A healthy smile can leave an excellent lasting impression on others. A good smile takes time and is achievable through good dental hygiene practices and cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dental enhancement is a modern method of oral healthcare aimed at improving the visual appeal of teeth and your smile. The enhancements range from simple to complex, with some requiring expert care and specialized equipment. Here are the top five common dental cosmetic procedures we offer at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa for a brighter and healthier smile.
1. Braces
Braces are the most common cosmetic procedure for correcting many teeth deformities such as overcrowding, overbite, and severe tooth crookedness. Braces correct these deformities by applying pressure on the teeth to straighten and align them properly. Wearing braces enhances the quality of your smile and bite over time. Though common among teenagers, braces can also correct teeth deformities in adults.
Dental braces can be made from metal or ceramics that link to one another using wire attachments. During braces installation, a bonding material affixes the metal brackets to the tooth surface while the archwire helps apply pressure to the jawline and affected teeth. Braces installation is generally painless and may take a few hours to complete. The braces will remain in place for a few months to a few years, depending on the extent of tooth crookedness.
2. Invisalign
Invisalign is a cosmetic procedure that fixes crooked teeth without relying on metal braces. Instead, Invisalign relies on a combination of tailor-made transparent braces that straightens crooked teeth by gradually pulling them into their correct position. Invisalign aligners come from safe materials such as BPA-free plastic and are removable.
The customizability of Invisalign braces makes them more comfortable to wear than conventional metal braces. In addition to smile enhancement, using Invisalign braces over time corrects overcrowding, crossbite, and underbite, among other issues. Orthodontists rely on X-ray snapshots and complex 3D models to design clear aligners that fit correctly in the mouth. After receiving your Invisalign aligners, you will have to return for a check-up after every two to three weeks for adjustment or aligner replacement. The average treatment time for this procedure is about a year, and is available to adults and teenagers.
3. Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a suitable alternative to dental braces. Oral veneers are tailor-made dental shells placed on the outer surface of the teeth to conceal imperfections such as tooth staining and chipping. Dental veneers have been around for over 40 years and are available in various designs and finishes depending on a patient's personal needs.
When installing veneers, orthodontists coat the outer surface of the front teeth with a thin layer of ceramic that bonds to the tooth structure. Veneers are superb for repairing chipped teeth and masking discolorations. Most dental veneers are non-removable and can last up to 10 years under good care practices. Veneers are minimally invasive and less costly than other cosmetic procedures.
4. Whitening
Teeth whitening involves the application of gels, toothpaste, strips, and trays to deliver a brighter smile to dull-looking teeth. Though it's possible to whiten your teeth at home, it's advisable to have the whitening procedure done by a qualified dentist. Dentist intervention is necessary for people with sensitive teeth, severe staining, or pre-existing tooth fillings.
The teeth whitening begins with a thorough clean-up to remove tartar and plaque deposits on the teeth' surface. Most over-the-counter whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide, a compound that bleaches the tooth from deep inside for a whiter and brighter smile. Over-the-counter whitening gels come with usage instructions; you may need to use them multiple times a day for a few weeks. Laser whitening is a modern whitening method that brightens teeth in less than an hour.
5. Dental implants
Dental implants are cosmetic fixtures that replace worn-out or missing teeth with artificial ones to restore the look and function of normal dental formula. Dental implants require surgical installation to attach the artificial tooth to the jawbone using screw-like posts. However, dental implants are not for everyone. It is not ideal for people with a thin, weak, or immature jaw bone. Dental implants improve eating, speech, and smile quality. Our dental centre in Ottawa specializes in many types of dental implants to correct even the most acute deformities.
Enter the new year with a new smile, by visiting us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa for a dental makeover. Contact us today to inquire about our cosmetic dental services or to schedule an appointment.
