3 Cosmetic Dental Services You Should Consider for Summer

If your teeth are gapped or crooked, your smile might look less sophisticated than you want it to be, which can disrupt your confidence. Fortunately, orthodontic care for adults is more convenient and streamlined than ever before, allowing patients to correct long-term issues faster and more comfortably than in years past.

By using 3D imaging technology, dentists can take digital impressions of your teeth, which helps them to design customized orthodontic aligners that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. Many modern aligners are also removable, making it easier to eat during the day and brush your teeth effectively at night, so your orthodontic care doesn't interfere with your daily routine.

There have even been advances in traditional metal braces, with more and more dentists using thermal wires designed to soften when exposed to cooler temperatures, allowing patients to temporarily relieve orthodontic pain.

Although orthodontic care is considered by some to be a cosmetic procedure, it also helps to prevent dental problems, since teeth that sit in alignment are less likely to develop decay, dental fractures, and uneven wear. By straightening your teeth before summer comes, you might be able to enjoy a healthier check-up in the fall.

As time marches on, your teeth can develop severe staining from foods, drinks, old amalgam dental fillings, and even dental decay. Fortunately, dentists can whisk away even severe stains with teeth whitening.

During teeth whitening, dentists apply special carbamide peroxide gels to the teeth, which spark a chemical reaction within the dental enamel. During this reaction, small tubules are released from the pores of dental enamel, allowing whitening agents to penetrate deeper into the tooth, lightening intrinsic stains.

In addition to allowing whitening agents to lighten the surfaces and interiors of teeth, dentists can also use special polishing compounds to remove extrinsic staining and tartar remnants, creating a smoother, whiter tooth surface.

These days, dentists can either create customized whitening trays for patients to wear at home, or complete whitening chair side, giving patients the opportunity to customize their care. Some dentists also offer special tooth whitening treatments that are activated by UV light that can lighten teeth several shades in a single visit.

If you are interested in whitening your teeth, keep in mind that there are a few side effects to removing stains. When whitening gel moves through the enamel to whiten underlying dentin, it increases the blood flow inside of the tooth, resulting in temporary sensitivity. However, dentists can alleviate sensitivity by prescribing certain toothpastes or using anti-sensitivity varnishes before treatment.

Chipped, cracked, or mottled teeth can make your friends wonder what happened to your smile, but with modern dental bonding, your smile can look as good as new before that next barbecue. Dental bonding agents are made from ceramic compounds suspended in special resins that bond to the dental enamel, making it easy for dentists to rebuild your teeth.

Composite resins are made in a variety of different shades and opacity strengths and can be used to correct chips, gaps, or improperly shaped teeth. The best part about dental bonding is that restorations are cured on-site and typically don't require an anesthetic.

Cosmetic dentistry is the ultimate combination of science and art, which is why you shouldn't trust your smile to just anyone. Our dentist, P.A. Daniel Jr., D.D.S., focuses on helping each and every patient enjoy the kind of personalized, state-of-the-art care his clients have come to expect. To start your journey towards a more beautiful smile, give our office a call today.