Which Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Is Right for My Problem?
Feel self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth or gums? Cosmetic dentistry treatments can dramatically transform your smile. However, with all the available treatments, patients often wonder which is right for their smile.
Explore the range of cosmetic dental procedures we offer at Premier Dental and Implant Center in Orland Park, IL, and what concerns each treatment can address. If you're ready to discuss treatment options and the cost of care, contact our office today.
Treatments for Damaged Teeth
There are several options to treat cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth. The type of treatment will depend on the location of the tooth and the severity of the issue.
Porcelain veneers are ideal for concealing damage to the front teeth. When in place, a veneer looks just like your natural teeth. However, because of how thin the porcelain is, it is not a good option for back teeth due to the bite force exerted on those teeth when chewing. A dental crown is often the treatment of choice to address damage to back teeth.
As an affordable alternative to veneers and crowns, you may want to consider dental bonding for very minor cracks and chips.
Treatments for Stained Teeth
You may think that teeth whitening is the only cosmetic dentistry procedure to address stained or discolored teeth, but there are other options available.
Teeth whitening in the office is a great way to whiten your smile by several shades in as little as one appointment. If you have deep stains beneath the enamel, known as intrinsic stains, teeth whitening will not be able to remove those stains.
If you have intrinsic stains, porcelain veneers can conceal discoloration to dramatically whiten your smile. Placing a veneer over the surface of the tooth hides spots and stains that do not respond to professional teeth whitening treatment.
Treatments for Crooked Teeth
When people think of crooked or gapped teeth or a misaligned bite, they may think traditional metal braces are the only option. Braces are often the best option for severe bite issues, but other options like Invisalign® may be a good fit for mild to moderate orthodontic concerns.
Invisalign is an alternative to braces that uses a series of clear aligner trays to correct a range of issues. This discreet alternative is removable and virtually undetectable. Treatment takes about 12 to 24 months depending on the severity.
Another option for mild orthodontic issues is porcelain veneers. Veneers are often referred to as instant orthodontics as they can conceal issues like gaps and minor misalignments in as little as two appointments. However, it is important to remember that dental veneers do not correct the issue; they only conceal it. Veneer treatment can be completed in as little as two appointments at our Orland Park office.
Treatments for Missing Teeth
Missing teeth are often addressed through restorative dentistry treatment. However, they also impact the appearance of your smile. Depending on your level of tooth loss, there are several treatment options to restore your smile.
- Dentures - Dentures are a great option for patients missing all or most teeth along one or both dental arches. Traditional dentures are removable and rely on denture adhesive to remain in place.
- Dental Bridges - If you have several consecutive missing teeth, a dental bridge may be just the fix. A dental crown is placed on a tooth on either side of the gap. These are known as anchoring teeth. The anchoring teeth support the artificial teeth, called pontics.
- Dental Implants - Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that can support crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants provide stimulation to the jawbone to prevent deterioration and bone loss.
Smile Makeovers for Major Dental Work
If you have a combination of issues, a total smile makeover is a treatment that simultaneously addresses multiple issues. Each smile makeover is customized to address your specific aesthetic concerns.
Smile makeovers are also able to address periodontal/gumline issues involving gum recession or aesthetic flaws realted to a gummy smile.
What if I Have Oral Health Issues?
Before cosmetic treatments can occur, you must be in good oral health and free of issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. If you have several issues that impact the health and function of your smile, a full mouth reconstruction is like a smile makeover. Instead of cosmetic dentistry treatments, a full mouth reconstruction combines restorative dentistry treatments to restore the health and function of your smile.
In many cases, restorative treatments like dental implants, dentures, dental crowns, and dental bridges can not only give you a healthy, functional smile, but can also restore the appearance of your smile. Orthodontic procedures like braces and Invisalign can also make it easier to brush and floss and help reduce excessive wear on your teeth.
Avoiding the Dentist Because of Fear? Sedation Can Help
If you have cosmetic flaws with your smile but are avoiding the cosmetic dentist because of dental fear or anxiety, we can help! Sedation dentistry options can allow you to receive the care you need. Our sedation options include oral conscious sedation and IV sedation.
During your consultation, we can discuss your options and create a plan to ensure your dental visit is as comfortable and positive as possible.
Still Not Sure Which Dental Treatment Is Right for You?
We understand that dentistry treatments can be a bit overwhelming. We are here to guide you every step of the way.
During your initial consultation at our Orland Park dental office, your dentist will examine your mouth and discuss your concerns and goals to help determine which treatment may be right for you. Your dentist will then craft a custom treatment plan and our team can then provide you with an accurate timeline and quote so you can plan and budget.
Every person is different and has different goals. Whether you have a yellowed smile or more extensive issues like missing teeth, our comprehensive treatment options ensure you can receive the care you need to achieve the beautiful smile you have always dreamed of in one convenient location.
Set Up an Appointment for a Cosmetic Dentistry Evaluation
To get started on your smile transformation journey, request a consultation by filling out our online form or by calling our office to speak to a member of our team. We look forward to helping you achieve your smile goals.
About Yamen Akhras, DDS
Dr. Yamen Akhras completed training in dental implants from the Misch Institute and the Urban Regeneration Institute. He specializes in treating gum disease, placing implants, and bone and gum grafting.