A few years ago, I realized that I was thinking about dental care all wrong. Instead of listening carefully to my dentist and making the necessary changes, I assumed that he was ultimately responsible for making sure that my teeth stayed healthy. Unfortunately, I developed a few serious cavities because I failed to properly brush and floss my teeth, and I knew that it was my fault. I decided to start taking notes at my dental checkups and carefully abiding by the dentist's orders. The difference was almost miraculous. This blog is all about working with your dentist to improve your result.
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Working With My Dentist
Cosmetic Dentistry Options For Tooth Enamel Erosion
Siiri Puro
Surface stains on your teeth caused by certain foods and drinks and by smoking cigarettes can be effectively treated with either over-the-counter bleaching strips, bleaching trays, or in-office laser bleaching treatments. Conversely, if you have enamel erosion caused by consuming highly acidic foods and drinks, from taking certain medications or dietary supplements such as vitamin C, or as a result of having acid reflux disease, bleaching treatments may not be effective. This is because acid erosion can make your tooth enamel thin and transparent. Because of this, the dark yellow dentin of your teeth may show through your thinned tooth enamel. Here are some effective cosmetic dentistry interventions to consider if you have a dull smile as a result of enamel erosion.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers can hide certain tooth imperfections such as cracks and discolorations. Veneers are thin shells that are made from porcelain or a special type of composite resin. Before your cosmetic dentist attaches the veneers to your teeth, they will need to prepare the surface of your natural teeth so that the shells adhere better. To prepare your teeth, your dentist will remove a very small layer of your tooth enamel. The veneer cosmetic dentistry procedure may take a couple of office visits, however, afterward, you can resume all of your normal activities afterward, including eating and drinking.
Dental Bonding
Another effective cosmetic dentistry procedure for concealing dentin-related discoloration from enamel erosion is tooth bonding. Your dentist will apply a special composite material to your teeth that closely matches their color. In addition to changing the color of your natural teeth, bonding can also alter the shape and size of your teeth and repair chips.
After the composite material has been applied, your dentist will use a dental heat lamp to cure and set the composite resin so that it hardens and properly adheres to your natural teeth. Unlike porcelain veneers, the tooth bonding procedure typically does not require the removal of your dental enamel to prepare your tooth. Bonding can last for years, however, your may need to see your dentist periodically for minor "fill-ins".
If you have a dull smile as a result of enamel erosion, make an appointment with your dentist to learn more about the above cosmetic dentistry procedures. With proper at-home care and professional cleanings and dental examinations, you will be able to enjoy your cosmetic restorations for many years to come.
To find out more about cosmetic dentistry, contact a company like Kids Choice Dental Vision and Braces.
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