No two denturists are the same. If you have been wearing dentures for a while, you know that no two sets of dentures are the same. Finding a quality, experienced denturist can seriously impact the comfort of your dentures. You do not have to deal with loose plates, gums that are rubbed raw, distorted speech, and the inability to eat your favorite foods. If you have any of these problems, there are a few things that you can try before replacing your dentures. Use what I have learned over my 15 years of wearing dentures to find a perfect fit and optimum comfort in your dentures.
Priscilla Hansen
Your smile is a very personal part of you, and you should be happy with it. If there are things about your smile that you don't like, a cosmetic dentist can help you make changes until your teeth look the way you want them to. Here are four cosmetic dentistry treatments that can improve your smile:
1. Veneers
If your teeth are stained, or if you have prominent gaps between your teeth, you should consider veneers. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that a dentist will attach to the front of your teeth. They're the same color as your teeth, so they will give the illusion of perfectly white, even teeth. Veneers are a permanent solution, so if you opt for this procedure, you won't have to worry about continually whitening your teeth or paying for upkeep.
2. Tooth bonding
If you have a chip in your tooth, veneers are one option. However, in some cases, you may not want to make the commitment involved in getting veneers. In that case, you should consider tooth bonding. When your cosmetic dentist performs this procedure, they'll fill in any chip or crack in your teeth using a tooth-colored amalgam. This is the same material used to fill cavities, but in this case, your dentist won't be drilling out decay first.
3. Enamel reshaping
If your teeth are misshapen, or if they have ridges or bumps that you find unattractive, enamel reshaping is an option you can consider. During this procedure, your dentist will use a special tool to carefully remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth. This will allow them to reshape your teeth into a more aesthetically pleasing shape. It's a very quick procedure, and it will give you instantaneous results. However, if you have weak teeth, you should consult with your cosmetic dentist before undergoing this procedure; removing enamel from your teeth may make them more prone to cavities in the future.
4. Tooth whitening
In some cases, you may be happy with the overall shape and structure of your teeth, while wishing that your teeth were whiter. Everyone is born with pearly white teeth, but age and lifestyle choices can make them look yellow over time. A cosmetic dentist can provide in-office whitening services that will make your teeth look shiny and new once again. Tooth whitening can cause sensitivity, so use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth if you experience this side effect.