If you aren’t entirely confident about the appearance of your smile, you will be pleased to know there are a variety of options to upgrade the current state of your teeth. However, you want to ensure that undergoing cosmetic dental treatment is in your best interest. So, is cosmetic dentistry safe? Continue reading to learn more from your dentist in Kittanning.
Are There Risks with Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is primarily intended to improve the appearance of teeth. As long as you are under the care of a trained professional, cosmetic procedures are safe for the majority of patients, but not every treatment is right for everyone. That’s why it’s so important your dentist examines your mouth beforehand and gives you an honest assessment of which procedures would be ideal for you.
Some cosmetic services can pose a risk if an underlying oral health issue is present. For instance, if a veneer is placed over a tooth with untreated decay, this can make the tooth more difficult to repair later. However, your dentist will plan to address this type of problem before getting started with any sort of cosmetic upgrade.
What Cosmetic Services Are Available?
Here are some of the most common treatments in cosmetic dentistry:
Teeth Whitening
You don’t usually get the results you’re looking for with over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Professional whitening is a safe option and much more effective. With an at-home whitening kit, you are provided with custom mouth trays and bleaching gel. All you need to do is follow the directions properly and you’ll be sporting a whiter smile in two weeks.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of dental-grade porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to cover up all sorts of aesthetic flaws, including:
- Gaps
- Stains
- Chips
- Cracks
- Undersized/misshapen teeth
- Slightly crooked teeth
During your initial visit, you receive a short oral exam and then digital imaging software will show you what your new smile will look like. In your second visit, a very small portion of your enamel is removed to make room for your veneers. You’ll wear temporary veneers while your long-term set is created in a lab based on an impression of your teeth that the dentist has taken. During your third appointment, your veneers are secured using a composite resin and your new smile is ready to make its debut!
Direct Bonding
If you have minimal chips, cracks, stains, wear, or misalignment, cosmetic bonding is an excellent and affordable option. Your dentist will use a tooth-colored composite resin and sculpt it to your tooth. This procedure typically takes less than an hour and is best suited for smiles that only need a few teeth enhanced.
Is cosmetic dentistry safe? It certainly is when you count on a skilled dentist, making it a booming industry. Schedule a consultation to formulate your personalized plan and then you will get to show off your new-and-improved smile soon!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller has been working for the smiles of his patients for more than four decades. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh and is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Voller also has a mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry in Kittanning, he offers the treatments referenced above as well as no-prep veneers, metal-free restorations, gum recontouring, BOTOX, and Juvéderm. Schedule a consultation on his website or call (724) 543-4948.