If you’re frustrated by imperfect teeth, you’re not alone. One of the first things people notice about you is the condition of your smile, so it’s natural to want it to be flawless. Thankfully, your dentist can provide one or several cosmetic services to boost your confidence. You might hesitate to move forward with your elected procedure, however, if you’re not sure what to expect from the results.
Continue reading to learn more about 3 popular treatments that can improve your appearance and how long the results usually last!
Procedure #1: Teeth Whitening
One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to enhance your grin is with professional teeth whitening. Years of consuming darkly pigmented ingredients in different foods and drinks can leave your pearly whites looking dull and drab. While it’s possible to find over-the-counter solutions that claim they can brighten your teeth, these products often contain more abrasive ingredients that can cause sensitivity. Plus, you might struggle to achieve the shade you’re hoping for.
Meanwhile, your dentist has access to professional-grade materials that can lighten your smile by several shades in a single, hour-long appointment. If that doesn’t suit you, many providers also offer take-home kits using the same top-quality gels and custom-fitted application trays for optimal comfort. The results can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years and can be extended by brushing and flossing twice daily. You can also apply periodic touch-ups to maintain the perfect tone.
Procedure #2: Porcelain Veneers
Some teeth have internal blemishes that can’t be bleached away, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with discoloration. Intrinsic stains, chips, cracks, and slightly crooked teeth can all be masked with porcelain veneers. These thin, ceramic shells are color-matched and then bonded to the front surface of your pearly whites for a seamless smile.
Keep in mind that for them to line up against your gums, your dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel. This protective material doesn’t regenerate, meaning that your tooth is permanently altered. You’ll need to have veneers or another restoration in place to shield your tooth moving forward. Fortunately, veneers can last 20+ years with the right care, making them an excellent long-term solution.
Procedure #3: BOTOX
It may come as a shock to learn that the same person you see for dental care can also remove years’ worth of wrinkles from your face, but it’s true! Certain dental issues can change your facial structure and make you look older than you are. For example, if you suffer from bruxism (chronic teeth grinding), the constant clenching overworks the muscles in your mouth and jaw. They can start to look larger and bulkier, expanding your face and making you look older.
Many dentists are licensed to administer BOTOX to help with such TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues. They can also inject it in strategic locations like between your eyebrows, above your cheekbones, along your forehead, or at the corners of your lips to reduce the prevalence of fine lines. You can have a younger-looking visage for anywhere from 2 to 6 months before needing a touch-up.
Now that you know more about how long your cosmetic results will last, you can make informed decisions when it comes to upgrading your grin!
About the Practice
At My Frederick Dentist, you benefit from two skilled dentists who work together to offer a full array of services from one convenient location, including cosmetic dentistry. Drs. Aziz and Hong have 10+ years of combined experience helping patients improve their overall health by enhancing their dental condition. They take the time to learn your unique history and needs so that they can quickly create fully individualized solutions if a problem arises. Then, with state-of-the-art equipment, they deliver top-quality treatments that are intended to last. If you’d like a cosmetic consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or call (301) 698-9552.