If you’re like most patients, you dutifully show up for your twice-yearly checkups and cleanings and report back if you chip a filling, suspect a cavity, or experience a toothache. Many patients come in even when they are not having an actual problem because they want to improve the look of their smiles. If you would like to see whiter, brighter, straighter, or more even teeth smiling back at you when you look in the mirror, you might want to consider some of these cosmetic dentistry options.

Tooth Whitening

If your pearly whites are looking sort of beige, yellow, or just not very light and bright, a tooth whitening regimen should have you back on track without a large investment of time or money. You can pick up a kit at your local pharmacy, but be forewarned that these kits don’t fit everyone well. An ill-fitting bleaching tray could lead to gum irritation. You can also see your dentist for custom-fit bleaching trays, or you could even ask about laser whitening.

Veneers

If your teeth are slightly crooked in the front, or you have one tooth that’s a bit shorter than the others, you might consider having veneers placed. Veneers are fairly non-invasive: Your dentist will shave off a small portion of your front tooth and will place a veneer, which sits on top of the tooth much like an artificial fingernail sits on top of your natural nail. Usually, veneers are done in pairs or sets.

Braces

While braces are not always considered cosmetic dentistry (they’re actually orthodontia), they can certainly make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. There are many options for adults who want braces; don’t feel as though you have to settle for the “train tracks” type. For example, you could choose to have ceramic braces, lingual braces, or practically invisible braces called Invisalign. This is something to talk to your general dentist about, but you might be referred out to an orthodontist to actually have the work done.

If you are not happy with your smile, don’t think that you just have to deal with it. With so many advances in cosmetic dentistry, your dentist can help you achieve the smile of your dreams! Call our office to schedule an appointment if you are interested in procedures that can change the way you feel about your teeth.