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The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry would describe Cosmetic Dentistry as any positive change to the smile. YES! But how can you decide if cosmetic dentistry is right for you? Let’s break it down.
The most important part of any aesthetically pleasing smile is good oral hygiene. Clean teeth not only appear whiter with good oral hygiene, but they also appear more uniform in color. However, a shining star is only bright in the night sky. That means healthy gum tissue plays a huge role in the cosmetically pleasing smile. Gums that are healthy appear bright pink with a subtle texture to their surface. The borders frame the teeth with crisp margins that peak in a sharp triangle between the teeth. Unhealthy gums can appear glossy and red with rounded papilla in between the teeth. This inflamed gum tissue can cover the teeth and make them appear smaller. Brush twice, floss once – a daily routine with these three events sets the foundation for a perfect smile.
Step two, consult with a DOCTOR! I can’t stress this enough: quick home remedies are rarely effective and often result in more harm than good. Mail order braces, oil pulling, charcoal products, and homemade bleach can all be dangerous without FDA approval and endorsement from the American Dental Association. There are millions of ways to achieve a cosmetically pleasing smile, but we only have one set of teeth to improve. Let an expert help you choose the best option for you.
Have a plan. Cosmetic dentistry doesn’t always mean veneers and makeovers that cost thousands of dollars. Sometimes subtle changes can improve the appearance and confidence of a person’s smile. Cosmetic dentistry should always serve as function over fashion. Consider restoring decay and replacing missing teeth to create a functional smile before moving on to elective therapies. Discuss the long-term implications of your treatment with your doctor. Maintenance is a critical part of cosmetic treatment so stay within your budget for the best long-term outcomes!
Cosmetic Dentistry can be anything that brings confidence to your pearly white display. What does Cosmetic Dentistry mean to you?
If you have further questions or want to know more about cosmetic dentistry, please give us a call or visit our social media page!
The Team at Ethan Long, DDS
