Many people underestimate the importance of teeth. Teeth are essential for many reasons, one of which is appearance. Teeth play a huge role in how someone looks and how they feel about themselves. A person with crooked, yellow teeth is likely to feel self-conscious and insecure. Conversely, a person with straight, white teeth is likely to feel more confident and attractive. Studies have even shown that dental disorders have a huge impact on self-esteem.
That’s not to say that everyone needs perfectly straight and white teeth to feel beautiful. There are many different types of beauty, and everyone has their definition of what’s attractive. However, healthy teeth contribute to a person’s overall appearance and make them feel more confident and attractive.
With that being said, there are many different dental cosmetic procedures, and the most popular ones change over time. Here are five of the most popular dental cosmetic procedures people are getting today.
Teeth Whitening
One of the essential things that people are concerned about is the color of their teeth. This is why teeth whitening procedures are so common. Teeth can become discolored for many reasons, such as drinking coffee or smoking cigarettes.
This kind of procedure has two main types: in-office and at-home. In-office procedures are done by a dentist and take about an hour. At-home procedures are done with a kit purchased from a dentist or store. Both types of procedures use bleaching agents to whiten teeth.
The main difference between the two types of procedures is the concentration of the bleaching agent. In-office procedures use a higher concentration of bleaching agents, which leads to faster and more dramatic results. However, at-home kits are less expensive and can be done in the comfort of your own home. There’s also the possibility of doing it incorrectly.
Veneers
Another popular dental cosmetic procedure is getting veneers. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front of teeth. They’re used to change teeth’ shape, size, and color. Veneers are a great way to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, discolored, or misshapen.
The procedure for getting veneers is relatively simple. First, the dentist will clean your teeth and roughen up the surface to help the veneer adhere better. Next, they’ll take an impression of your teeth and send it to a lab where the veneer will be made. Once the veneer is ready, the dentist will bond it to your tooth with a unique adhesive. The entire process takes about two to three weeks from start to finish.
The cost of veneers is around $500 to $1,000 per tooth. However, the price can vary depending on the type of veneer and the dentist.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing or damaged teeth. Dental implants are metal posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone. Once the posts have fused with the jawbone, artificial teeth (called crowns) are attached. Dental implants look like natural teeth and can be used to eat, speak, and smile.
The whole process of getting dental implants can take several months. First, the dentist will place the metal post in your jawbone. Next, they’ll wait for the post to fuse with the jawbone, which can take several weeks or months. Once the post is secure, the dentist will attach the artificial tooth.
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of teeth replaced and the procedure’s complexity. However, dental implants typically cost $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth. It’s more expensive than veneers, but implants are more long-lasting.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth slowly. The aligners are practically invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth.
The process of getting Invisalign is simple. First, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send it off to a lab where the aligners will be made. Once the aligners are ready, you’ll return to the dentist to have them fitted. You’ll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily and change them every two weeks.
The entire process takes about nine to 18 months. The cost of Invisalign is similar to traditional braces, around $3,500 to $5,000.
Making your teeth look good is one way to increase your self-esteem, especially if you’re moving into the city. Thankfully, there are fast dental cosmetic procedures that can help you. You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money, either. Doing these things can get the teeth you want and your self-esteem back.