There are many cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you achieve your dream smile. Read here for a patient's guide to cosmetic dentistry in Locust Grove.

Around 82% of Americans in the 20-34 year-old age group have decayed/missing teeth, or have had their teeth filled. Most of those people likely aren't happy with their smiles. It's hard to feel good about your smile when your teeth are less-than-perfect. A radiant smile is within your reach. 

Cosmetic dentistry is a go-to solution for countless individuals looking to improve their smiles. A stunning smile can boost your confidence and make a significant impact on your overall attractiveness. Read on to find out how your dentist in Locust Grove, OK, can help transform your smile.

Tooth Whitening Is Quick and Easy

If you have healthy teeth but aren't thrilled with their color, you'll want to discuss teeth whitening with your dental care provider. Teeth whitening is quick and effective. It's one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental procedures. Of all the cosmetic dental procedures, this is one most people can schedule during their lunch hour or after work.

Also called bleaching, tooth whitening is a unique process that lightens the color of your teeth. The whitening solution removes stains and discoloration from your teeth.

You have two options. One is to purchase over-the-counter products. The other is professional teeth whitening at your dentist's office. Professional options are faster and provide more reliable results.

When you choose the professional option, your dentist or dental hygienist will apply a whitening gel to your teeth. After applying the gel, they'll use a special light to activate it.

Once you've completed the whitening process, you can help prolong the results by avoiding tobacco, coffee, and tea. Maintaining good oral health can also help you keep your teeth white. 

In-office whitening procedures are safe and can significantly improve the appearance of your smile. If you have unfilled cavities or other unresolved dental issues, your dentist will wait until your teeth are healthy before scheduling this treatment.

Dental Bonding Is a Popular Cosmetic Dental Procedure

Another option your dentist may offer is dental bonding. Cosmetic dentists use bonding to address a range of dental imperfections.

The procedure begins with your dentist selecting the best color resin. The color should be one that closely matches your natural teeth.

To begin the dental bonding procedure, your dentist will prepare the tooth's surface. First, the dentist roughens the surface of the tooth and then applies a conditioning liquid. Preparing the surface helps make sure the bonding material sticks to the tooth.

After applying the resin, the dentist will use a bright light to harden the resin. Once hardened, the resin conceals chips, gaps, and discoloration.

Dental bonding is an excellent choice if you need minor cosmetic enhancements. Bonding may not last as long as veneers or crowns (two solutions we'll discuss next). It's possible you'll need to schedule appointments for touch-ups over time.

If you and your dentist decide to move forward with bonding, there are things you can do to better care for bonded teeth. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is critical.

Avoid chewing and biting hard objects, like ice and hard candy. Limit foods and drinks known to stain teeth. Following your dentist's care tips will help ensure your bonding procedure lasts for a long time.

Have You Heard About Veneers?

Veneers are another popular cosmetic dentistry option. Patients and dentists like veneers because they can address a wide range of dental imperfections.

Veneers are thin shells that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. They look like tiny, thin shells. Porcelain is the material usually used to make veneers.

Before your dentist can determine if you're a good candidate for veneers, they'll want to schedule an initial consultation. When you're ready to move forward, you'll come back to begin the procedure.

First, your dentist will prepare your teeth. Part of the preparation includes removing a small amount of the enamel from each tooth's surface. Veneers must have a surface to adhere to, and this part of the procedure creates that surface.

Your dentist then creates a mold from putty and takes an impression of your teeth. Once the mold hardens, it will be sent to the lab that will create your veneer.

At your final veneer appointment, the dentist places the veneers on your teeth. Voila, you have a perfect, natural-looking smile.

If your dentist determines that you're not a good candidate for veneers, they may talk to you about crowns.

A crown is another dental procedure designed to help improve the appearance of your teeth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged tooth. Dentists use crowns to restore broken, decayed, and worn-down teeth.

Introducing the Smile Makeover

While most of the options we've talked about so far are single procedures, a smile makeover can include several different dental procedures. Smile makeovers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dentists can customize these procedures to fit each patient's needs and expectations.

To make that happen, your dentist will meet with you to gather information about what you're hoping to achieve with your makeover. During the initial assessment, the dentist evaluates several factors, including facial appearance, skin tone, and hair color.

The dentist will evaluate your teeth, including color, shape, and the way they fit in the structure of your mouth. Your dentist will also look at your gum tissue and the shape of your lips.

Procedures your dentist may offer as part of your smile makeover include:

• Teeth whitening
• Bonding
• Veneers
• Dental implants

Whether you decide on one or all of these cosmetic dental procedures, when your smile makeover is complete, you'll have a brand-new, dazzling smile. 

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help You Smile Brighter

When you're not excited about smiling because you just don't love your smile, it's time to learn more about cosmetic dentistry. One or more of the dental procedures we've covered can transform your smile. 

Dental Arts is here to help you determine which procedures will give you the smile of your dreams. We offer warm compassionate care and make it easy and convenient for you to schedule dental visits.

If you're looking for a premier dentist in Locust Grove, OK, we'd love to meet you. Reach out today to book your appointment.