A cosmetic dentist can perform any number of procedures that focus on improving the look, brightness, and uniformity of your teeth and smile. A healthy smile helps leave a good first impression, it can improve self-esteem, and it can brighten the days of both loved ones and strangers. Below, discover a few common procedures a cosmetic dentist can offer to help give those pearly whites a boost.

A Guide to Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

1. Teeth Whitening

A teeth whitening treatment uses bleaching agents to noticeably lighten one's teeth and remove stains. Stains are a particular problem for avid coffee or tea drinkers and for smokers, and whitening offers a pain-free way to get rid of these blemishes.

The whitening products administered by a cosmetic dentist contain more powerful bleaching agents than those you'd find in over-the-counter products. In-office whitening systems might involve painting the whitening polish onto the teeth or letting it cure with special lights.

2. Veneers

Veneers are razor-thin shells made of porcelain and bonded to the front surface of teeth. They are ideal for covering up imperfections like stains, chips, unusually short teeth, or gaps between teeth. The front of the tooth is filed down to accommodate the size of the veneer, so your teeth are not left feeling bulky or unwieldy afterward.

The procedure typically involves two visits. During the first, the cosmetic dentist will file the teeth, take measurements, and apply temporary veneers. During the second, they will replace the temporary ones by bonding the custom-made permanent veneers into place.

3. Invisalign®

Invisalign are clear plastic aligners that gently straighten crooked teeth. The average Invisalign treatment takes 12 to 18 months, but you'll likely start seeing results within the first several weeks.

Because they are made of clear plastic, they are virtually invisible when you're wearing them, so you can enjoy the benefits of traditional braces without sporting a mouthful of metal. Invisalign are usually worn at least 22 hours a day—you only take them out to eat and drink.

Explore all your cosmetic options by visiting a dentist. Waterford Dental Health is here to help. Serving the Waterford, CT, area, their cosmetic dentists offer a number of treatments, including implants, veneers, and teeth whitening. They also provide routine, preventative, and sedation dentistry services, from checkups and cleaning to fillings and crowns. Call (860) 447-2235 or visit their website to learn more about their services.