by Anonymouse

Created on: September 06, 2008   Last Updated: May 21, 2009

Advances in cosmetic dentistry have helped countless people feel better about their appearance. After all, a gleaming white smile is a crucial key to high self esteem. For patients seeking a flawless grin, and who have the means to cover cosmetic work themselves, dentists apply a combination of these procedures:

Teeth Whitening

Whitening covers stains and discoloration of teeth. It has already provided brighter smiles for countless patients. Ways to whiten include chemical and mild acid treatments, abrasive teeth brightening, and lasers. Chemical bleaching can be completed during one dentist appointment and the results last for over a year. It can also be done at home with supplies and directions from the dentist. Other in-office methods involve a special gel that absorbs light and penetrates enamel. The fastest method of all is laser whitening, but it's also the most expensive. Costs for these procedures range from 400-1,000 dollars.

Accelerated Orthodontics

While ordinary braces can take years to provide the desired result, accelerated orthodontics can take as few as three months! This quicker method of straightening teeth is also less painful. One visit will call for anesthesia, and after that, the patient's progress is closely monitored. Teeth are adjusted as needed. Since accelerated orthodontics requires special training, and because it's still unfamiliar to many, finding a qualified team may be difficult. Costs range from approximately 3,000-5,000 dollars.

Gum Surgery

Gum recession is an inevitable result of age. Unfortunately, it makes teeth seem longer and causes people to look older. For this reason, the correction of a "toothy" smile can lead to a youthful glow. A much different surgery is performed on those who have excessive gingival display, or a "gummy" smile. A laser is used to remove part of the gums, further exposing the teeth, thus creating a more attractive smile. Both surgeries improve overall gum health. Their costs range from 500-2,000 dollars.

Contouring, Reshaping, and Bonding

Overlapping, crooked, and chipped teeth can now be improved in one sitting! Tools used for contouring and reshaping may include abrasive strips, a sanding drill, or a laser. This is only meant to alter minor imperfections, but it makes a major difference. The process is simple; no anesthesia is needed. Costs range from just 40-300 dollars per tooth. Patients often have both contouring and bonding done in a short period of time. For bonding, resin is bonded

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