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.
The following are four of the most commonly used dental procedures that can help fix crooked teeth.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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