Adults Have Many Options Today to Get Straighter Teeth

Cosmetic dentistry offers options that can give you that bright, white smile you're looking for. Depending on how far you want to go, your dental pro can provide you with different levels of professional whitening options. Keep in mind, while whitening your teeth at home with DIY options such as toothpastes or cling strips can provide some results, expert-level fixes tend to last longer and give you a brighter smile. What whitening options can cosmetic dentists offer?

In-Office Bleaching

Yes, those at-home kits work when it comes to whitening. But, an in-office procedure is typically more effective. Even if the price seems steep, compare it to buying kit after kit or tube after tube of whitening paste to get and keep your teeth white at home.

In-office bleaching requires the use of stronger chemical agents than the do-it-yourself version. The dental professional is an expert at this, and knows how to safely use bleaching products (even at a stronger level than the over the counter kind). Along with being stronger when it comes to whitening power, cosmetic dentists have bleaching techniques that take far less time than the OTC options. Instead of having to paint on gel, use strips or use pastes a couple times a day for a few weeks, you could get whiter teeth with just one in-office treatment.

Laser Whitening

Technically, laser whitening is bleaching. But, instead of just using a bleaching agent, the cosmetic dentist uses a laser to activate the gel (typically a hydrogen peroxide gel). This speeds up the process and gives you brighter teeth in much less time than a plain bleaching would.

You may need a few trips to the dentist to get the full effect of laser whitening. Even though this can take time, it takes far less than using a whitening toothpaste or an OTC tray system. Laser whitening provides a bright white smile that you aren't likely to get at home.

Porcelain Veneers

If your teeth are more than just slightly yellowed, veneers may be the best option. Patients with severely discolored teeth or discolored teeth that are in some way misshapen can benefit from veneers. Veneers are thin coverings that the dentist applies to the front of your teeth. They are made specifically to fit your teeth and look completely natural. Unlike bleaching, veneers don't change the color of your actual teeth. Instead, they add a new layer to the surface.

Veneers typically require the dentist to remove some of the tooth's existing enamel. This means that you can't take them off and go back to your natural teeth later on. If your veneers crack or dull (which can happen through normal use), the dentist will need to replace them.

Whitening through cosmetic dentistry can turn your so-so smile into one that's Hollywood bright. Picking one type of whitening over another is a completely individual choice. Talking to your dentist and discussing your needs can help you to select the 'just right' process for your mouth's health. For more information, contact companies like Laconi Dental.