Cosmetic dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, is often defined as any dental procedure that improves the appearance or aesthetics of one’s smile. While there are cosmetic dental procedures that are just intended to repair the damage, such as cracked or chipped teeth, most procedures are intended to improve the appearance of a person’s smile. 

Many patients turn to cosmetic dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, as a way to make minor, aesthetic improvements to their smiles. Some techniques are also intended to improve the function of a patient’s bite. Others combine both function and beauty into one procedure. 

Types of Procedures Under Cosmetic Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN

Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it can greatly improve the appearance of your smile in just one appointment. We offer at-home whitening trays, as well as in-office treatments. Both options provide dramatic results, but in-office treatments are usually quicker and provide better results.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin shells that are placed onto the front of your teeth to cover up imperfections, such as chips or cracks. Veneers are made from a composite resin material that can be color-matched to the rest of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance. The treatment can be completed in just two easy appointments at our dental office near Indianapolis, IN. 

Dental Bonding

In addition to enhancing the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic bonding can also be used to repair damaged teeth. For instance, if you have chipped a tooth due to trauma or decay, then your dentist can use tooth-colored composite resin to fill in the chip and restore the tooth’s appearance. With the proper care and maintenance, the bonded area can last for several years before needing repair or replacement.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a customized false tooth that is fused between two dental crowns. Usually, these crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap where a tooth is missing. The artificial tooth is cemented into position and functions just like a natural tooth. This restoration can be used to replace one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth in a row. For example, if a patient has two teeth in a row that are missing, the two neighboring teeth are prepared for the bridge, and then the crowns are joined together in the middle with a false tooth in between. Bridges are often recommended for patients who want a permanent solution to their tooth loss. They do require special cleaning and maintenance in order to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria in the gaps left behind by missing teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most versatile forms of cosmetic treatments available, as they replace both tooth roots and crowns. Patients who use dental implants to replace teeth or stabilize dentures are able to eat and speak normally and without any embarrassment. The dental implant process begins with inserting a metal post into the jawbone where the missing tooth was. From there, the metal post is given time to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This can take anywhere from three to six months, but once the post is integrated into the jaw, it’s ready for the crown to be placed on top of it.

Advantages of Cosmetic Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN

There are many reasons to choose cosmetic dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, including to:

• Increase your self-esteem and confidence.
• Have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.
• Improve your bite and chewing efficiency.
• Close gaps between your teeth.
• Whiten stained or discolored teeth.
• Fix minor chips or cracks in your teeth.
• Repair defects in your teeth.
• Replace old metal fillings with tooth-colored fillings.
• Straighten teeth that are crooked or misaligned.
• Change the shape of teeth that are too long or too short.
• Improve the alignment and overall appearance of your smile.

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, contact Carmel Smiles at (317) 581-0215 or visit us at 3091 East 98th Street, Suite 220, Indianapolis, IN 46280.