The adage, “Accept the things you cannot change and change the things you cannot accept,” rings true for many people when it comes to their teeth. If you are unhappy with your smile, many options are available to help improve it. For one, you can turn to orthodontic or cosmetic procedures.
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that deals with enhancing the appearance of teeth.
If you want to know how to improve your teeth, here are five procedures you can look into:
1. Get braces if you have crooked teeth
This is a common and effective way to straighten teeth and improve your smile. There are different types available, including metal, clear, and invisible. Your orthodontist will help you choose the right type for you, but here’s a general overview:
Metal
Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of metal brackets and wires placed on your teeth. The wires put pressure on your teeth, gradually moving them into place. And the brackets are attached to your teeth with special glue or metal bands.
Clear
These are made of clear plastic or ceramic brackets and wires. They are less noticeable than metal braces, but they are more expensive. You could get ceramic braces if you are concerned about the appearance of metal braces.
Invisible
These are also known as lingual braces or clear aligners. They are made of clear plastic brackets and wires that attach to the back of your teeth. They are the most invisible type of braces, but they are also the most expensive. However, you could also get Invisalign, which are custom-made, clear plastic braces that fit over your teeth.
2. Use a retainer if you have had braces
Once your braces are removed, you will need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place. There are different retainers, including fixed retainers (which are attached to your teeth) and removable retainers (which you can take out). Your orthodontist will help you choose the right type for you.
Retainers are essential because they help keep your teeth in place after you have had braces. If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth may move back to their original position. So, it is vital to wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist.
3. Get dental implants if you have missing teeth
If you have a missing tooth, you may want to consider getting a dental implant. This is a titanium post surgically implanted into your jawbone. It is then used to support a dental crown, which replaces the missing tooth.
This may sound like a lot of work, but it is a permanent solution that looks and feels like your natural teeth. And it is more affordable than other options, such as dentures. So, if you are missing teeth, a dental implant may be the right solution for you.
4. Consider veneers if you have stained or crooked teeth
Veneers are a type of cosmetic dentistry that can improve the appearance of your teeth. They are thin, porcelain shells bonded to your teeth. They can help correct crooked, stained, or chipped teeth.
Moreover, they are durable and long-lasting. They can last for up to 10 years if you’re careful. So, if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, porcelain veneers may be the right solution for you, especially if you have stains that cannot be corrected with teeth whitening.
5. Whiten your teeth with at-home or professional treatments
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. It can be done in-office or at home, and it involves bleaching your teeth to make them several shades lighter. Whitening your teeth can improve your smile and make you look younger.
There are several types of teeth whitening available, so you should find the right one for you. You can get an in-office teeth whitening treatment if you want immediate results. Or, if you want to save money, you can get an at-home teeth whitening kit. So, if you are not happy with the color of your teeth, consider getting them whitened.
These are just a few dental procedures that can improve your teeth. Talk to your dentist or orthodontist to see which one is right for you. And, if you are considering cosmetic dentistry, be sure to find a reputable and experienced dentist who can give you the results you want.
Remember: you don’t have to live with a less-than-perfect smile. There are many dental procedures available that can help you improve your teeth. So, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about your options. With the correct procedure, you can have the smile you’ve always wanted.