Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures That Enhances Our Smile

There are many cosmetic dental procedures that can improve your smile. These procedures are minimally invasive and can be performed quickly. Listed below are some popular cosmetic dentistry procedures.

• Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of a ceramic material that is bonded directly to our tooth surface, covering imperfections and creating a more uniform smile. They are custom-made for each patient with impressions we take in our dental office. The veneers are color-matched to our surrounding teeth for a natural-looking outcome that dramatically improves the appearance of our smile.

Porcelain veneers are created from high-quality materials that make them highly durable. They resist staining and do not discolor over time, making them a great option for patients who drink coffee, tea, or wine regularly. They are also resistant to chipping and breaking. With proper oral hygiene and regular checkups at our dental office, they can last for years! Patients love them because they offer a quick treatment time and dramatic results. Often, they only need two appointments for treatment to be complete. Every patient's timeline will vary based on their personal oral health needs.

• Dental Crowns

Sometimes, a tooth is severely damaged and requires more than just a filling to fix. A dental crown is used when the tooth is damaged enough to need a larger restoration than a filling can provide. The crown is placed over the entire tooth to cover it up and protect it from further damage and decay. Since the crown fits over the tooth, it can still be used to eat and speak normally, just like a regular tooth. However, it is important to practice good dental hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent bacteria from building up and causing further damage to the tooth.

• Teeth Whitening

One of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures that patients request is teeth whitening, which removes stains from teeth and makes your smile brighter and whiter. Professional whitening treatment is also safer and more effective when compared to over-the-counter whitening kits because they are also formulated by professional dentists. Most patients get results from their whitening treatments instantly, while others can experience some sensitivity during or after their procedure. This is because your enamel is slightly porous, and some patients have thin enamel that can be more sensitive when exposed to certain foods and beverages. After your treatment, you should avoid foods and beverages that will stain your teeth, and you should brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to maintain your results. Depending on your lifestyle and habits, you may need to repeat your whitening treatment every few years to keep your smile bright.

• Dental Bonding

One of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures is dental bonding, in which a composite resin is applied to a tooth to improve its appearance. The dentist will shape the composite resin to your tooth's ideal shape and color and then harden it in place with high-intensity light. Several layers of the material can be applied to give the tooth additional strength, durability, and shine. Tooth bonding can also be used to fill in gaps in teeth and close spaces between them without the use of braces or orthodontics. This is ideal for patients who want a straighter smile without traditional metal braces.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kossi, DDS, at Smile City Dental in Santa Clarita, California, to learn more tips for maintaining a healthy smile. You can reach us by calling (661) 252-8888, scheduling an appointment online, or visiting us at 19366 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91351 now.