Teeth can become dull, yellow, or stained over time, whether we have consumed foods that stain or due to factors beyond our control like aging. If you want to get a white smile once again, you can schedule a cosmetic consultation with your dentist.
Depending on your unique smile and aesthetic goals, your dentist could recommend a variety of different dental procedures. Dr. Sulekha Agrawal, a dentist practicing in Columbia, MD, lists four dental treatments that can brighten your teeth and give you the smile of your dreams.
Ask Your Dentist About Smile Enhancement Treatments
Professional Teeth Whitening
With professional teeth whitening treatment from your dentist, you can get a brighter smile tailored to your specific dental structure. Under supervision from your dentist, you can get a natural look with minimal risk of side effects, unlike with a store-bought whitening kit from your local shop.
Your dentist begins this treatment by applying a whitening gel to your teeth. They will shield your gums to avoid irritation. Then they use a specialized light to activate the bleaching agents. You should see gradual whitening results within 24 hours after your appointment.
Dental Bonding
Dentists often recommend tooth bonding to patients who hope to amend minor cosmetic concerns. This treatment is effective and affordable, compared to other more long-term cosmetic dental work.
During this procedure, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from your affected teeth to prepare the area. Then they use composite resin to sculpt your teeth according to your aesthetic goals.
A final polish will create a natural-looking, beautiful finish and a brighter color. These effects can last from three to ten years if you take care of them well.
Porcelain Veneers
You can experience long-lasting smile enhancement with porcelain veneers. Your dentist will construct customized veneers according to your ideal tooth color, size, and shape, ensuring a natural and gorgeous final look.
When the veneers are ready, your dentist will secure them to the front of your teeth to create both a whiter and straighter smile. With proper maintenance, these fixtures can remain in place for fifteen years.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a restorative dental treatment, used to shield and preserve a damaged tooth. However, as with porcelain veneers, your dentist builds these ceramic caps with your unique smile and aesthetic goals in mind.
Therefore, a crown can be used to cover a severely discolored tooth, enhancing its appearance as well as its structure and function. Ask your dentist about aftercare tips for this dental treatment to get the most out of your crowns.
Teeth Whitening and More in Columbia, MD
Columbia Family Dental Care offers professional teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dentistry treatments to patients in Columbia, MD. Dr. Agrawal also specializes in general and restorative dentistry, including periodontal care, for patients of all ages. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact our staff online or reach us by phone at 410.221.3097.