An awkward bite can also lead to more dental issues over time. For example, when teeth are not aligned, they put uneven pressure against each other and cause chips and breaks. An uneven bite can also cause teeth grinding, also known as bruxism.
For patients with crooked teeth or other concerns about their smile, it may be time for them to explore their treatment options. Here are a few common cosmetic services that can help patients achieve a straighter smile.
For minor adjustments, a dentist can reshape a patient’s teeth by filing off minute amounts of enamel. The process, also known as contouring or enamel shaping, is quick and painless. Typically, a dentist can complete reshaping in a single visit.
Teeth straightening treatment is a standard option for adjusting an uneven bite without reshaping or covering the teeth. It is ideal for crooked teeth, gaps, or a misaligned bite.
The most common teeth straightening treatment options are braces and clear aligners. Both options work via the principle of applying gentle pressure to the teeth to nudge them into place. They slowly adjust a patient’s natural smile over time.
A common misconception is that orthodontic treatment is only for significant bite issues. However, orthodontic treatment is also a viable option for minor adjustments.
Crowns are caps for teeth that are chipped, broken, or decayed. They can also adjust poor tooth shape or small gaps in the patient’s bite.
Dental laboratories fabricate crowns from acrylic or porcelain, then reinforce them with metal to withstand biting pressure. The dentist will fit and bond the crown over the patient’s damaged tooth. Crowns look like natural teeth and can restore the affected teeth’ strength.
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that a dentist will fit and bond to the fronts of a patient’s natural teeth. The shells cover up any chips, discoloration, or crookedness in the patient’s natural smile.
The dentist will shave the patient’s teeth down during the procedure to make room for the veneers. The process is permanent and can be expensive but results in a straight, white smile.
Dental laboratories fabricate veneers from porcelain or composite resin based on a mold of a patient’s teeth. The material is durable and can last for many years, but patients may have to get veneers rebonded as their gums and teeth change over time.
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Whether you need major or minor adjustments, cosmetic dental services can straighten your teeth and improve your smile. Your teeth will continue to shift over time, so do not delay treatment. Contact the team at Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S. to schedule your consultation.
Request an appointment or call Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S. at 805-409-2358 for an appointment in our Santa Barbara office.
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