If you feel insecure about your teeth, you’re not alone: over half of US adults are in the same boat. Almost three in five even admit to covering their mouths when they laugh because of this. Half also say they often try their best to smile without showing their teeth.

The thing is, such insecurities can place a severe toll on your mental health and well-being. Studies suggest that dental maladies are significant risk factors for having low self-esteem. This, in turn, can lead to more serious health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can provide you with many ways to counter such risks. With the help of a cosmetic dentist, you can regain your confidence in your smile.

The big question now is, what exactly is this branch of dentistry and how can it benefit you?

This post rounds up all the key facts you need to know about cosmetic dentistry, so be sure to read on!

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry aimed to enhance the appearance of the teeth and gums. You have many cosmetic dental options, ranging from color correction to teeth replacement. Restorations are also available for most types of dental damage, such as chips and cracks.

The ultimate goal of cosmetic dentistry is to boost your overall appearance. Teeth and gums that look amazing, after all, can foster improved self-confidence. This, in turn, can help you smile more, which scientists say can really make you happier.

Are All Cosmetic Dental Options Purely Aesthetic?

Not necessarily, as cosmetic dental options, such as crowns, can help with bruxism. Bruxism is a condition characterized by unconscious teeth clenching, grinding, or gnashing.

Moreover, some types of cosmetic dentistry, like bonding, can help strengthen the teeth. Dental crowns and veneers can also give the teeth a better structure. This, in turn, may help reduce the risks of further tooth damage.

Then, there are dental implants, which can help prevent further bone loss. They have also shown to promote better overall nutrition and oral health.

What Are the Different Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Services?

Among the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments are dental bonding, crowns, and veneers. A lot of people also opt for teeth whitening or color correction/balancing.

If you want to correct several flaws at the same time, you may also consider a smile makeover. It’s a treatment plan that combines various cosmetic dental treatments.

Below we’ll take a closer look at each of your cosmetic dental options.

Dental Bonding

Bonding enables the successful attachment of filling material to the tooth enamel. The materials used in them replicate the appearance of the natural tooth. They can be a stand-alone treatment, but they can also serve as an “adhesive” for other treatments.

Bonding is one of the quickest and most affordable restorative cosmetic dental services. Dentists use it to fix chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. It can even help close gaps between the teeth without having to get braces.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers consist of either porcelain or composite resin materials. These are extremely thin shells that go on top of the front surface of the teeth. As with dental bonding, veneers also mimic the color of natural teeth.

Veneers are an excellent option for fixing minor tooth issues such as cracks and chips. As they go on top of the teeth, they can also camouflage stains, including those that whitening can’t fix.

In addition, veneers can help correct minor cases of microdontia. Microdontia is a condition wherein some (or all) of the teeth are smaller than normal. According to scientists, it affects…
 
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