If you are one of the millions of people who are unhappy with how your teeth look, it may be time for you to do something about it. Over the years, cosmetic dentistry has become more and more effective at improving the appearance of patients' teeth. In fact, there are many different cosmetic options available to you that can improve your teeth. Talk to your Encino dentist about cosmetic dentistry today.

Teeth Whitening

One popular way to improve the look of your smile is through a teeth whitening procedure. The quickest and most effective way to do this is to have your dentist perform the procedure in a single appointment in his or her office. He or she will use a combination of whitening gel and a special light or laser to significantly whiten your teeth in a very short amount of time. If you do not want to spend the money on an in-office procedure, your dentist also has the capability to provide you with a customized take-home whitening kit. To do this, he or she will take an impression of your teeth in order to create a set of trays that you take home. You will fill them with whitening gel and wear them on your teeth for about an hour each night for approximately two weeks. Once this is done, your teeth will have become significantly whiter.

Dental Veneers

Another popular cosmetic procedure involves the use of dental veneers. Veneers are thin custom-fitted shells of tooth-colored material that are directly attached to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. To install veneers, your dentist will first have to remove about millimeter of enamel from the front of your teeth to make enough room for them to fit comfortably in your mouth. After an impression is taken, your veneers will be created at a dental lab. Your dentist will do a final check to make sure they fit correctly and then permanently attach them to your teeth. Once put in, they will give your teeth a nice color and cover any small gaps.

Dental Crowns

If you have a single tooth that is chipped, cracked or otherwise disfigured, your dentist may use a dental crown to fix the problem. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is installed directly on top of your tooth to improve its size, strength, shape and/or appearance. To put one in, your dentist begins by reducing the size of your tooth to ensure there is enough room for the crown to fit. After taking an impression of the area, your permanent crown will then be created. Your dentist will then use a special cement to permanently attach the crown. Once put in, a crown will both look and function like any of your natural teeth.

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry or to schedule an appointment, contact your dentist in Encino today.