One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, and issues like chips, cracks, stubborn stains, or misalignments can make you feel self-conscious. You might even try to remain tight-lipped rather than socialize with others if you’re overly worried about being judged.
Fortunately, your dentist can improve your appearance and boost your confidence with one or more cosmetic services. However, many patients have questions before committing to these elective procedures, like how long their treatment will take. Continue reading to learn what to expect from these 3 popular solutions!
Option #1: Porcelain Veneers
These thin ceramic shells are customized to be just the right size, shape, and shade, then are cemented over the front surfaces of your teeth to hide areas of concern. They’re a versatile way to address numerous flaws, including minor dings or cracks, deep discoloration, and mild gaps or overcrowding.
Being fitted with these durable porcelain restorations usually takes at least two separate appointments spanning several weeks. Once your dentist thins your enamel so the covers will fit correctly, they’ll make impressions of your mouth and send the information to a dental lab to begin building them. It can take a couple of weeks for the final product to be delivered and cemented in place, so your dentist will likely provide temporary ones to wear to safeguard your smile in the meantime. Thankfully, veneers can last 15+ years with the right care, making them an excellent long-term investment.
Option #2: Dental Bonding
This treatment addresses many similar issues to veneers but usually costs less and doesn’t require an irreversible change to your enamel. For this procedure, your dentist applies a small amount of color-matched composite resin directly to your teeth. Then, they mold it into the ideal shape before hardening it with an ultraviolet curing light.
Dental bonding allows your dentist to potentially mask several aesthetic concerns in a single, hour-long appointment. If you’re worried that you’re exchanging convenience for longevity by choosing this service, you can fortunately set your fears aside. The results often last 10 or more years if they’re properly maintained.
Option #3: Candid Pro Clear Aligners
You might consider your gapped or crooked teeth more of an aesthetic frustration, but dental misalignments can also detract from your oral health. For instance, if your teeth overlap, it’s harder to reach all sides to thoroughly brush and floss them, allowing plaque and bacteria to accumulate. This can increase your vulnerability to injuries, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Thankfully, your dentist can straighten your smile with Canid Pro Clear Aligners. Unlike traditional braces, these transparent plastic trays fit snugly over your teeth to reposition them gently over a designated period. Many patients complete treatment within 12 to 18 months, though it could be more or less based on your unique situation.
If you have an upcoming event and want to look your best, let your dentist know at your cosmetic consultation so they can recommend services to achieve your goals in time!
Meet the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam enjoys helping families in Burien improve their daily lives by enhancing their smiles. He earned his dental doctorate at the Temple University in Philadelphia and has pursued continuing education opportunities in various topics like CEREC same-day restorations, dental implants, and sedation. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages, including cosmetic treatments. Whether you want a brighter grin or to straighten your teeth, he is happy to help! You can request a consultation on the website or by calling (206) 242-4477.