Improving the appearance of your smile may be a desire you have had for a very long time. Whether you have yellowed, crooked, or gapped teeth, or would like a more discreet option for a crown or filling, knowing what you can expect from a cosmetic dentistry procedure and if it is worth the time spent in the chair and the cost will help you decide which procedure is right for you.

Porcelain is an incredible material that has taken tooth restoration to the next level. It has a translucent quality that is very similar to natural tooth enamel and it is very hard and long-lasting. It is also stain-resistant and has a lower chance of causing an allergic reaction than other types of material used in dentistry. Porcelain is used in many different ways in cosmetic dentistry and can be an excellent option for your needs.

If you are very dissatisfied with the appearance of your smile because you have teeth that are short, misshapen, or damaged with chips or cracks, porcelain veneers may be the best solution for your smile. Porcelain veneers are one of the more expensive options in cosmetic dentistry but they can be treated like normal teeth and they last for 20+ years. Each veneer is handcrafted so that it fits over the front of your tooth and looks completely natural in your mouth. Depending on what is needed, a porcelain veneer can be anywhere from $500-$2500 per tooth. But having a perfect smile that lasts decades with no additional care besides normal oral hygiene makes porcelain veneers well worth the cost.

Opting for porcelain crowns and fillings or even having old amalgam filling removed and replaced with porcelain is a wonderful way to upgrade your smile. The porcelain will blend in and you will only see beautiful, healthy teeth instead of dark, metallic spots in your mouth, indicating cavities and dental work. A porcelain crown can be upwards of $800 but because it is needed for tooth health, insurance may cover part of the cost. If you only need one crown, the cost may be well worth it so the crown stays unnoticed in your mouth.

Teeth whitening is one of the most requested forms of cosmetic dentistry. You can easily improve your smile by a fast, one-time appointment procedure that leaves you with dazzlingly white teeth. There are many over-the-counter options that can be very affordable to whiten your teeth. You will have to be sure you follow the instructions very carefully so as not to increase the likelihood of causing your teeth to become sensitive or even damaged. If you are wanting to have your dentist whiten your teeth in the office, you are looking at a procedure that costs around $500 but can last for several years if oral hygiene is routinely done. A bright smile is always worth it.

For a less expensive option to repair minor imperfections, esthetic bonding can be applied to the tooth to hide chips, cracks, and even gaps between teeth. It is a relatively more affordable option than porcelain veneers though it does not last as long and the bonding can be stained by foods and dark-colored drinks. But if you have only a small imperfection and want a quick fix, esthetic bonding may be just the right procedure for you.

If you are in St. Augustine, FL, and would like to discuss cosmetic dentistry options with a friendly, helpful dentist, give Dental Remedies a call today!