Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished your smile looked a little brighter, straighter, or healthier? While it can feel isolating, you’re not the only one with these thoughts. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, restorative, or both, modern dentistry offers solutions for just about every smile-related issue. From minor touch-ups to major overhauls, restorative and cosmetic dentistry can be used to give you a true smile makeover.
Restorative Treatments That Can Build You Up
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing damaged or missing teeth. A great-looking smile starts with a healthy foundation, so this is a great place to start.
- Crowns: Used to cover and protect a damaged tooth, crowns restore both function and appearance. Some dentists even offer CEREC same-day restorations!
- Dental Implants: If you’re missing a tooth (or several), implants are a highly durable and permanent solution that looks and feels just right.
- Tooth-Colored Fillings: Cavities or damage? Modern filling materials blend right in with your natural tooth.
- Bridges: For multiple missing teeth, bridges fill the gap and restore your bite and your confidence.
Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures for Perfect Polish
By contrast, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the appearance of your teeth—color, shape, size, and alignment. Once your oral health is solid, you can truly start to reshape your smile.
- Teeth Whitening: A brighter smile can make a huge difference. In-office whitening is fast and effective, while custom take-home kits offer convenience while delivering quality results.
- Veneers & Lumineers: These ultra-thin porcelain or composite resin shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to instantly fix chips, gaps, stains, or uneven shapes. They’re long-lasting and look incredibly natural.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: While veneers and crowns can somewhat help correct very minor bite issues, if you want straight teeth, Invisalign is the way to go. These clear aligners are discreet and effective for many alignment issues.
Healthy Habits to Keep Your Smile Shining
Fixing your smile is only half the battle. Keeping it in top shape takes a little effort, but it’s totally worth it! Here are the best habits to get into to keep your grin aglow:
- Brush and floss daily to protect your investment.
- Limit staining foods like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Use a straw when drinking acidic or sugary beverages.
- Avoid smoking, which can cause serious discoloration and gum issues.
- Schedule regular cleanings to catch issues early and keep things polished.
With the information in this blog, you now have all the tools you need to rebuild your smile and your confidence. If you’re ready to take the first big step to a new you, give your dentist a call. They can give you a good assessment and work with you to create a path to smile success!
About the Author
If you’re unhappy with the state of your smile, Dr. Jane C. Puskas has the technology and the skills to help you achieve a glowing grin. She graduated cum laude from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine before practicing for several years, eventually moving to Atlanta where she became the first female President of the Hinman Dental Society. Today, she offers exceptional results in both restorative and cosmetic procedures. Call (404) 261-7488 to schedule a consultation at Jane C. Puskas DMD, PC, or visit our website to learn more.