If you aren’t entirely confident about the appearance of your smile, you will be pleased to know there are a variety of options that can upgrade the current state of your teeth. However, you want to ensure that undergoing cosmetic dental treatment is in your best interest. So, is cosmetic dentistry safe? Continue reading to learn more from your cosmetic dentist in Rancho Bernardo.
Are There Risks with Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is primarily intended to improve the appearance of teeth. As long as you are under the care of a trained professional, cosmetic procedures are safe for the majority of patients, but not every treatment is right for everyone. That’s why it’s so important your dentist examines your mouth beforehand and gives you an honest assessment of which procedures would be ideal for you.
Some cosmetic services can pose a risk if an underlying oral health issue is present. For instance, if a veneer is placed over a tooth with untreated decay, this can make the tooth more difficult to repair later. However, your dentist will plan to address this type of problem before getting started with any sort of cosmetic upgrade.
What Cosmetic Services Are Available?
Here are some of the most common treatments in cosmetic dentistry:
Teeth Whitening
You don’t usually get the results you’re looking for with over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Professional whitening is a safe option and much more effective. You can choose between an in-office application or at-home whitening trays. Those who select in-office whitening will see results in about an hour, while patients who opt for at-home whitening will be able to achieve a brighter smile in a couple of weeks.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of dental grade porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to cover up all sorts of aesthetic flaws, including:
- Gaps
- Stains
- Chips
- Cracks
- Undersized/misshapen teeth
- Slightly crooked teeth
During your initial visit, a small portion of the enamel is removed to make room for the veneers. An impression is then taken and sent off to the dental lab where your permanent ones are crafted while you wear a temporary set. In just a few weeks, they are permanently secured to the teeth, and you leave the office with a beautiful smile makeover!
Dental Bonding
If you have minimal chips, cracks, stains, wear, or misalignment, cosmetic dental bonding is an excellent and affordable option. Your dentist will use a tooth-colored composite resin and sculpt it to your tooth. This procedure typically takes less than an hour and is best suited for smiles that only need a few teeth enhanced.
Is cosmetic dentistry safe? It certainly is when you count on a skilled dentist which has made it a booming industry. Schedule a consultation to formulate your personalized plan and then you will get to show off your new-and-improved smile soon!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard earned his dental doctorate from UCLA, and he went on to be the first dentist in North San Diego County to become an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Howard has completed thousands of hours of continuing education to stay current with techniques and technology. If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, he offers the treatments referenced in this post, as well as metal-free dental restorations and gum recontouring. Schedule a consultation on his website or call (760) 599-6559.