Cosmetic dentistry is one of those things that many North Americans might assume is just for the rich and famous. But over the past few years, there has been an explosion on the cosmetic dentistry industry, as new technologies and procedures put aesthetic fixes in reach even for those working for an ordinary salary.
In 2015, cosmetic dentistry was estimated to be worth $15.8 billion worldwide, but experts project that by 2024 that number will have risen to $27.95 billion — in no small part because of the increased affordability of cosmetic procedures and the growth of the middle class.
If you are self-conscious about your teeth but have always assumed that dental solutions are beyond your means, here are three cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help anyone get a whiter, more even smile.
1. Chemical Whitening
Off-the-shelf whitening products have long been popular consumer items, but for particularly bad discoloration, they often aren’t enough to do the trick. Cosmetic dentists use safe chemical whiteners that can strip away unsightly stains and render your teeth dazzlingly white after a single visit.
2. Veneers
As we age, our teeth age with us. After years of wear, it is natural for teeth to start looking a little weathered. One way to fix this is by covering them with ultra-thin porcelain veneers that can be applied to individual or multiple teeth.
Veneers are bonded to the underlying tooth, providing a permanent covering that hides stains, chips, and other forms of damage. If you want to find out whether veneers are right for you, visit your Hamilton dental office to explore your options.
3. Invisalign
In North America, braces have long been associated with adolescence — which means that people whose families didn’t have the money to invest in braces when they are young often feel they have missed the opportunity to have their teeth straightened. When you’re a working professional, the last thing you want is to go into a sales meeting with a set of distracting orthodontics on your teeth.
The good news is that with Invisalign, it is possible to realign your teeth without having to wear a lot the brackets, archwires, and elastics that we associate with traditional orthodontic appliances.
Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that slowly shift your teeth into place. Not only does this make the process more discrete, it is also generally less painful and cumbersome, making them a perfect option for adults who want to get a balanced, beautiful smile without drawing undo attention to themselves.
Everyone wants to look as good as possible, and one of the great things about these new developments in cosmetic dentistry is that they democratize procedures that were once only available for the very affluent.
If you have long felt self-conscious about discolored or crooked teeth, visit your local Hamilton dentist today to learn more about the cosmetic dentistry options they provide. The smile of your dreams could finally be in reach!
