A New Smile For The New Year

The new year is here! Have you started your resolutions for 2022? For many people, New Year’s resolutions include losing some unwanted pounds, securing a new job or stopping a bad habit, such as smoking. Have you considered a new and improved smile? If you have ever felt insecure about the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help you feel more confident and ready to take on whatever opportunities lie ahead in 2022.

Here are some cosmetic options that can help you address common dental concerns.

1. You Have Crooked, Misaligned Teeth

Having crooked teeth can really impact your self-confidence. Fortunately, Invisalign clear braces are a great option for adults who want to straighten their teeth without wearing traditional, metal braces.

Invisalign aligners look and fit similarly to retainers. A series of smooth aligners slowly shift your teeth into their ideal position. The Invisalign trays are also clear, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. You have the freedom to remove the aligners as needed to clean your teeth or eat — just make sure to wear them for the recommended hours each day. Many patients start noticing results in a matter of weeks! On average, Invisalign treatment time is 12 to 18 months, which means you could enjoy straighter teeth by the end of the year.

2. Your Teeth Are Stained

If you have tooth discoloration and stains caused by years of drinking coffee, smoking, or just normal wear and tear, you might benefit from professional teeth whitening. Your dentist can use advanced whitening agents to quickly remove surface stains from the enamel of your teeth in as little as one office appointment.

Alternatively, dentists offer take-home whitening kits that allow you to brighten your teeth from the comfort of home. Patients are provided with custom-fitted trays and a professional whitening gel to gradually whiten teeth over the course of several weeks. Whitening your teeth is an easy and effective way to improve the way you look and feel.

3. Your Teeth Are Uneven or Irregularly Shaped

Dental veneers can quickly and drastically transform the look of your teeth. The custom-made shells are ultra-thin and made of porcelain. Veneers are bonded to the front surface of each tooth, covering imperfections and improving the color, shape, size or length of teeth. The most common type of veneers are porcelain for their durability, stain-resistance and natural look.

Veneers provide your front teeth with an ideal shape and natural color for many types of dental imperfections including:

• Small chips and cracks on the front teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Permanent stains
• Uneven or misshapen teeth
• Slightly crooked teeth

4. You Are Missing Teeth

If you have lost a tooth due to injury or disease, you don’t have to stay toothless forever! Restoring the tooth with a dental implant is an excellent, long-term tooth replacement option. Dental implants are made from durable titanium and can replace your entire tooth from root to crown. They are designed to mimic your natural teeth in shape, size and color. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime!

Refresh Your Smile Today

With the new year in full swing, there’s never been a better time to start fresh with improved teeth. At McLean DDS, we offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry options to enhance your smile’s appearance.