If you’re frustrated by imperfections in your grin, like stubborn stains, chips and cracks, or mild gaps or misalignments, then you’re in luck! Your dentist can provide one or more services to address your aesthetic concerns and boost your confidence.
However, many patients avoid these elective services because they’re worried the procedures might cause discomfort. Thanks to more recent updates in dental technology and techniques, most cosmetic treatments today are minimally invasive and don’t usually hurt. Continue reading to learn 3 pain-free ways to enhance your appearance!
Option #1: Lumineers
You might benefit from Lumineers if you’ve ever considered getting veneers to address one or more dental imperfections but shied away because they require removing a thin layer of enamel. These customizable, porcelain shells address many of the same issues, but they’re thinner than veneers so there’s no need to alter the structure of your teeth for them to fit correctly.
Your dentist can place these lifelike restorations to mask concerns like chips, cracks, discoloration, and even mild gaps or misalignments. As a bonus, this treatment can be reversed if you decide one day that you no longer want the ceramic covers attached to the front of your enamel.
Option #2: Cosmetic Bonding
Dental bonding is another straightforward and versatile treatment that can address multiple issues. This procedure involves applying color-matched, putty-like composite resin directly to your enamel in layers. This method is used to fill in or hide damaged enamel or stubborn stains, or to reshape worn-down or stubby teeth.
Once your dentist molds the material into the perfect shape, they harden it in place with a special ultraviolet curing light so it hardens and bonds with the surface of your teeth. The result is a seamless repair that can last 5 to 10+ years with the right care. Plus, the entire procedure can often be completed from start to finish in a single, hour-long appointment without any need for sedatives or anesthetics.
Option #3: Teeth Whitening
One of the first things others notice about your smile is its shade, and if yours looks more muddy or yellow than pearly white, you might not make a good impression. Fortunately, your dentist can lighten your grin by up to eight shades with a single in-office whitening treatment for instant results.
Or, if you’re short on time, they can provide a take-home kit with ultra-concentrated gels designed to mitigate potential sensitivity. They’ll also include custom-fitted trays for an optimal application and ideal outcome from the comfort of your living room.
Although cosmetic procedures don’t typically require the use of local anesthetics or sedatives, if you’re overly anxious, you can discuss these options with your provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. J. D. Robison is a skilled dentist with years of experience improving patients’ daily lives by enhancing their smiles. He has multiple degrees from Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Detroit Mercy, and has also completed the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Studies’ core curriculum. He has also completed extensive training in esthetics and offers multiple procedures intended to boost your looks and increase your self-esteem. You can request a consultation on the website or call (734) 453-6320.