Cosmetic dentistry includes several procedures, including whitening, straightening and reshaping teeth, that result in a brighter, more attractive smile. Not only do many of the procedures provide social benefits, but they may also provide health benefits. The number one benefit of cosmetic dentistry is self-confidence. When you have your teeth straightened, whitened and the gaps filled, you may find that you actually smile more and feel better about your appearance.
Other benefits of seeing a cosmetic dentist include:
Good Oral Hygiene – Crooked and crowded teeth are often difficult to keep clean and have more surfaces that stain and trap food particles. When your teeth are straight, you can more easily floss and brush, keeping the plaque and tartar to a minimum.
Pain Relief – If you have bruxism, which means you habitually and involuntarily grind your teeth, especially at night, or if you have misaligned teeth, you may experience regular pain. When the teeth do not meet properly, they can wear away the enamel, making the tooth more susceptible to decay. Tooth grinding may result in chronic, severe headaches. Both of these health problems can be treated and possibly removed with cosmetic dentistry.
Social Benefits – Clean, straight teeth are more attractive for most people. If you have a job interview, stained, crooked teeth may indicate to the employer that you do not have good oral hygiene. However, if you have a clean, confident smile with straight, white teeth, you may have a better chance of making a good all-round impression.
Look Younger – Since teeth naturally stain and erode as you age, by correcting these issues through cosmetic dentistry, you can look years younger. You may exercise, have facials and other treatments to maintain a youthful appearance, but if you do not care for your teeth as much as you do your body, as soon as you smile, you may look your age.
Prevent Dental Damage – Certain conditions, such as teeth with hairline fractures, may develop into major problems after some time. However, with certain cosmetic procedures, these issues can be taken care of to strengthen the already compromised teeth.
Correct Numerous Flaws – Cosmetic dentistry is not only beneficial for aging people. It can also help teenagers and young adults who have minor flaws, such as misshapen teeth, disproportionately small teeth, cracks, chips, gaps, an uneven gum line and more.
Some of the main cosmetic dentistry treatments are:
Whitening – Over time, smoking, coffee, tea and certain foods and medications will stain your teeth. Professional whitening treatments can reverse this.
Bonding – This process is done to improve cracks, chips and broken teeth with a material that matches the color of your teeth.
Veneers – These custom-made shells completely cover a misshaped or broken tooth.
Crowns – These completely cover a tooth, giving it a new shape and color.
Shaping and Contouring the Enamel – This procedure is one among the many our cosmetic dentist has for improving the appearance of your teeth.
The appearance of your smile is important for your self-confidence and social life, but repairing stained and crooked teeth may also be important for your overall oral health. Serving the Little Rock, AR and surrounding areas, Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, DDS is a pioneer in cosmetic dentistry. During an appointment at his office in Cabot, you can learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, and which procedures are best for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment to learn more!
