We all see photographs in magazines of models with perfect teeth. Their teeth are beautifully shaped and pearly white. After you see them, you might ask yourself, “Why can’t I look like that?” The good news is that sometimes you can! This post will explore some of the options available through cosmetic dentistry that can improve your smile.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on beautifying your smile, with the main focus on improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. The goal is to create a balance, symmetrical and aesthetically-pleasing smile, and one you are proud to show off.
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Change your Tooth Shape?
Yes. You can alter the shape of your teeth with cosmetic dentistry using procedures such as porcelain or plastic polymer veneers, dental bonding or enamel contouring. With veneers, your dentist roughens up the front surface of the teeth to be treated and applies a thin shell of tooth-colored material to improve their shape, size and color. Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to repair a chipped, cracked, broken tooth.
For enamel contouring, the dentist may sometimes be able to remove a small amount of enamel to reshape and improve a tooth’s appearance for teeth that are too long, irregularly shaped or slightly misaligned. It is important to work with a trained cosmetic dentist, as removing too much enamel can damage the underlying tooth and potentially lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental problems.
What is the Best Tooth Shape?
Your best tooth shape is subjective, and varies from person to person, as everyone has unique dental features and facial structure. What is considered aesthetically pleasing are straight and evenly-spaced teeth that are proportional to the size of the face and lips.
Are Square or Round Teeth More Attractive?
Some people prefer the clean lines and sharp angles of square teeth while others prefer the softer, more rounded appearance of round teeth. Tooth shape is not inherently linked to gender, masculinity or femininity. What is desirable varies based on cultural, social and personal preferences. The most important thing is to have healthy teeth and a confident smile, regardless of your tooth shapes.
Change Your Look With Orthodontics
Another way to get a model-ready smile if your teeth are already the shape you like is through orthodontics. Orthodontic treatments, like braces or Invisalign, straighten misaligned or uneven teeth to improve their shape, function and appearance.
We urge you to consult with your cosmetic dentist prior to any procedure, as factors like your dental health, facial structure and desired outcome need to be taken into consideration when recommending a dental treatment plan.
Brighten Your Smile With Teeth Whitening
Factors such as stains from dark-colored foods like coffee or tea, medications, and aging can darken teeth. Natural teeth (not tooth-colored restorations) can be whitened through use of carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide solutions that can permeate dental hard tissues and break down discoloration without thinning or softening teeth. Teeth whitening treatments can include in-office bleaching, dentist-supplied whitening products for use at home, or over-the-counter tooth whitening kits.
Related: Cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening
Cosmetic Dentistry at Advanced Family Dentistry in Reston, VA
Advanced Family Dentistry in Northern Virginia offers a full-service dental practice including preventive and restorative care, dental implants, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry. Our services provide a range of procedures, from subtle adjustments to major repairs so that you’ll be proud of your smile.
Normally, cosmetic dentistry is not normally an emergency, so set an appointment to speak with our dentists about how you’ve like to improve your smile. We’ll review the options best suited for you, and offer you a treatment plan that will get you the results you want, whether it’s a simple improvement or a model-ready smile.
Advanced Family Dentistry is located in Reston, VA. Contact us at 703-390-9191 to schedule your dental appointment.
Dr. Sonny Kim is a Diplomat of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), the highest education level for general dentists in this field.
Advanced Family Dentistry
Dr. Sonny Kim, DMD
11876 Sunrise Valley Dr., Suite 101
Reston, VA 20191
Phone: 703.390.9191
Email: drsonnykim@gmail.com
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