When most people think of visiting the dentist, it’s often in response to a chipped tooth, a painful molar, or the need for a filling. While these are common reasons, there’s another area of dentistry that’s equally important but often overlooked: advanced cosmetic dentistry.
Advanced cosmetic dentistry combines the latest techniques to enhance both the appearance and functionality of your teeth. It goes beyond teeth whitening, addressing complex dental issues to create a natural-looking smile.
A confident smile can open doors, boost self-confidence, and positively influence social and professional interactions. As actress and singer Connie Stevens famously said, “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.”
Cosmetic dentistry is not just about aesthetics, though appearance plays a significant role. The way you feel about your smile can deeply impact how you see yourself. If you’ve ever hidden your smile in photos or felt self-conscious when laughing, you understand how much your smile affects your confidence.
Research from the University of South Australia revealed that smiling can activate brain chemicals associated with positive emotions, essentially tricking our brains into feeling happier.
Ready to discover the power of a great smile? It might just change the way you see yourself — and how the world sees you.
So, if a smile can really make us feel happier, more confident, and make us look more inviting in social situations, what can a dentist do to improve it? Here are a few advanced dental procedures that you might want to consider:
Gone are the days when you had to have metal brackets fitted to your teeth to straighten them. Now, clear aligner treatments like Invisalign gently adjust your teeth into place, without the need for the orthodontic headgear that your parents may have had to wear. They’re removable, which makes them easier to clean and far more convenient when you’re having something to eat.
If you’re missing a tooth, dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking solution and are designed to look exactly like your natural teeth. They not only improve your smile but also make a big difference to the functionality of your teeth.
A dental crown is a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. You may need a crown if you have a large cavity that cannot be treated with a standard filling or a cracked or chipped tooth that requires more extensive restoration. Crowns are also commonly used to support dental bridges or cover dental implants.
One of the quickest ways to transform a smile is professional teeth whitening treatments. Teeth whitening can remove stains that have been caused over time by coffee, smoking, red wine, and certain medications. While there are over-the-counter options, a professional teeth whitening treatment from your dentist can produce more significant results and in a short space of time (often in under an hour).
Even the best dental work needs maintenance – here are some things you can do to help keep your smile dazzling.
1. Are cosmetic dental treatments safe?
Yes, when performed by a qualified professional (like our team at Eriks Dental Group), cosmetic dentistry is very safe. Your dentist will complete a full evaluation, including asking about any medications you are taking.
2. How long do results from teeth whitening last?
This all depends on your diet and your oral hygiene habits. In most cases, results can last from several months to over a year. It’s recommended to get maintenance treatments to maintain the brightness.
3. Is cosmetic dentistry only for adults?
Yes and No. Some cosmetic procedures are geared toward adults, while others, like braces or aligners, can be suited for children aged 9 up – your dentist can advise what’s appropriate based on age and dental maturity.
4. Will insurance cover my cosmetic procedures?
This really depends on your insurance provider. Generally, cosmetic treatments aren’t covered by insurance unless there’s a functional reason. It’s best to discuss this with your dental insurance provider so that you can understand what you are liable for and what they will cover.
5. Can cosmetic treatments fix gaps between teeth?
Yes, options like bonding, veneers, or aligners can address spacing issues in your mouth without the need for traditional braces.
6. How do I care for veneers or bonded teeth?
It’s important that you treat them like natural teeth. Make sure that you brush and floss them, and avoid biting hard objects. It’s recommended to schedule regular check-ups to ensure your oral health remains in good condition.
7. What’s the recovery time for most cosmetic procedures?
Most cosmetic dental treatments involve minimal downtime, though recovery can vary depending on the complexity of the treatment. Treatments like whitening and bonding typically require no recovery time, while more involved procedures, such as dental implants, may require a few days of rest.
As a trusted Fort Lauderdale dental practice with a team of highly qualified dental specialists, we are proud to serve the South Florida community.
At Eriks Dental Group, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Our experienced team offers a full range of cosmetic dentistry services and provides personalized guidance throughout your treatment, from initial consultation to final results.
If you’ve been thinking about enhancing your smile, give our friendly team a call at 954-463-5051 or request a dental appointment at your convenience.
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