How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Boost Your Self-Confidence

As a dentist, it’s always rewarding to help a patient with their oral health, but there’s something especially moving about how a cosmetic dental treatment can completely transform a person’s self-esteem. Patients tell us about the lengths they go to hide their teeth—always smiling with tight lips and covering their mouths when they laugh. Seeing these same patients leave our office smiling proudly is one of the best rewards a dentist can get.

Here are some ways cosmetic dentistry can boost your self-confidence.

Just like our skin and hair, our teeth also change as we get older. The enamel becomes thinner, which turns our pearly whites to more of a dull yellow. If you start your day with a cup of coffee or tea and end it with a glass of red wine at dinner, it can also cause your teeth to become discolored. Teeth whitening treatments are a simple, affordable way to have a more youthful, vibrant smile.

The best option for whitening teeth is in-office whitening from a dentist. During this treatment, a strong whitening agent is applied to your teeth, then a special light is used to activate it. In less than an hour, your teeth can be up to seven shades lighter. If the stains on your teeth are more mild, an alternative to in-office bleaching is an at-home teeth whitening kit. These kits are stronger than over-the-counter whitening treatments, allowing you to get impressive results in as little as two weeks’ time.

If only one or two teeth are stained, microabrasion, cosmetic bonding, and even dental veneers can be used to correct the discoloration.

Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dental treatment because so many patients have complaints about stains, but teeth shape and size is another source of insecurity. Some patients think their teeth are too big; others complain that they’re too small. Some think their teeth are too varied in size, while others think they’re too flat. Gaps and chips are also a popular reason for seeking cosmetic dentistry.

The methods used to refine the shape of your teeth depend on your concerns and the look you want to achieve. Teeth that are too long may be shortened, while teeth that are too small may be augmented with bonding or covered with dental veneers. Both bonding and veneers can be used to close gaps and correct chipped teeth.

If someone were to ask you what you’re unhappy with about your smile and your answer would be “everything,” dental veneers may be the best solution for you. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to your teeth. They can be used to correct a wide range of cosmetic imperfections, including minor misalignment, gaps, stains, and tooth shape. With veneers, we essentially start with a clean slate and create a brand new smile for you.

If you’re self-conscious about your smile, let us help restore your confidence. Contact us today at 203-227-2520 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Geni.