4 Things A Cosmetic Dentist Can Do For You

You probably visit the dentist twice a year for your checkup and routine cleaning. It's important to see a dentist to take care of your oral health. However, a dentist can do much more for you than simply cleaning your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry allows you to fix things you don't like about your teeth. You can whiten your teeth, repair past damage, and get a more even smile. Here are four things a cosmetic dentist can do for you:

1. Fix misshapen teeth.

Everyone's teeth are unique, and no two teeth are the same. Unfortunately, sometimes people are self-conscious about the size and shape of their teeth. If you have one or more teeth that you feel is misshapen, cosmetic dentistry can help you. Veneers are the perfect solution for this situation. Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Veneers are an easy and permanent way to alter the shape of your teeth.

2. Whiten discolored teeth.

Many things can darken your teeth over time. Acidic or dark beverages such as wine, coffee, and beer can stain your teeth. Some medications can cause staining as well. Other discoloration is a simple byproduct of age; as people get older, the yellow dentin in their teeth begins to show through the enamel. Your cosmetic dentist can whiten your teeth in-office, using highly effective bleaching solutions. Teeth whitening is quick and effective, and it can give you dramatic or natural results, depending on your desires.

3. Repair chipped or cracked teeth.

Teeth may sometimes become chipped or cracked as a result of trauma. This isn't necessarily a dental emergency unless the damage is causing you pain, but many people find the appearance of chipped teeth embarrassing. Your cosmetic dentist can repair small chips in your teeth using composite bonding. They will apply a tooth-colored piece of resin composite to the chip, and the repair will be indistinguishable from your natural tooth. Larger chips and cracks on the surface of your tooth can be fixed using dental veneers.

4. Close gaps between teeth.

The size of the gap between your teeth will determine the method your cosmetic dentist uses to fix it. Small gaps can be closed by applying veneers to mask their appearance. Alternatively, your dentist may prescribe clear aligners or braces to close the gap. This can straighten crooked teeth, so it's a good option to consider if that's another concern. Large gaps that appear as a result of missing or extracted teeth may be remedied using partial dentures or dental implants.