Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures: What You Should Know

A cosmetic dentist can give you a bright, healthy smile. This provider can perform procedures that improve the appearance of your teeth and gums. Knowing the cosmetic dental treatments can help you make informed decisions about your next appointment. Here are the details about the common procedures your cosmetic dentist can provide.

Enamel bonding

People with chipped or discolored teeth can get this procedure from a cosmetic dentist. The bonding material is the same one used for dental fillings. It is moldable, allowing the dentist to fit the needs of each tooth. The effect of this procedure lasts for a limited time. The patient may need to come back for re-applications.

Dental whitening

In-office teeth whitening is a popular procedure. It is for individuals who want a quick way to enhance their smile. Dental whitening is a one-visit treatment for people who want an affordable way to have brighter teeth. This treatment is possible at home. But the results are better if a cosmetic dentist performs it at the clinic. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products do not yield the results most individuals want.

Dental veneers

These thin, custom-fit shells are the secret to a Hollywood smile. The common material for veneers is porcelain. The cosmetic dentist will take impressions of the patient’s teeth to achieve the right fit. Shaving off a thin layer of the front surface of the teeth will make the shells fit and stick better. The patient will wear temporary veneers until the lab finishes creating the permanent ones. These restorations are good for teeth with deep, dark stains and fractures.

Enamel abrasion

The cosmetic dentist can recommend this procedure to remove superficial stains. This treatment uses a micro-abrasion machine with a fine pumice. After the visit, the patient’s teeth can be rid of coffee, wine, tobacco, and soda stains. Remember that this cosmetic dental treatment is not effective for deep dental staining.

Clear aligners

This type of dental straightening system is effective for kids, teens, and adults. Clear aligners can straighten teeth without the pain of dealing with sharp wires and brackets. Teens and adults prefer these aligners to traditional metal braces. These dental devices are comfortable and almost invisible. A cosmetic dentist will suggest for mild to moderate alignment issues while keeping the smile intact. The individual will not experience dental pain while going through the treatment.

Before the cosmetic dental procedure

Schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist for a consultation. After determining the right cosmetic dental treatment, the patient must begin preparing. The dentist will perform some tests. Creating the custom-fit treatment plan will come next. The dentist will then highlight the important points of the treatment. The following are some of them:

• Plan well for the recovery period.
• Take some time off class or work.
• Make necessary arrangements before the treatment day.
• Follow the cosmetic dentist’s orders.
• Avoid strenuous activities if necessary.

Aftercare

Going through the right cosmetic dental procedure can be life-changing. It can help increase achievements in one’s personal and work life. Proper aftercare is as important as the treatment itself. Below are some aftercare tips to consider after a procedure from an experienced cosmetic dentist.

Maintaining one’s new smile at home is important after the treatment. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste if the patient has porcelain veneers or crowns. Daily brushing and flossing are necessary to keep the new smile in top shape. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help keep the mouth free from bad breath and infections.

Be mindful of the patient’s habits and diet. Reducing one’s alcohol and tobacco consumption can help speed up the patient’s recovery. Choose alcohol-free mouthwash. Research shows that alcohol can weaken the adhesive in cosmetic dental procedures. Avoid eating hard foods and stop nibbling on hard objects like pens, as these activities can break porcelain crowns and veneers. Wearing a nightguard can protect the treated teeth from wear and damage if the patient has bruxism.

Include the cosmetic dentist in the aftercare routine. Patients should attend follow-up appointments to allow the dentist to see how the treated mouth is doing. Regular professional dental cleanings help maintain the results of cosmetic dental procedures. Seeing the cosmetic dentist can ensure proper healing and prevent the onset of infections.

Understanding the procedures your cosmetic dentist provides can help you prepare well

Making informed decisions about your procedures can motivate you to maintain the results. Improving your smile with these treatments can be expensive, so knowing them well can motivate you to care for your new teeth and gums. It can be difficult, but you will do well with proper guidance from the treatment team. Working with your cosmetic dentist can enhance your oral health and quality of life.

Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.

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