There are two main categories of procedures when someone is looking to get a natural smile makeover. Keep reading to learn about the most popular procedures and which ones might be a good fit.
Restorative procedures
Many people seeking a smile makeover have teeth in need of procedures to restore their function and form. Here are a few of the most common ones.
Implants
People with one missing tooth or an entire arch of missing teeth can get a whole new look with dental implants. This tooth replacement procedure is a long-term solution and can also be an alternative to dentures.
Bridges
Two or more crowns fused together create a bridge able to span the gap caused by missing teeth. Anchored to neighboring teeth, a bridge can blend very well and look natural. It can also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting and causing further damage.
Crowns
Teeth that have suffered more intense decay or damage can be covered by a natural-looking tooth structure called a crown. A crown covers the entire tooth, starting at the gum line, and is made of high-quality materials that should last about 10 years.
Fillings
Teeth with minor damage or decay can typically be restored with fillings. The commonly used composite material is tooth-colored and can be blended to match the color of the tooth and be undetectable to the naked eye.
Cosmetic procedures
Even a completely healthy mouth can benefit from cosmetic procedures popular among those seeking a natural smile makeover.
Veneers
Teeth that have been severely discolored, are misshapen or have a large gap in between them can most often be fixed with dental veneers. These wafer-thin covers, typically made of composite resin or porcelain, do not require much alteration of the natural tooth. Veneers can also usually be placed with the patient experiencing little or no pain.
Whitening
The effects of a whitening treatment would be noticeable on just about every set of teeth. Although enamel is hard, it can still be stained over time by things like dark-colored food and beverages, smoking or poor dental hygiene. A whitening treatment is able to reduce the surface stains on the enamel of the teeth, and the effects of a single treatment can last up to 24 months.
Contouring
When a tooth is uneven or slightly misshapen, a sanding tool can be used to adjust or contour its shape. When even one tooth appears longer than the rest, it can cause the entire smile to seem disproportionate. A simple procedure removing small amounts of enamel is all it can take to completely change the look of a smile.
Conclusion
All types of teeth can benefit from a natural smile makeover. Whether teeth are damaged and need to be restored or are completely healthy but are not entirely aesthetically appealing, a dental professional should be able to recommend the treatments required to make a patient proud of their smile.
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