Common cosmetic dentistry procedures explained 

Who doesn’t want a perfect smile? If you have discolored or missing teeth, or aren’t happy with your smile, you should consider cosmetic dentistry. As the name indicates, this is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the aesthetics of your teeth. When you visit a cosmetic dentist in Laurel, MD, you will learn about numerous procedures and treatment options. For your help, here is an overview of a few common procedures. 

1. Teeth Whitening. This is among the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures out there, typically recommended for teeth discoloration and staining. It involves using a specialized bleaching agent. The procedure is fairly simple and can be completed within an hour, depending on the extent of staining/discoloration. 
2. Dental Veneers. Think of dental veneers as fresh surfaces for your teeth. Made of porcelain and other composite materials, dental veneers are custom-made for each patient and cemented to the frontal side of the tooth. In general, dental veneers are recommended for fixing chipped or gapped teeth. 
3. Dental Implants. If you have missing teeth and don’t want to go for flimsy dentures, your cosmetic dentist may recommend dental implants as an alternative. A dental implant is a replacement root made of titanium that’s placed surgically in the jawbone. It works as an anchor for your replacement teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent and can last a lifetime. 
4. Dental Crowns. Also known as caps, dental crowns are used to cover the top surface of the tooth. Typically made of acrylic or porcelain, crowns are often used for fixing broken, decayed, or poorly shaped teeth. You may also consider getting dental crowns for fixing gaps between your teeth. 
5. Orthodontic care. Contrary to popular belief, braces and orthodontic treatments are not for kids and teens alone. Even adults may need to consider orthodontic care to fix crowded and misaligned teeth. While metal braces are still available and remain an affordable option, you can also consider invisible aligners, which are removable and can fix many orthodontic concerns. 

The scope of cosmetic dentistry has expanded massively in the last few years. If you want to improve your smile or wish to fix dental concerns that are impacting your face, visiting a cosmetic dentist is a good idea. Most procedures are safe and do not hurt, and you can be done within one or two appointments. If you go for extensive procedures like braces or implants, you may have to meet the cosmetic dentist more often for the treatment plan.