Dazzling Smiles through Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
March 09, 2009 @ 09:18 PM — by unknown
With celebrities and their perfect smiles appearing everywhere, including magazine covers, the big screen, television, the internet, and even on the side of buses, it is not surprising that cosmetic dentistry treatments are becoming more and more popular.
Since the term cosmetic dentistry encompasses numerous dental treatments, you may be confused about not only what is available, but also which procedure is right for you. Below is a short overview of available cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments. There are various types of take-home teeth-whitening kits (from toothpastes to gels to strips). In-office teeth whitening, including Zoom!, BriteSmile, and Rembrandt, can be performed at your dentist's office or even in a kiosk at the mall.
Porcelain veneers have been likened to fake fingernails for your teeth. These ceramic shells are attached to the front of your teeth, creating a straight and uniform smile. Porcelain dental veneers are typically used to conceal cracks, chips, and gaps in your smile.
Dental bonding is a less-expensive option than porcelain veneers, but tackles the same types of dental problems. Instead of a full shell placed on a tooth, dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite to create the perfect smile.
Dental crowns are sometimes referred to as "caps." These dental restorations, which can be made of various types of metal, ceramic, or porcelain, are used to repair a badly decayed tooth.
Although most cosmetic dentistry procedures are not covered by insurance and can be quite expensive, many patients interested in treatments find ways to pay for the procedures. Financing companies offer plans specifically for dental work and many cosmetic dentists have partnered with financial institutions to provide financing options directly to their patients.
If you are interested in improving your smile through cosmetic dentistry, find a skilled cosmetic dentist in your area. Discuss with the dentist what you want to achieve and what your budget is. The right dentist will help you find a treatment plan that will suit your needs.