Dental Veneers and Other Common Cosmetic Dental Services

Cosmetic dental services can address various aesthetic concerns, such as stained teeth, crooked teeth, and an uneven gum line. Dental veneers remain a popular choice to address these concerns for their versatility and transformative results. However, veneers are not the only option. Patients can quickly reach their smile goals by learning about veneers and other common cosmetic dental services.

Understanding cosmetic dental services

Cosmetic dental services encompass a range of treatments that improve the overall look of the teeth and gums. These services address common issues such as stains, gaps, chips, and alignment concerns. By enhancing the aesthetics of a smile, cosmetic dentistry often contributes to better self-esteem. It can also lead to better oral health, as patients are often more motivated to practice oral hygiene in order to maintain treatment results.

An overview of dental veneers

Dental veneers are thin shells custom-crafted from porcelain that cover the front surfaces of the teeth. A general dentist may recommend veneers to address multiple cosmetic issues, including discoloration, minor misalignment, gaps, and chips. Thus, they are a versatile solution for creating a uniform and natural-looking smile. In addition to the cosmetic benefits, veneers can also help protect damaged or weakened teeth from further wear.

How veneers are placed

Placing veneers involves multiple steps over two appointments. During the initial appointment, a general dentist prepares the teeth for the veneers. This preparation involves removing a small amount of the outermost layer (enamel) and taking impressions of the teeth. The dentist sends the impressions to a dental lab that crafts the custom veneers for a seamless fit.

The patient will need a second appointment to have the custom veneers placed. During this appointment, the dentist will check how the veneers fit and blend in with the patient's smile. If the patient is satisfied with the results, then the dentist will cement the veneers in place, completing the cosmetic dental service.

Other popular cosmetic dental services

Dental bonding

Dental bonding is a minimally invasive cosmetic dental service for minor imperfections like chips, cracks, or gaps. Once applied, this tooth-colored resin creates a more aesthetically pleasing yet natural-looking smile. With consistent oral hygiene and routine checkups with a general dentist, bonding can last for several years.

Gum contouring

Gum contouring reshapes the gum line to create a balanced and symmetrical appearance, addressing gummy smiles or uneven gum tissue. Gum contouring removes excess gum tissue with precision. This results in an immediate aesthetic improvement. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, gum contouring promotes healthier gums by reducing areas where bacteria can accumulate.

Dental crown lengthening

With dental crown lengthening, a dentist reshapes the gum tissue and bone to expose more of the teeth' surface. This cosmetic dental service is often performed to correct a gummy smile, improve symmetry, or prepare a tooth for a dental crown or similar restoration. The goal is to enhance the appearance of the smile while also supporting better oral health and functionality.