While there is no such thing as a bad smile, we understand that some patients may feel self-conscious about their teeth, are unhappy with how they appear, or are simply interested in making improvements. This is where cosmetic dentistry comes in. Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth. There are many different procedures that fall under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry, and the right one for you will depend on your individual needs and goals.
On this page, we’ll explore the different types of cosmetic dentistry offered in our Leander, TX office and how to choose the right procedure for you!
The Impact of Smile Aesthetics
Before we dive into the world of cosmetic dentistry, it’s important to understand just how important your smile is. Your smile is one of the first things that people will notice about you, and it can have a big impact on your life. A study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that:
- 96% of adults believe that an appealing smile makes a person more attractive
- 74% of adults believe that an unattractive smile reduces their chances of career success
These statistics show just how important your smile can be in your personal and professional life. If you’re not happy with your smile, cosmetic dentistry could change your life!
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening ranks among the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. It’s also one of the most straightforward and affordable options. At our office, we offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening treatments.
- In-office teeth whitening is the faster option, and you’ll see results in just one visit! We use a professional-strength whitening gel and a special light to achieve dramatic results.
- Take-home teeth whitening is a great option if you want to whiten your teeth at your own pace. We’ll provide you with custom-fitted whitening trays and a professional-strength bleaching gel. You’ll use the trays and gel at home to achieve your desired level of whiteness.
Porcelain Veneers
Known for their ability to completely transform your smile, porcelain veneers are one of the most versatile offerings in cosmetic dentistry. They are thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-made to fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. Once sized correctly, they are bonded to the teeth to conceal imperfections—including chips, cracks, stains, and gaps. Veneers are also a popular choice for people who want to achieve the appearance of a straighter, more uniform smile without the use of orthodontics. Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Bonding & Contouring
Bonding and contouring are two cosmetic dentistry procedures that can be used to correct minor imperfections in your smile.
- Bonding involves the use of a tooth-colored resin to repair chips, cracks, and gaps in your teeth. The resin is applied to your teeth and then hardened with a special light. Bonding can also be used to change the shape of your teeth or make them appear longer.
- Contouring, on the other hand, involves the removal of small amounts of tooth enamel to change the shape or length of your teeth.
Smile Makeover
A smile makeover is a comprehensive treatment plan that is designed to address all of your dental concerns and help you achieve your ideal smile. Smile makeovers can be customized to meet your specific smile goals. They can include any combination of the procedures we’ve discussed above, as well as a variety of restorative procedures.
The best way to determine which procedures are right for you is to schedule a consultation at our office. Our doctors will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth and develop a treatment plan that is tailored specifically for you.
Contact our office today to discover how we can bring your dream smile to life at 183 Family Dentistry!
