It’s important to be happy with your smile. It’s one of the first things people notice about you and it can impact your self-confidence which influences every element of your personal and professional lives.

As cosmetic dentistry improves and advances, there are more and more options available for people looking to improve the look and function of their smile. Here are the five most common cosmetic dentistry treatments provided by your Toronto cosmetic dentist.

1. Dental veneers

Veneers are a common treatment used to repair teeth that are crooked, too far apart, stained or unnaturally shaped. They are made from porcelain and placed over the natural tooth. Depending on the amount of enamel under the veneer, they can last anywhere from 5-15 years.

2. Composite fillings

Remember those dark, shiny, metal fillings used to correct cavities? While they’re still in use, there are now alternatives that look much more natural. Composite fillings are made using a composite resin that can be colour-matched to your natural teeth, making them nearly invisible to the naked eye.

While these fillings are more esthetically pleasing, it should be noted that they are not as durable or long-lasting as traditional metal fillings.

3. Professional whitening treatments

While the whitening strips you can purchase at the pharmacy do have their place, nothing replaces the results of having your teeth professionally whitened. Whitening removes stains inside and outside your teeth and can lighten their colour 5-10 shades in a single visit with your cosmetic dentist. Each session takes about 30-60 minutes, and the results usually last about a year.

4. Dental crowns

Dental crowns are a common and effective treatment to correct broken or damaged teeth. Crowns completely encapsulate the natural tooth and are custom made to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth. Dental crowns are usually made of porcelain as it most closely matches the appearance of the natural teeth. Dental crowns are cemented to the natural tooth or a dental implant, and if properly cared-for they can last up to 15 years.

5. Dental implants

Dental implants are one of the most common solutions for missing teeth because they are effective, permanent, and easy to care for. Dental implants essentially act as a replacement for the root of the tooth. They look like a screw that is surgically embedded into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Once the implant is given time to heal, the dentist will install a custom-made crown that will act as the tooth replacement. Patients must have enough bone density in their jaw to sustain a dental implant to be a candidate for this treatment option.

If you’re unhappy with the look of your smile and are considering cosmetic dentistry, call Lawrence Avenue Dental in Toronto today. We’ll schedule a time to assess your situation and discuss the treatment options that best meet your needs.