Cosmetic Dentistry for Misshapen Teeth

    OAKTON, VA, June 26, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- If you have misshapen teeth, it could be hurting your self-image. This can impact your relationships both personally and professionally.

If your teeth are misshaped, there are several dental procedures you can do to correct these problems, based on your situation.

Dental Bonding to Correct Misshapen Teeth

For teeth that are slightly misshapen, dental bonding is an effective way to alter the shape of your teeth. During this procedure, a mild etching solution will be applied to your tooth to create small crevices in your tooth enamel. This will allow the bonding material to stick. Next, a composite resin will be applied to the surface of your crooked tooth. This material is carefully picked to match the exact color of your natural tooth. The composite material is then hardened with a curing light, and shaped so that your crooked tooth appears straight. Your newly shaped tooth is then polished for a natural, aesthetically-pleasing look.

The composite material used is not as strong or stain-resistant as porcelain. Over the years, your bonded tooth may pick up stains from coffee, red wine and colas. Wear and tear can also have an impact on the longevity of your bonded tooth. The average composite lasts between seven and 11 years, but can begin to look worn after two. When dental bonding is used on small repairs, it seems to better retain its luster.

Porcelain Veneers to Fix Misshapen Teeth

If your teeth are more severely misshapen, you may opt for porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells that fit snugly over your natural teeth. They are effective in permanently hiding one or more misshaped tooth to create a beautiful, healthy smile.

The porcelain veneers process begins by buffing the front surface of your tooth to remove a small amount of tooth enamel so that your veneers can be securely attached. An impression of your tooth will then be taken and your veneer will be created in a dental laboratory. You will be given temporary veneers to wear as your real veneers are being made.

At your next dental visit, your temporary veneers will be removed and your new porcelain veneers will be placed. The fit will be assessed to ensure they are snug and secure. Once the fit is correct, your veneers will be permanently bonded to your teeth with a bonding material, which is hardened with a curing light. Your new veneers will beautify your misshaped teeth and you will walk out with renewed self-esteem.

Orthodontics to Correct Crooked Teeth

If your teeth are misshapen because they are overcrowded, this can often be corrected with orthodontics.

Braces

Braces have come a long way in recent years. New clear braces are less noticeable, while traditional metal braces are incredibly effective in straightening your smile by moving your teeth in the desired direction by applying constant pressure.

Invisalign

Invisalign are "invisible braces" that are not actually braces. These appliances consist of a series of clear removable trays that fit over your teeth and move them into place by the tooth root. Each set of plastic trays is worn for two weeks straight, only to be removed when you eat, brush and floss.

Invisalign is ideal for adults and those who do not want the look of brackets and wires. These plastic aligners straighten your teeth in less time than traditional braces and do not require the adjusting of wires, so you will spend less time in the dentist's chair.

If you are interested in correcting misshapen teeth, please visit the website for Michael K. Chung, D.D.S. at Softouch Dental Care in Oakton, Virginia (www.softouchdentalcare.com), serving patients in Oakton, Tysons Corner, Reston, Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington D.C. and the Northern Virginia area.

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