Cosmetic dentistry continues to grow in popularity nationwide, giving more and more people reasons to smile confidently.
According to United Financial Consumer Services, a jump in these services appeared to occur around the COVID-19 pandemic, likely as more people became acquainted with their faces on screens thanks to Zoom calls and Facetimes.
Cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on improving the aesthetics of a person’s smile through the improved appearance of the teeth and the gums. It includes a range of aesthetic and health-related procedures, including veneers, orthodontics, and teeth whitening.
We all know that a beautiful smile can go a long way in a person’s personal and professional life. In fact, recent research even indicates that 76% of people base first impressions on people’s smiles – and yet most people are unhappy with theirs!
At Schein Dental, we’ve helped many North Carolina residents achieve smiles they feel great about through experienced, personalized cosmetic services.
If you’re interested in improving the appearance of your teeth, here’s what you need to know about the benefits of these procedures and how to choose the right dental provider.
Let’s dive in.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a specific type of dentistry that objectively aims at improving the visual appeal of a person’s smile. Some common dental procedures include…
- Teeth whitening, which brightens discolored teeth
- Veneers to mask imperfections with thin shells
- Dental bonding to change the shape and color of a person’s teeth
- Orthodontics such as bracers or clear aligners
Generally, these treatments address issues such as stained, chipped, misaligned, or missing teeth, contributing to a more attractive smile and often boosting a patient’s confidence.
In addition to improving appearance, some cosmetic procedures also offer functional benefits. For example, dental implants not only replace missing teeth but also restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
Similarly, straightening teeth with braces or aligners can improve bite alignment, reducing the risk of jaw problems or tooth wear.
Overall, cosmetic dentistry blends art and science to achieve both aesthetic and functional improvements, catering to those who wish to enhance their smile and overall oral health. When patients feel good about their smiles, they’re more likely to take care of them and ensure that confidence continues.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures designed to address stains while improving the appearance of the teeth. Research estimates that this service accounts for nearly a third of all in-office dental appointments in the U.S.
Professional teeth treatments offer more dramatic results compared to over-the-counter products, and in-office bleaching agents are designed to last longer.
Most notably, professional teeth whitening removes difficult stains that are often harder for over-the-counter products to touch. The process involves applying a bleaching agent to the teeth activated by a special light or heat.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front-facing surface of teeth. They are typically more expensive than typical teeth whitening treatments, but they can also correct issues such as chips or gaps.
Veneers are bonded to the teeth and last typically up to 30 years, making them a durable solution for achieving a perfect smile and boosting the confidence that comes with it.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair minor imperfections, such as chips and cracks. The resin that’s used is shaped and polished to blend with the surrounding teeth, making it the best option for a cosmetic touch-up.
This procedure is relatively fast and cost-effective, making it popular among patients seeking immediate results that won’t break the bank.
Invisalign & Orthodontics
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth without the need for metal braces. These aligners are designed to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions while providing a discreet alternative to conventional braces.
Invisalign (and similar treatments) have become increasingly popular because they are minimally invasive, relatively painless, and require no maintenance. Such orthodontic options are especially popular among adults seeking a less noticeable way to achieve a straighter smile.
Dental Crowns & Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are restorative procedures that also offer aesthetic benefits. Crowns are used to cover damaged teeth, restoring their shape, size, and strength.
Bridges replace missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent teeth or dental implants, which effectively fill gaps and improve the overall appearance of a person’s smile.
Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry
Improved Aesthetics
One of the most obvious benefits of cosmetic dentistry is the immediate improvement of a person’s smile. People want bright, whiter, and straighter smiles, and cosmetic services are the fastest and most effective way to get there in most cases.
Boosted Confidence
Recent research has indicated that a staggering 99.7% of people in the United States perceive a smile as their MOST important social asset. When you feel confident about your smile, that confidence can seep into many other elements of your life, including your relationships and self-assurance in work settings.
Enhanced Oral Health
As we touched on earlier, many cosmetic procedures also offer functional benefits that contribute to overall oral health. For example, dental crowns can protect weakened teeth from further degradation, and Invisalign can improve an overbite. Both aesthetic and functional improvements help increase your smile’s longevity.
Long-Lasting Results
Cosmetic dental treatments are designed to provide long-lasting results for clients. Procedures such as veneers and dental crowns are made from durable materials that are capable of withstanding regular usage provided that patients continue upkeep and proper maintenance.
The longevity of these treatments adds value and satisfaction to a person’s life and allows clients to enjoy their smiles for years to come.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist
When selecting the right cosmetic dentist, it’s essential to consider the provider’s experience and credentials. Look for a dentist with specialized training in cosmetic procedures and a track record of successful and drastic improvements.
An experienced cosmetic dentist should be skilled in various techniques and will be able to handle complex cases in order to deliver safe, beautiful results.
At Schein Dental, our team is committed to raising cosmetic dentistry to an art form, and we pride ourselves on staying up to date with the latest advancements in dentistry.
This level of commitment allows us to provide exceptional results tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re seeking minor enhancements or a comprehensive makeover, choosing the right dentist near you can make all the difference in achieving your desired outcome.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?
As we just discussed, cosmetic dentistry offers numerous benefits. However, we understand many procedures are expensive and intimidating, so you need to feel confident that this is the right move for your situation.
If you have questions about cosmetic dentistry or are wondering what options are available for your smile, let’s talk.
Contact Our North Carolina Cosmetic Dental Team Today
Schein Dental is an award-winning dentistry practice based in Matthews, North Carolina. If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure, Dr. Schein and his team of qualified professionals will help you understand your options and select the best path for your budget and needs.
Give us a call at 704-610-0494 or schedule an appointment online to get started.
