By Arthur Kezian
Whether you’re feeling a little insecure about the shade of your teeth, the shape of your teeth, or the condition of your teeth, fear not! A good dentist can make you look your very best, thanks to these 5 advances in dentistry:
1. Composite materials
For decades, the only way to fill a cavity was with silver that turned darker and darker as time went on. Today, composite materials can be used for everything from filling cavities, to filling gaps between teeth, to veneers.
What exactly are they made of?
In the cosmetic dentistry world, “composite” means that it has resin in it. This resin is easier to apply than other materials, and it bonds better to your teeth. Overall, it gives you a strong hold and isn’t as likely to break or chip as older materials are. As an added benefit, a good dentist can custom-blend the resin in your composite products, so that they match the exact shade of your teeth.
- 2. Gum sculpting
Hate that “gummy smile” that pops up in every picture you take? Thanks to gum sculpting, it can be a thing of the past! This new technique uses special lasers to remove excess gum tissue around your teeth. As a result, more of your actual tooth will be exposed – meaning that your small teeth will look longer.
3. Teeth whitening
White and bright teeth have become a big part of the dental world! Years ago, you did not have the option to whiten your teeth. Whether the discoloration was from drinking too much coffee and tea, or because of age, you had to deal with a stained smile. Today, a good dental professional can give you custom made bleach trays so you can whiten your teeth whenever you would like, and in the comfort of your own home.
4. Porcelain
Since it can be used for both veneers and caps, porcelain is a great way to cover up damaged and discolored teeth. As long as you take care of your porcelain dental work, it will make your smile brighter and whiter for years!
5. Dental implants
Years ago, if you lost a tooth, you had to deal with a gap in your smile. If you lost a lot of teeth, you had to settle for dentures. Today, neither of those options is necessary, thanks to dental implants!
What are they?
Dental implants are artificial roots that are screwed directly into your jaw during surgery with a dental professional. The newest implants are made out of titanium – meaning they are just as strong as natural teeth.
Once the “roots” are in place, your cosmetic dentist can place a crown or bridge on top of them. Today’s implants are so advanced that no one will know they’re not your natural teeth!
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777