subject: Searching For An Improved Smile? Take A Closer Look At Cosmetic Dentistry [print this page] When your smile isn't as impressive as you would hope it to be, you do have options. Cosmetic dentistry is aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and your smile. Many people often associate whitening or veneers with cosmetic dentistry, but your cosmetic dentist can provide so much more. When you seek the care of a cosmetic dentist, your appearance, your smile, even your self-esteem, and confidence will be improved. We know a beautiful smile when we see one, but there is no perfect smile. Each person has a difference perception of what is beautiful, and you and your dentist may have a different opinion than others. It is important to discover a smile you truly love, and when you do, communicate it to your dentist.
Modern advances in dentistry allow cosmetic procedures to range from a basic color correction to replacing missing teeth and everything in between. Some available cosmetic procedures include:
*Teeth whitening
*Fillings
*Dentures
*Dental Implants
*Orthodontics
*Tooth bonding
*Crowns and bridges
*Veneers
Your First Visit
To get the most positive results from your experience with your cosmetic dentist, be sure to communicate clearly your thoughts and ideas so that your dentist can get a proper understanding of what you want from your smile. Ask yourself the following questions to prepare yourself for your first cosmetic consultation:
*What shade of what do I want my teeth to be?
*Am I satisfied with the amount of teeth showing when my lips are relaxed and when I smile?
*Am I looking for perfectly aligned teeth or am I happy with slight variations?
*Am I happy with the amount of gum that shows when I smile?
You will meet with cosmetic dentist for a consultation, which will consist of a conventional evaluation and an esthetic evaluation. The conventional part of the consultation will consist of a physical examination of your teeth, gums, and bite. Your dentist will also take and evaluate your x-rays. The esthetic part of the consultation will be more subjective, as this is where you and your dentist will communicate about your hopes for your smile.
Brighten Your Smile with Teeth Whitening
Most teeth can be whitening. Today, there are numerous ways you can whiten your teeth-from at-home whitening to in-office procedures. External tooth whitening happens when vital teeth are bleached by direct contact with a safe and commonly used whitening agent. You can either whiten your smile at home with take-home whitening trays provided by your dentist, or with in-office whitening treatments. Yes, you can find whitening toothpastes and other kits at your local pharmacy, but the results are not as rewarding as those you receive with professionally dispensed whitening kits or in-office whitening treatments.
Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Implants
When a tooth is missing, a dental implant can be used to replace the roots of your lost tooth. A dental implant replaces a missing tooth and helps to maintain the bone support of the adjacent teeth, extending their life span. A dental implant, along with a crown placed on the implant, are used to improve the appearance of your smile when teeth are missing. Dental implants are considered a permanent procedure and can be expected to last many years, as they are the optimum choice for replacing missing teeth.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, talk to your cosmetic dentist in Bronxville and Yonkers for further consultation and treatment. With a proper consultation, your dentist will help create a plan that will significantly improve the appearance of your smile.