Do you hide your teeth in photos? Looking for a way to get a perfect smile that you can show off without feeling self-conscious? Try this cosmetic dentistry how-to guide to improve your smile!
Step One | Get Evaluated by a Dentist
First, you need to see a cosmetic dentist like those at Vibrant Dental. They can give you an examination to determine what treatments are best for your situation. This evaluation will include three steps.
X-Rays
Using x-rays, a dentist can determine the severity of any cracks, breaks, or cavities. This will help in prescribing a treatment plan.
The x-ray process is usually simple. Depending on your dentist, you may just need to stand in place, biting a small plastic mouthpiece as the x-ray machine moves around your head.
Digital Imaging
Your dentist may also ask for pictures to be taken of your teeth. This step helps in deciding the right treatment for you and in planning that treatment. Dentists can use pictures to digitally render models to use when making devices such as crowns and implants.
Physical Exam
A dentist performs a physical exam to check for any observable issues on your teeth, tongue, or gums. This can assist in diagnosis as well.
Step Two | Carry Out Recommended Treatment
Many cosmetic dental treatments can create the perfect smile. Your dentist can help you find the one you need to get the smile you’re looking for.
- Veneers. Thin shells that cover the outward surface of your front teeth, creating a unified dazzling finish.
- Teeth Whitening. A solution applied to the teeth via custom plastic trays that lightens the color up to 10 shades.
- Crowns. Caps that cover an entire tooth, giving it added protection and restoring its beautiful appearance and functionality.
- Dental Bonding. Moldable tooth-colored putty that can smooth over small cracks, breaks, and stains.
- Dental Implants. Tiny titanium posts that replace a missing tooth root and support a gorgeous false tooth.
Step Three | Maintain Your Perfect Smile
Once you’ve had your dental work done and gotten the smile you’ve always wanted, it’s up to you to maintain it! There are a few simple steps you can take to keep your smile strong and beautiful.
Brush Twice a Day
Whatever cosmetic procedure you get, you’ll need to brush your teeth. Regular brushing keeps bacteria in check and prevents cavities and infections.
Brushing at night cleanses your mouth of all the food that you’ve eaten throughout the day, and brushing in the morning takes care of the bacteria that have accumulated overnight. You might try brushing between meals, especially after eating foods with lots of sugar in them.
Floss Every Day
The importance of flossing can’t be overstated, yet so many people don’t do it. Flossing keeps your gums healthy and protects the areas between your teeth. Flossing prevents gum disease and generally keeps your mouth healthier and cleaner.
Rinse With Mouthwash
After you floss, rinse out your mouth to wash out all the debris you just knocked free by flossing. Using an antibacterial mouthwash is another great way to get rid of bacteria and preserve your new perfect smile.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
Every time you visit your dentist, they will check your dental work to make sure it’s still functioning as promised. Their team will also give your teeth a professional cleaning, which will give your teeth another layer of protection against cavities and infection.
Vibrant Dental offers many wonderful cosmetic dentistry services that provide our Henderson patients with incredible smiles. We can craft your dream smile too. Schedule with us today for a cosmetic dentistry consultation to get started.