When you look at yourself in the mirror, are you happy with how you look? If your smile is causing you to feel self-conscious, there are a variety of cosmetic solutions available to help you achieve the pearly whites you’re proud to show off. However, you want to ensure that cosmetic dentistry is in your best interest, and this includes considering the safety risks. Continue reading to learn more about the safety of cosmetic dentistry and the different types of treatments that are available.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?
Cosmetic dentistry is made to enhance the appearance of your teeth. Once you are under the care of a trained professional, most cosmetic dental procedures are perfectly safe for the majority of patients. That being said, not every treatment is right for every patient. That’s why you must attend a consultation with your dentist to discuss your goals. At this time, your dentist will examine your smile and give you an honest assessment of which procedures may or may not be ideal for you.
Some cosmetic treatments can pose a risk if there are underlying dental issues. For instance, if you have a veneer placed on a tooth with existing decay, it can make the tooth more difficult to treat in the future. However, your dentist will plan to address any issues like this before beginning cosmetic treatment.
Which Cosmetic Treatments Are Available?
- Veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain placed over the front-facing surfaces of the teeth to cover up cosmetic imperfections. They are used to correct teeth that are:
- Gapped
- Stained
- Chipped
- Cracked
- Undersized
- Misshapen
- Slightly Misaligned
- Teeth Whitening: One of the most common complaints people have of their teeth is discoloration. With in-office or take-home professional teeth whitening, your smile can be brightened up to 8 shades whiter.
- Invisalign: If your teeth are misaligned, you don’t need to endure a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. Invisalign uses clear plastic trays to slowly shift your teeth into their rightful locations. The best part is that they are nearly invisible!
- Dental Bonding: If you have minimal chips, gaps, stains, or cracks, cosmetic dental bonding can make an excellent, affordable option. Your dentist will use tooth-colored composite resin and sculpt it to your tooth. This procedure usually takes less than an hour and is cost-effective.
- Smile Makeovers: A smile makeover combines restorative and cosmetic treatments to completely transform the appearance of your smile.
- BOTOX: If you are bothered by fine lines and wrinkles, BOTOX can give you the subtle difference you’re looking for.
- Gum Recontouring: If you feel that your smile is “too gummy,” gum recontouring could be the solution. Using a soft tissue laser, your dentist will quickly and carefully reshape your gumline, removing excess gum tissue that is covering up your beautiful enamel. This leaves patients with a more proportionate smile.
Cosmetic dentistry has its benefits, but it isn’t for everyone. If you are unhappy with how your smile looks, schedule a consultation with your dentist. This way, you can discuss the goals you have for your teeth and put together a plan to best meet your needs.
About the Author
Dr. Kolade Akinwande earned her dental doctorate from the Howard University College of Dentistry. Since then, she has become certified in Invisalign, oral sedation, BOTOX/fillers, and Zoom! Whitening. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Maryland Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, and more! To learn more about cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule a consultation at her office in Waldorf, visit her website or call (301) 843-0225.