Cosmetic dentistry is one of the most popular dental treatments in Calgary among people who want to improve their smiles. It can help correct aesthetic flaws and provide a healthy and attractive smile. Non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry focuses on preserving natural tooth structure where possible. For some people, these treatments may cost less, need fewer visits and carry fewer risks than more invasive work such as crowns or implants. The right choice depends on your teeth, so your dentist will explain the options.
Here are some of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic dentistry options for improving your smile:
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common non-invasive ways to improve a smile. It involves using a chemical bleaching agent to remove surface stains on teeth, leaving them brighter and whiter. Most teeth whitening products can be purchased over-the-counter or from your dentist’s office, depending on what type you need. Professional teeth whitening may require multiple visits, and results vary. Whitening can cause temporary sensitivity and is not right for everyone, so ask your dentist before using any whitening product.
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Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is another non-invasive option for restoring chipped, broken or discoloured teeth. During this procedure, a tooth-coloured composite material is applied to the affected tooth surface to restore its appearance. This material can blend closely with natural tooth enamel. It can last several years with proper care and maintenance.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells made out of porcelain or composite resin designed to cover the front surfaces of teeth to mask aesthetic flaws such as chips, cracks or discolouration. Veneers are custom-made for each patient for a proper fit and color matching. They are less invasive than crowns, but porcelain veneers usually require removing a thin layer of enamel, which cannot be undone. Your dentist can explain the pros and cons for your teeth.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a nearly invisible orthodontic system that uses clear plastic aligner trays instead of metal brackets and wires to straighten crooked or crowded teeth. The length of our Invisalign treatment in Calgary varies depending on how much movement needs to occur, and your dentist will give you an estimate.
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Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry
Some dentists and gum specialists use lasers instead of a scalpel to treat or reshape gum tissue, for example in gum disease. Ask your dentist whether laser treatment is available and suitable for you.
Botox Treatment For Gummy Smile Correction
Botox (botulinum toxin) injections can relax the upper lip muscle for a time, so less gum shows for those who have what’s known as a “gummy” smile. They do not remove gum tissue, and the effect wears off after some months. A gummy smile can have several causes, such as extra gum tissue, lip movement or jaw shape. Botox is a prescription medicine, so ask a qualified dentist or doctor whether it is suitable and safe for you.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth and anchor replacement teeth, usually porcelain crowns or bridges. They can replace one or more missing teeth and help restore chewing and appearance. Implants involve surgery, so they are not a non-invasive option, and your dentist will explain who places the implant, here or with a specialist.
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Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover combines several of the treatments above in a plan designed around each patient’s goals and dental health. It is different from full mouth reconstruction, which focuses mainly on restoring how the teeth work.
How to Choose the Best Non-Invasive Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment
Before you choose any non-invasive cosmetic dentistry procedure, it is important to assess your goals and needs to determine which treatment plan will work best for you.
Here are some questions you should consider asking when selecting a non-invasive Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments.
1. Is it the right fit?
Different treatments deliver different results and might only be suitable for some. For example, Invisalign can treat many spacing and bite problems, but some complex bite issues may need braces or a referral to an orthodontist. Dental veneers or crowns change how teeth look but do not move them.
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It’s important to discuss all available options with your dentist so they can recommend the ideal treatment plan for you.
2. Does it fit within my budget?
Non-invasive dental procedures can vary significantly in cost depending on the complexity of the treatment required and each individual’s unique needs. To plan for costs, speak with your dentist about payment options or insurance coverage before committing to any treatment plan.
3. What kind of time commitment does it require?
Depending on which procedure you select, treatment times can range from one visit (e.g., teeth whitening) to several months (e.g., Invisalign). Ask your dentist how long each procedure will take to determine if it fits into your schedule. Considering follow-up visits may also need to be taken into consideration when making this decision.)
4. What kind of aftercare will I need?
Aftercare varies depending on the procedure, but some common tips include avoiding smoking and limiting coffee and tea, especially after whitening. Getting regular checkups; brushing twice daily; flossing daily; avoiding certain foods that could cause staining, etc. Follow the aftercare your dentist gives you.
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Depending on the issue being treated, more detailed aftercare instructions might need to be followed.
For example, after Invisalign you will usually need a retainer, either a removable one worn as directed or a permanent retainer bonded behind the teeth, plus follow-up visits. Discuss the post-treatment care plan with our dentists in Calgary before undergoing any cosmetic work.
See a dentist before starting any cosmetic treatment, including store-bought whitening, and sooner if you have tooth pain, sensitivity, or sore or bleeding gums.
Next step: Learn about cosmetic dentistry at The Port Dental Clinic in Calgary NE. We are open 7 days a week and accept new patients. Book online or call 403-345-1110.
