Cosmetic Dentistry: Your Smile

A Bright Smile and Even Teeth Will Take Years Off Your Appearance

As we age, our teeth suffer just like our skins. While teeth don't develop wrinkles, they can show the effects of age through discoloration and staining, visible erosion, cracking and chipping.

Also if you needed orthodontia as a child and never got it, you might notice your smile becoming more crooked or your bite more ragged.

On the list of things to worry about as you age, your smile might not be among the top ten. But just like wrinkled skin, grey, stained teeth can make you look older. And studies have shown that people with attractive smiles land better jobs, are held in higher regard, make a better first impression and in many instances make more money.

Another benefit is an increase in self-esteem and confidence that comes with a nice smile.

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way. From invisible braces to laser teeth whitening, you have many choices if you want to improve your dental appearance.

Orthodontia

Orthodontia no longer means a mouth full of iron appliances. There are various types of invisible straightening devices ranging from braces applied to the back of the teeth only, clear braces applied to the front or a series of simple tray-like devices that are worn only at night.

Orthodontia is not just for kids. As a matter of fact, adults seem to have quicker and better results than kids because they follow the rules better and are more motivated to get through the procedure with good results.

Orthodontia can be expensive, but your friendly orthodontist will likely to be able to offer you financing.

Dental Cosmetic Procedures

While orthodontia will straighten your smile, it will do nothing about cracks, chips or discoloration.

For that you need to look into cosmetic dentistry.

Probably the most common practice is teeth whitening. You can buy over the counter whiteners and toothpastes that will work on most of the problem.

Dentists offer a heavier duty bleaching solution - it actually made my teeth ache - that can achieve better results. But not all stains can be removed by bleach.

There are competing light bleaching systems, like BriteSmile that remove stains through the application of bright lights or lasers. There are also some consumer grade lightening systems, although their effectiveness is unclear.

The next step if bleaching doesn't help or if you want to cover defects such as cracks and chips is bonding.

Made or either resin or porcelain - which is longer lasting, but more expensive - the dentist applies what amount to covers to the front of your teeth. These are made from molds taken of you teeth so that they are shaped properly and are colored to a shade you and the dentist feel appropriate.

These are then glued or "bonded" to your existing teeth to give you an entirely new smile.

Resin bonds are cheaper, but stand up for less time than porcelain. Resin can also stain. Porcelain bonds should last a lifetime.

A lot of people can get away with just bonding their upper teeth, since the lower set is less visible when you smile.

There are other procedures that might be necessary as the result of trauma or disease, such a recapping all visible teeth or rebuilding your teeth with a dental appliance.

However cosmetic dentistry has progressed to the point that these procedures are becoming less necessary.

Ask your own dentist about cosmetic procedures. He will be able to most of them. Sometimes a specialist will be required and your dentist should be able to make the referral.

Don't forget your mouth in your quest for ageless beauty.

This article is for informational purposes only. It does not purport to offer medical advice.

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