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What Does A Conservative Approach Mean in Cosmetic Dentistry?

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Orthodontic Aligner

When our smile is less than perfect, we may become hesitant to share it with others. The presence of misaligned teeth or dental decay is something that millions of Americans live with. Some have experienced difficulty getting access to proper care due to the expense and a fear of potential complications. This latter fear often has a foundation in a misunderstanding regarding the nature of dental care. Some may believe that complex surgical procedures are required to address any dental concern. Modern innovation in minimally-invasive procedures and conservative care has made this increasingly less true.

An Introductory Guide To Conservative Dentistry

There has been a rising drive towards conservative practices in all areas of medical practice. This has been driven by the availability of better medical and dental technology and a desire to shorten recovery times. Conservatory practices also reduce the chance of complications occurring as the result of a procedure. There are a number of conservative dental procedures that can be used as part of cosmetic dentistry. Below, we will show a few of the most commonly requested and how they can improve your smile.

  • Dental Whitening: This procedure stands as the single most common cosmetic procedure requested. Professional dental whitening is capable of addressing deep stains and discoloration. The most frequent approach is the use of a peroxide-rich solution that is applied to the teeth. This solution breaks up the proteins that cause the discoloration and can be boosted using a special light. This procedure is completely non-invasive.
  • Clear Aligners: For many years, any form of orthodontic adjustment that changed the alignment, spacing, or placement of teeth required braces. While braces effectively achieve this goal, they’re also affixed to your teeth for the duration. Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic trays that fit over the teeth with the goal of adjusting their position. They have to be worn for no less than 22 hours a day, but that leaves 2 hours of freedom. During those two hours, the wearer can eat anything they want and more thoroughly clean their teeth.
  • Dental Bonding:  Bonding is a form of restoration that doesn’t require alteration of the teeth to place. While it is typically used as part of a restoration, it can be used as a purely cosmetic treatment. When there is no decay to be removed, then the dental bonding can be used following a thorough cleaning. Bonding can be utilized to repair chips, cracks, gaps in the teeth, or uneven teeth.

Every year millions of people invest in treatments like these. They’re experiencing brighter, more beautiful smiles without invasive procedures.

Schedule A Consultation With Your Dentist

If you’re considering receiving cosmetic dentistry, reach out for a consultation with your dentist. They’ll provide you with additional information about the services they provide. Every dental practice has its own suite of options, and more are offering non-invasive choices every day. You may discover that that beautiful smile you desire isn’t just achievable; it’s easy and painless to get!

Dr. Kevin H. Speer
Oak Grove Dental Center takes a comprehensive approach to dentistry that reaches throughout the Oregon communities, streamlining our dental services through an expansive reach of dentists and hygienists. By focusing on informing and educating our patients, we have pride in our ability to provide long-lasting treatments for those within the Portland, OR area.

Dr. Kevin H. Speer
Oak Grove Dental Center takes a comprehensive approach to dentistry that reaches throughout the Oregon communities, streamlining our dental services through an expansive reach of dentists and hygienists. By focusing on informing and educating our patients, we have pride in our ability to provide long-lasting treatments for those within the Portland, OR area.