A variety of factors, from diet to accidental trauma to genetics to habits like tobacco use, make it so that many of us need outside assistance elevating our smiles to their healthy and radiant best. Thankfully, for those of us seeking this help, cosmetic dentistry is here to lend a hand!
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental science comprised of treatments and procedures meant to improve the appearance and integrity of a person’s smile and bite. The treatments that make up cosmetic dentistry address the alignment, symmetry, and brightness of teeth, and the form and function of the gums and jaw. Among the most popular cosmetic treatments are:
- Dental bonding
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental crowns
- Bridges
- Full and partial dentures
- Teeth whitening
- Orthodontics, from traditional braces to Invisalign® clear aligners
- Temporomandibular joint, or TMJ treatment
Cosmetic Dentistry’s Biggest Benefits
Whether you’ve got discolored, chipped, misaligned, or missing teeth, there’s a cosmetic dentistry procedure to restore your smile to its beaming best! Here are a few of the most significant and impactful benefits of cosmetic dentistry:
- A confidence-building aesthetic boost – Everyone wants a beautiful smile they’re proud of. The feeling of attractiveness that comes with such a smile has a major effect on self-esteem and others’ impressions of us. Having the confidence to speak, smile, and laugh with confidence can even spur professional success.
- Improved bite integrity – A properly aligned bite, as one might get with traditional metal braces or the Invisalign® system, can help prevent issues like headaches, soreness, stiffness in the jaw, and uneven tooth wear. Meanwhile, by restoring the biting and chewing functions, an aligned bite helps to promote better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Easier oral hygiene – An aligned bite without large gaps between teeth facilitates proper oral hygiene practices. This is because there are fewer crevices and hidden spaces in the mouth for bacteria and plaque to accumulate.
- Efficient procedures and long-lasting results – A majority of cosmetic dentistry procedures can be completed in a single visit, often with minimal pain. Patients can often return to their normal routines immediately after a cosmetic procedure, with their results on full display.
- Durability and longevity – The effects of most cosmetic dental procedures far from fleeting. Many times, the impact of cosmetic dentistry lasts a decade or more without needing retreatment. This benefits both a patient’s busy schedule and their wallet by helping to eliminate the need for more complex and expensive procedures in the future.
Finding the Best Cosmetic and Children's Dentistry in Palatine, IL
If you're looking for a cosmetic dentist in the Palatine area to help guide everyone in your family toward a lifetime of bright, healthy, and confidence-inspiring smiles, contact Dr. Michael Unti and the friendly and knowledgeable team at Palatine Complete Dental to schedule a consultation!