4 Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures to Fix Misaligned Teeth
Dental patients who struggle with misaligned teeth can benefit greatly from cosmetic dentistry. This branch of dentistry focuses on the enhancement of the teeth and gums. However, it is important to fix crooked teeth not only for appearance but to keep oral health in optimal condition. Misalignment of the teeth can make it much more difficult to properly clean them, which can result in the development of gum disease and cavities.
Fixing misaligned teeth with cosmetic dentistry procedures
The following are four of the most commonly used dental procedures that can help fix crooked teeth.
1. Braces
Braces are the most common treatment option used to treat severe misalignment of the teeth and jaws. This dental device consists of metal bands that are usually placed on the back teeth. Small metal squares called brackets are adhered to each tooth and a wire is placed in the bands and run through the brackets.
Braces work by applying a continual amount of pressure to help teeth slowly shift into the desired spots. They often need adjustments from the dentist. The length of treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment, but the usual time frame for braces is around one to three years for the majority of patients.
2. Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps, normally made of porcelain or ceramic, that are created to match the color of a patient’s natural teeth. These are used to cover the visible part of the tooth and are especially helpful for fixing problems such as gaps between the teeth. Crowns are most often used in more minor cases of misalignment and can potentially last for up to 15 years.
3. Veneers
Cosmetic dentists often use veneers as a treatment option for crooked teeth. Veneers are thin tooth covers that are custom-made to fit and bond to the patient’s teeth. These are typically made of either porcelain or composite resin and are extremely durable. They are made in a lab and fully customized to ensure a proper fit. Veneers are long-lasting, making them a useful option for slight misalignment or gaps in the teeth.
4. Dental bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure similar to veneers, with the main difference being that the composite materials do not need to be sent off to a lab to be created. These tooth-colored, composite resin shells can be applied in the dental office in one visit. In this procedure, the teeth are roughened slightly, then a bonding material is placed so the resin shells can adhere to the teeth. An ultraviolet light is then used to harden the material. Bonding is an excellent choice for teeth that have only a slight misalignment and is one of the less invasive cosmetic dentistry procedures available.
Conclusion
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the overall appearance of a patient's teeth. Correcting misaligned teeth is beneficial for a patient’s overall oral health and can also help patients feel more confident in their smiles.
Request an appointment here: https://www.gablesexceptionaldentistry.com or call Gables Exceptional Dentistry at (305) 203-4132 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Dental crowns stand out among dental restorations as versatile and effective solutions for various oral health issues. A dental crown, or "cap," is designed to cover and encase a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength, function, and appearance.Over the years, advancements in dental technology have led to the development of various types of dental…
Dental sleep medicine treatment focuses on treating sleep apnea and other related conditions. More dentists are choosing to practice in this line of work because there are actually a lot of good dental sleep apnea treatments available to patients. Modern-day dentistry has evolved quite a bit, which has allowed for the evaluation of all kinds…
Whether you have a cracked, chipped, or decayed tooth, a dental crown can restore it to its original shape. With proper care, these restorations can last about 15 years. The good news is that caring for crowns is straightforward, with most patients not needing to change their oral hygiene routine.Dental crowns are essentially caps that…
Dental crowns are one of the most popular and effective restorations dentists use to restore and protect damaged teeth. They are tooth-shaped caps that cover your natural, damaged tooth. While the procedure is performed in two appointments, it is relatively straightforward and involves little to no discomfort.Several types of dental crowns are available, each with…