Cosmetic dentistry focuses on procedures designed to enhance the beauty of your smile. These treatments may correct minor flaws, or they could completely transform your smile with a complete smile makeover. Whether you are looking for a simple teeth whitening treatment or are interested in more extensive repairs, you can trust the highly-rated team at Antioch, TN.

Teeth Whitening

A beautiful, white smile is a confidence booster. However, over time, teeth can become discolored by food, drinks and habits like smoking. Teeth whitening removes unsightly stains, restoring your natural tooth color.

The process involves a whitening gel with an active ingredient such as hydrogen peroxide which reacts to the chromogens in your teeth and lightens them. Your dentist will usually use a barrier to protect your gums, cheek and tongue before applying the product. Then you simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for twice a day applications over 14 days or longer if needed.

While whitening is the most commonly performed cosmetic dentistry antiochtnprocedure, it’s important to remember that it isn’t permanent. Your teeth will need touch-up treatments regularly to maintain their bright appearance. Also, the treatment won’t work on dentures, fillings and crowns. In these cases, veneers or bonding would be better options.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are wafer-thin porcelain or resin composite shells that cover the front of your teeth to change their appearance. They can be used to close a gap, brighten your smile and fix chipped or worn down teeth. They can also address cosmetic issues like crooked or misshapen teeth, squinting, or uneven tooth lengths. Veneers are typically not reversible as your dentist will need to remove enamel to apply them.

You may be able to avoid this by choosing “prepless” veneers which require less enamel removal and are reversible. You will need to limit your diet to soft foods for a few weeks while the veneers are being prepared, and you’ll want to avoid biting or chewing hard items like ice cubes, to avoid fracturing your natural teeth or veneers.

Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, but your dentist Antioch TN recommends that you avoid dark drinks and cigarettes. You should also take good care of your veneers by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for regular checkups.

Dental Bonding

A great alternative to veneers, tooth bonding can correct cosmetic dentistry antiochtnimperfections like chips, gaps, and discoloration. It is typically done in one appointment and doesn’t require any anesthesia. It also offers a lower risk than other cosmetic treatments and is totally reversible.

Your dentist starts by using a shade guide to select a composite resin color that closely matches your natural teeth. They then roughen your tooth’s surface and coat it with a conditioning liquid to help the resin stick. Next, they apply the putty-like resin to your tooth and mold it into shape. Finally, they shine a special light on it to harden the material.

You can keep your dental bonding looking its best by following a regimented oral care routine and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings. It is important to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, smoking, or other habits that could damage the composite. It can last up to ten years before needing repairs or replacements.

Invisalign®

Cosmetic dentistry addresses problems that affect your smile's appearance and may include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental bonding, and straightening with Invisalign®. Your dentist can make a significant difference in the appearance of your smile with these procedures. The results can boost your self-esteem and help you project a positive image to the world.

During the first consultation, your Swish Dental dentist will evaluate your teeth and goals and determine if Invisalign is right for you. If it is, a 3D scan of your teeth will be taken to create a customized treatment plan.

Invisalign full uses a series of clear aligners to change the position of your teeth. This treatment option is ideal for patients who want to straighten their teeth without the use of brackets and wires. Invisalign Lite is also available for those with less complex alignment needs. Invisalign Lite has a fixed number of clear models and is generally used to prepare the teeth for cosmetic dentistry antiochtnwork like veneers or bridges.