I love that my family dentist is tech-savvy. It's so easy to book a dentist on his smartphone app if I have a tooth problem or if anyone in my family needs emergency problems (I can choose either my normal dentist or another dentist in his practise depending on availability). He also has some great cameras so that we can see exactly what is going on during treatment. I prefer not to see this, but my kids love to be able to see the dentist using his specialised tools to clean and repair their teeth. This blog has some tips on finding a tech-savvy dentist to help give your family the best possible dental care.
People with discoloured teeth may feel unattractive, a state that can lead to low self-esteem, isolation and even depression. The good news is that it's treatable, and all you need to do is visit a cosmetic dentist or dentist specialising in teeth whitening. Here's what to expect when you visit a dentist for teeth whitening.
Examination And Question & Answer Session
Your dentist may either start by asking you various questions about your condition or want to take a look first. A visual or physical examination helps the dentist gauge the extent of your condition, which enables them to recommend the most suitable treatment solution.
Expect questions like when you first noticed the discolouration and what constitutes your diet and oral hygiene routine. Your answers will help the dentist know the root cause of your condition.
The dentist will then highlight the different teeth discolouration treatment options and their price.
Teeth Discolouration Treatment Options
1. Teeth Cleaning
If your discolouration is minor, meaning it's something that can be washed off using dental teeth cleaning tools, your dentist may recommend teeth cleaning. This might probably be the cheapest and most effortless teeth whitening method. Remember, it's not for those with more advanced discolouration.
2. Teeth Whitening Gels
Whitening gels are also used for minor teeth discolouration, but you need a dentist to give you a prescription. This is because your teeth might be sensitive; if they are, teeth whitening gels might damage them. Also, for this reason, dentists will caution against buying self-prescribed over-the-counter teeth whitening gels.
3. Veneers
Veneers are a covering that is cemented on the surface of your teeth to hide discolouration, chips or even cracks. They are used for more severe cases of teeth discolouration, and depending on the procedure or your current condition, the dentist may use local anaesthesia.
Local anaesthesia is required because the dentist has to drill away a layer of your tooth, which can be painful. This is important to create room and a surface to attach the veneer.
4. Bonding
Bonding may have some similarities to veneers, but instead of cementing a cover or drilling away part of the discoloured teeth, the dentist applies a coloured resin material onto the teeth. That's why bonding is reversible while the veneer installation process isn't.
Choosing a Treatment Option
It's best if you let your dentist recommend the best treatment option. However, if the dentist suggests several treatments, consider factors like cost, appearance, longevity and the treatment process itself when making your choice.
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