A cosmetic dentist will not only whiten your teeth, but they will also detect any problems, such as tooth decay or gingivitis. These problems can then be treated before the whitening process begins. Of course, home whitening doesn't offer this benefit. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance and aesthetics of your smile.
Common cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers. Cleveland Clinic is a not-for-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not promote products or services that are not Cleveland Clinic products or services.
Many people in zone 39042 try over-the-counter solutions, such as bleaching trays or strips. These treatments work, but not as well as professional solutions. As with most things, what you buy at the store just isn't as strong as what you can get from a medical professional. Plus, store-bought whitening trays are designed to fit everyone's teeth, not specifically yours.
This means that they can become loose and the solution can drip, which can lead to gum irritation. In many cases, aesthetic dentists perform in-office teeth whitening to “jump-start” the whitening process and then provide at-home teeth whitening systems so that their patients can continue to whiten their teeth. Talk to your dentist about your specific aesthetic goals so that you can design a treatment plan that fits your budget and lifestyle. The dentist uses this material to cover and hide cracks, fissure lines (capillary fissures), discoloration, and other cosmetic imperfections.
If chipped, cracked, crooked, or discolored teeth make you feel embarrassed or self-conscious about your smile, talk to your dentist about cosmetic dentistry options. In addition, cosmetic dentists can recognize the signs and symptoms of sensitive teeth and damage to the tooth roots. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a single whitening treatment performed by a dentist can improve tooth whiteness by up to eight shades.
