Cosmetic Dentistry - Check out the Latest Trends

The appearance of the mouth can greatly impact the physical and mental health of a person. A mouth full of teeth that are chipped or broken can make a person not want to openly smile and even cause a person to not enjoy interacting with others. Studies also suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis (a severe form of gum disease) can play a part in the development of some diseases. There are a number of cosmetic dentistry trends that patients are enjoying so let’s take a look at the top trends for 2021.

Latest Cosmetic Dentistry Trends

• Dental Implants – Even though they have been used by patients for a number of years, an increasing number of cosmetic dentistry patients are turning to dental implants to gain a smile that is more natural in appearance. The technology of dental implants has evolved over the years to give a more realistic appearance than the implants that were used in the past. In general, dental implants can be placed in the mouth in segments or on an individual basis. Dental implants can be used to replace teeth that are missing or broken and they also help patients enjoy a more functional bite with their teeth.
• Invisalign – One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures is straightening the teeth of a patient. Invisalign continues to be a popular treatment option as these invisible braces can be removed from the mouth while a patient is eating and drinking (unlike traditional braces). The straightening of the teeth through Invisalign is performed by placing a series of thin, clear plastic aligners in the mouth to apply constant, gentle pressure to the teeth in order to shift them into a position with better alignment. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before they are switched out for the next aligner that moves the teeth in a specific direction.
• Digital Impressions – The phrase “digital impressions” refers to the process of a cosmetic dentist creating digital scans of the mouth in order to make dental implants, veneers and other items that provide a smile that is aesthetically pleasing. Digital impressions are made with high-resolution cameras that use digital software to produce 3D prints of functional dental molds.  Digital impressions have grown in popularity as they allow patients to more accurately view what the results of their cosmetic dentistry procedure will look like once it is performed.
• Teeth Whitening – The desire for teeth that are white and healthy in appearance remains a top priority for dental patients of all ages. Teeth whitening uses bleach to remove stains on the teeth that give them a dull or discolored look. In recent years, some patients have decided to go for a more “natural in appearance” form of teeth whitening. This means the teeth have a clean look but they are not so sparkling white that they look fake or unnatural.
• Gum Reshaping/Contouring – Laser technology can be used to reshape a gum line that has pulled back or has receded to show more of the teeth of a patient. Gum reshaping is performed to eliminate the look of a gummy smile as well as lessen the chance of an infection in the gums or teeth.
• Veneers – The cosmetic dentistry option known as veneers are made of porcelain or resin-composite materials and they are permanently bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that address a number of cosmetic concerns such as broken, chipped and discolored teeth. Veneers can be applied on only one tooth or multiple veneers can be placed to create a smile that is even and symmetrical in appearance.
• Bonding – Thanks to advances in the technology and materials used for bonding, this cosmetic dentistry technique has grown in popularity due to its ability to perform the procedure in a quick and effective manner. Bonding is when resin is used to fill-in gaps that are located between the teeth or to change the look of imperfections located on the teeth. Bonding is mainly performed on teeth in the front of the mouth. Some of the imperfections that can be addressed include cracked teeth, chipped teeth, discolored teeth and teeth that are not the same length as the surrounding teeth. In addition, bonding helps to protect the teeth from further damage.

Cosmetic Dentistry in the Future

Cosmetic dentistry procedures continue to evolve which means that more patients are choosing dental treatments to make the desired changes in the appearance of their mouth. A healthy and aesthetically pleasing mouth can give a person a good amount of confidence and make them more likely to greet others with an open smile.

Anyone interested in improving the look and functionality of their teeth should visit a cosmetic dentist in order to determine the cause of their dental issues. The dentist can examine the teeth and determine the best cosmetic dentistry option to provide results that are natural and long-lasting in appearance.

- MA