3 Cosmetic Dental Procedures That Will Improve Your Smile

Being able to smile in front of a camera without hesitation is a wonderfully liberating feeling. But many people are self-conscious of their smile for various reasons, and feel like there is no help available to them. Luckily, with advances in dental technology, there is a solution to almost every problem. Take a look below at just three cosmetic dental procedures that will have you saying "cheese" before you know it.

Teeth Whitening

One of the most common dental problems people suffer with is yellowed teeth. Whether it's from the result of years of smoking cigarettes, genetic issues, or just a bad habit of not brushing their teeth as regularly as they should, many people are too conscious to even crack a smile when they have significantly yellowed teeth. But teeth whitening gels are now available through your dentist that can reverse discoloration. Many gels are applied with the aid of heat or even a laser, and can leave you with noticeably whiter teeth after just a single visit to your dentist's office.

Porcelain Veneers

If you have dental issues that are a little more severe than just tooth discoloration - chipped or cracked teeth, for example - then you may be a prime candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers are ceramic shells that are customized for your mouth and provide essentially the same protection as natural enamel. With veneers, you can completely change the color and shape of your teeth while still retaining a totally natural appearance. So while they may not be for everybody - veneers can't improve asymmetrical gum tissue or be attached to teeth that are severely eroded - they are the best option for most people who want to dramatically improve the appearance of their smile. 

Naturally Colored Fillings

Do you need a tooth filled, but don't want to have an unsightly gold or silver filling? You're not alone. More and more people are opting for naturally colored fillings that replicate the look and feel of real teeth. Most fillings are made of a composite resin that acts and feels much like dentin, the series of small tubes that exist beneath the tooth's enamel, but above the pulp and nerve. This resin used by dentists is just as durable as the silver and gold fillings of old, but don't have any of the aesthetic drawbacks. So next time you have a cavity, ask your dentist about getting naturally colored fillings.