How Safe Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

If you aren’t entirely confident about the appearance of your smile, you will be pleased to know that there are a variety of cosmetic options out there that can enhance the natural beauty of your pearly whites. However, you want to ensure that undergoing cosmetic dental treatment is in your best interest. Continue reading to learn more about the safety of cosmetic dentistry so you can determine whether or not it is right for you.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?

Cosmetic dentistry is primarily intended to improve the appearance of the teeth. As long are you are under the care of a trained professional, most cosmetic dental procedures are safe for the majority of patients, but not every treatment is right for everyone. That’s why it’s so important that your dentist examines your mouth beforehand and gives you an honest assessment of which procedures would be ideal for you.

Some cosmetic services can post a risk if an underlying oral health issues is present. For instance, if a veneer is placed over a tooth with untreated decay, this can make the tooth more difficult to treat later on. However, your dentist will plan to address these types of problems before getting started with any type of cosmetic treatment.

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 teeth whitening is a safe option with much more effective results. You can choose between in-office or at-home whitening tray. Those who pick in-office whitening will see results in about an hour, while patients who opt for at-home whitening will be able to see their brighter smile in a couple of weeks.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of dental grade porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth in order to cover up all sorts of different aesthetic flaws, including:

• Gaps
• Stains
• Chips
• Cracks
• Undersized/misshapen teeth
• Slightly crooked teeth

During your initial visit, a small portion of the protective enamel is removed in order to make room for the veneers. An impression is then taken and sent off to the dental lab where the permanent ones are crafted. In just a few weeks, they are permanently cemented to the teeth, and you leave the office with a beautiful smile makeover!

Direct Bonding

If you have minimal chips, cracks, stains, or gaps, cosmetic bonding makes an excellent, yet 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 it is cost effective.

Cosmetic dentistry is a booming industry, and it’s perfectly safe when you see a skilled dentist. You will be showing off your new and improved smile in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Thomas G. Peters earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. The program required a minimum of 1,100 hours in dental courses, including 400 hours of hands-on procedures under the supervision of a qualified expert, and courses that expose him to current technology and techniques in all disciplines of dentistry. Currently, he is also a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Connecticut State Dental Society, and Hartford Dental Society. For more information on cosmetic dentistry or to schedule an appointment at his office in Farmington, visit his website or call (860) 677-8500.