Know the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures in Harker Heights

Not everyone has perfect teeth and a confident smile. That’s where cosmetic dentistry can help. True to the name, cosmetic dentistry is all about enhancing your smile and fixing aesthetic issues that may not immediately affect your teeth and gums but impact your self-esteem. No matter the concern, there is a treatment available to fix it. In this guide, we will talk about the common cosmetic dentistry procedures performed by cosmetic dentists in Harker Heights. 

1. Teeth whitening: In general, teeth whitening procedures can be divided into two categories. The first one has at-home whitening kits, which have custom trays and a bleaching agent. You are required to wear the trays with the whitening solution overnight or at least 30 minutes a day for two weeks. The outcomes are usually excellent for many patients with mildly stained teeth. For more discoloration and staining concerns, in-office whitening procedures are better, which are performed by dentists. You will have to return once the effects start to wear off, or your teeth get stained again.
2. Clear aligners: If you have mild to moderate misalignment issues or your bite doesn’t fit, you can consider clear aligners. While Invisalign® remains a popular brand name, there are other options too. Invisalign® treatment involves sets of clear aligners that are customized for each patient and help fix alignment issues. A great alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is an in-demand treatment in Harker Heights.
3. Veneers: Dental veneers are like shells that are fixed to the front surface of the teeth. Veneers are mostly used for cosmetic reasons and are an excellent choice for patients who want to whiten their teeth beyond the natural shade. The procedure requires removing a part of the enamel and fixing the veneers, and the entire treatment can be completed in two appointments. Veneers are also ideal for fixing oddly shaped and gapped teeth. While the shells are not permanent and require replacement after a decade or more, removing enamel is a permanent step. Talk to your dentist in detail before you decide to go for veneers.
4. Dental bonding: Bonding is a common procedure to enhance the smile. The treatment involves applying tooth-colored resin material, which can fix many concerns, such as chips, cracks, and discoloration. Patients who are unlikely to benefit from standard whitening procedures can consider bonding to fix stained teeth. Bonding can also help change the shape of your teeth and is also used in restoration dentistry.
5. Dental implants: While implants are often considered a part of restorative dentistry, the treatment also offers cosmetic benefits. Implants are like posts that are placed in the jawbone, and once the jawbone heals, these posts work as the foundation for restorations. Dental implants are considered better than dentures, and although an implant is not exactly a replacement tooth, restorations are often sturdier and offer better comfort. Dental implants require surgery, but the outcomes are permanent and better than standard dentures and bridges. Implant-supported bridges don’t require buffing healthy teeth.

Consult a cosmetic dentist today!

You may feel curious about the options, but only your cosmetic dentist can offer insights on what may work best for your smile-related concerns. They will do a detailed exam and may order imaging tests for certain procedures before suggesting a treatment. With cosmetic dentistry, you must remember that most fixes are not forever. Whether teeth whitening or veneers, you will need touchups and replacement, respectively. Implants don’t require replacement, but restorations do. Weigh the pros and cons of each procedure and consider one that offers better results.

Also, selecting the right cosmetic dentistry clinic in Harker Heights makes all the difference – Do your research and find one that has expert dentists and offers a wide range of treatments.