It may be time to see a professional if you’re tired of trying to hide your smile or fed up with costly dental gimmicks that fail to deliver. We have compiled a list of 6 ways you can make your smile look better.
In the past, patients were very limited in the ways they could correct their teeth. There have been many recent developments in treatments and procedures in cosmetic dentistry. Regardless of your dental issues, you have options.
Six best ways to make your smile look better with cosmetic dentistry
Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening products can give you pearly whites in record time. If you have discolored teeth or unsightly stains then teeth whitening may be an excellent option for you. Whitening can erase years of abuse from common culprits. These culprits include wine, coffee, cigarettes, and other causes of surface stains.
If whitening strips aren’t your preference then there are several other whitening treatments available. Whitening trays, toothpaste, and gels are available over the counter. You have to apply the products multiple times and leave them on for long periods of time.
If you’d like a quicker solution, take home kits from our office can offer drastic results. Many dentists do not recommend in-office whitening for safety reasons. Our take home kits have a higher concentration of bleaching agents. They are left on for a shorter amount of time.
The whitening procedure works well for patients who want whiter teeth through professional whitening treatments at home.
Cosmetic veneers have been placed on this woman’s front six teeth to replace enamel that had been worn off from nighttime grinding.
Braces can make your smile look better non invasively
If your crooked or misaligned teeth are all you see in the mirror then it’s time to take action. Braces are very effective in aligning the teeth and perfecting your smile.
It’s important to note that braces are not a quick solution. Depending on your dental issues, it can often take over a year for braces to perfect your smile.
There is also a lot of ongoing maintenance involved with braces. You will need to visit your orthodontist on a regular basis to have the braces tightened or new bands put on. While the upkeep is substantial, it is all worth it in the end. You will have straight teeth and a beautiful smile that will last forever.
Invisalign
Essentially, Invisalign provides similar results to braces. The teeth will align properly once the treatment ends. Invisalign is a better option for patients who want their dental appliances to be discreet. The aligners are clear and are custom made to fit over your existing teeth.
Another perk of Invisalign is that the ongoing maintenance is minimal. You also don’t have to worry about avoiding specific foods since the aligners are removed prior to eating.
While Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces, it also comes with more responsibility. You must wear the aligners 22 hours per day and only remove them to brush your teeth or eat. Failure to wear the aligners can cause the teeth to shift and prolong the treatment time.
If the aligners are lost or misplaced this can also become costly as replacement costs can add up quickly.
Dental implants
Gaps caused by missing teeth can be corrected with dental implants. A dental implant acts as an artificial root. It is surgically placed into the gum and provides a strong foundation for the false tooth.
Typically a crown is placed on the implant. The crown is made to blend in with the surrounding teeth. The size, shape, and color are all taken into account when selecting a crown. A dental implant can fill an unsightly gap and leave you with a genuine smile.
Porcelain veneers are a great way to make my smile look better
Interested in correcting several teeth? Porcelain veneers are a great option. Porcelain veneers are custom made based on your preferences. You’ll be able to select the appropriate size, shape, and color.
Careful consideration is taken into account by your dentist to ensure the veneers appear natural and fit properly. They work well to hide broken or chipped teeth. They also are a good choice to hide teeth that are stained or discolored. The natural teeth are slightly filed down to remove tooth enamel.
The veneers are then placed over the teeth. Once you receive your new set of veneers, smiling will come naturally.
This Chicago teacher wanted to look better for her high school class reunion. We made that happen!
Routine cleanings
Your oral health has a significant impact on your smile. Nothing will make your smile look better than a good dental cleaning. It’s recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice per year for dental cleanings. During your visits, the dentist will examine your teeth to see if there are any issues that need to be addressed.
Early detection of cavities or gum disease requires prompt dental care. This is why it is so important that you are seen by your dentist on a regular basis.
Diets full of great foods that stain teeth yield stained teeth. Routine cleanings can remove stains and plaque buildup. Over time, plaque mixes with saliva and turns into tartar that tends to collect near the gumline. This tartar is very difficult to remove without the proper tools. Cleanings help keep your teeth clean. You should regularly drink water to cleanse your mouth.
The treatments can remove the unsightly tartar and leave your teeth looking clean and well taken care of.
Am I a good candidate for these treatments?
Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Fondriest will allow you to go over your dental options. An exam is necessary in order to determine whether you’re a good candidate for the treatment. Dr. Fondriest will take great care in understanding your needs and ultimate dental goals.
How can I schedule an appointment to make my smile look better?
A smile transformation plan can enhance your overall appearance and give your confidence a boost. Our office is located in Lake Forest, IL and we see patients from the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods. Contact us today at (847) 234-0517 in order to take the first step to make your smile look better through dental work.