The global cosmetic dentistry industry reached $29.6 billion in 2021. Between 2022 and 2030, the industry could grow by a CAGR of 13%. More patients are investing in maintaining beautiful, healthy smiles. With these cosmetic dentistry procedures, you can, too!

Not sure which procedure suits your needs? Read on to discover the procedures you can discuss with your cosmetic dentist in Largo, FL today.

Teeth Whitening

About 80% of American adults ages 18 to 49 want whiter teeth. It's no wonder that Americans spend over $1.4 billion on at-home whitening products. At-home solutions, however, aren't always effective or safe. Instead, talk to your cosmetic dentist in Largo to discuss professional teeth whitening procedures.

Cosmetic teeth whitening (or "teeth bleaching") involves using a bleaching agent to whiten and brighten your teeth. This procedure is ideal for patients with dull, stained, or discolored smiles. If you tend to drink a lot of tea, coffee, and wine, your teeth have likely sustained staining over time.

During this procedure, your cosmetic dentist will first apply the bleaching agent to the surface of your teeth. To activate the agent, they'll use a special curing light. The entire process takes an hour or less.

Your cosmetic dentist might send you home with at-home teeth bleaching kits you can use to maintain the results from your in-office procedure. You can also maintain your stunning, bright smile by prioritizing your oral health. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Otherwise, bacteria and plaque can infect your smile. 

Teeth whitening can improve your appearance, which could boost your self-esteem and confidence. As with all procedures, there are a few risks to consider. For example, some patients experience tooth sensitivity and temporary gum irritation. You might notice sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. Talk to your cosmetic dentist if these side effects persist beyond a few days. 

Dental Bonding

Cosmetic tooth bonding, or dental bonding, involves adhering (bonding) tooth-colored materials to the surface of a tooth. This procedure is ideal if your tooth is stained, chipped, or broken. Bonding can restore your smile to improve your oral health and appearance. It's also used to change the size or shape of a tooth. 

This procedure is quick, easy, and usually only requires one appointment. During the procedure, your dentist will first need to clean and prepare the tooth receiving treatment. They'll apply the bonding resin to the surface of your tooth, which they'll harden using a special light.

Dental bonding is an effective and affordable solution to a range of dental problems. However, the bonding material can chip or crack if you're not careful. Avoid chewing on hard foods or using your teeth as a tool to maintain your bonded tooth.

Schedule regular appointments and cleanings with your dentist following your appointment as well. 

Dental bonding is both safe and effective. Potential complications include allergic reactions or sensitivity. Make sure to discuss the pros and cons of each cosmetic dentistry procedure with your dentist. 

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin shells made from composite material or porcelain. These materials ensure their durability and longevity. Cosmetic dental veneers are custom-made. They're small caps that are cemented to the front side of a tooth to conceal cosmetic issues.

For example, your cosmetic dentist might recommend veneers if you chipped a tooth. They can also help improve the appearance of crooked or discolored teeth. Veneers can even cover large gaps between two teeth. 

To cement the veneer into place, your dentist will first need to shave down the surface of the tooth getting treated. You can request a local anesthetic to numb the pain. Your dentist will use a special ultraviolet light to cement the veneer onto the surface of your tooth.

Crowns

If a tooth is severely damaged, your dentist might recommend a crown. Dental crowns are made using composite resin, porcelain, or ceramic. They're also called dental caps. Your dentist will custom-make your crown to fit it over an existing tooth. This option is ideal if you have a tooth that's:

• Badly decayed
• Broken
• Chipped
• Poorly shaped

Crowns can also cover spaces between teeth. Their durability ensures they can withstand biting pressure. 

Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth. However, they're a short-term option compared to dental implants. Dentures won't stimulate your jaw bone, which could cause future problems.

For example, your cheeks might sink inward, affecting your appearance and causing wrinkles to form. 

Complete dentures can replace all the teeth in your mouth. If you're only missing a few teeth, your dentist might recommend partial dentures. 

Invisalign

Invisalign and other orthodontic options (including traditional metal braces) are ideal if you're unhappy with the appearance of your smile. Orthodontic treatment can help straighten your smile, improving your oral health in the process. For example, you might consider orthodontic treatment if you have an underbite, overbite, crossbite, or gaps between your teeth. 

Invisalign aligners are clear and made of thin plastic. As a result, Invisalign offers a more discreet and comfortable treatment option.

You can talk to your cosmetic dentist to determine if you're an ideal candidate for treatment. If your orthodontic problems are more extensive, they might recommend braces instead. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants use metal posts (usually made of titanium), which are surgically implanted into your jawbone, to replace a missing tooth. Implants can stimulate your jawbone. They look and function like natural teeth, improving your oral health and appearance. 

The implant will act as a tooth root to anchor a crown. 

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures: Talk to Your Dentist in Largo, FL

You don't have to feel bad about the appearance of your smile. Instead, talk to a dentist in Largo, FL about these cosmetic dentistry procedures. Your cosmetic dentist will help you determine which procedures align with your goals and needs. With their help, you can improve the appearance of your smile in no time. 

Ready to schedule a consultation appointment? We can't wait to see you. Contact us today to get started.