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The Psychology of Cosmetic Dentistry Work

We all suspect that how we look makes a difference in our lives. Think of the days when everything is going fine - that's a day you're feeling good and probably looking good.

In our teens, looks are everything. But as we get older, we tend to take our appearance for granted, and rely instead on our skills and professional competence to make up for any "cosmetic" imperfections.

Well, "cosmetic" is more than skin deep. We form very real biases about the people around us, even as adults, based on the simple fact of appearance. And the most critical factor in such judgments, according to copious research, is the teeth.

Yes, women are concerned about shape, as men are impressed by height. But everyone reacts the same to a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether we like it or not, people with straight white teeth are perceived to be more honest, more productive, more out-going, trusting, successful - you name it - than their counterparts with a missing tooth or broken teeth.

Your dentist has seen this psychology at work. For his or her patients, children and adults alike, cosmetic dentistry has made a tangible improvement not just in smiles, but in the quality of lives. A smile enhanced by restorative dentistry brings dramatic changes - changes more than "skin deep."

With new materials and techniques - tooth bonding, teeth bleaching, dental veneers, invisible braces - your cosmetic dentist is excited about the "magic" he or she can make. They've seen self-esteem grow before their eyes. Your dentist can help you look good, feel good, and get on with a healthy, vital life. Cosmetic dentistry? Go for it!

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Choosing A Tooth Bleaching Product for a Brite Smile

Advanced dental techniques now provide consumers with exciting, new options for enhancing their smiles. Revolutionary methods are now available for teeth bleaching to make smiles sparkle!

Teeth bleaching or tooth whitening lightens the color of teeth whether darkened from age, coffee, tea or tobacco. Its brightening effects can last up to five years after the treatment depending on your personal habits.

Is Teeth Bleaching Right for You?

Tooth bleaching has a higher than 90% success rate. It is tough on stains but gentle on your teeth! Results vary depending on whether or not your teeth are stained from smoking, from taking certain medications such as tetracycline during tooth development, or from fluorosis, a condition occurring when too much fluoride is used.

Teeth Bleaching will not lighten fillings or artificial materials used in dental repair such as dental crowns, porcelain veneers, etc. Your dentist may discourage treatment if you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, teeth with worn enamel or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Several Options for Bleaching are Available

Some teeth bleaching treatments are performed in the dental office using an in-office tooth bleaching system, such as laser bleaching. This method lightens teeth instantly.

The same results may be obtained more economically through dentist-supervised, at-home teeth bleaching, but takes longer to achieve. Some tooth bleaching systems, which bleach your teeth while you sleep, work in 10 to 14 days (or more accurately nights)! Others bleach your teeth from two to four hours a day requiring three to six weeks to complete.

It's important to know that certain types of stains respond better to different types of teeth whitening materials. In such cases, your dentist may recommend one method over another.

Five Steps to a Bright Smile

• Your dentist will first examine your teeth and gums and discuss the procedure best suited to your individual needs. Any cavities or gum problems must be treated before teeth bleaching can begin.
• The in-office method generally takes one to three hours and results in an immediate, noticeable change.
• For the at-home tooth whitening treatment, special molds will be made of your teeth; these will be used to make custom-fitted flexible trays to hold the tooth bleaching gel comfortably in your mouth.
• When you get your teeth bleaching trays, you'll receive instructions about wearing them. These instructions must be carefully followed. Only the tooth whitening product materials provided by the dentist can be safely used.
• After completing the treatment, your teeth will be checked by your dental provider to discuss the results.
• Flash your new bright smile. Your teeth will radiate a bright new look!

Safety

Research over the last five years has proven tooth whitening products to be both safe and effective. The American Dental Association's seal of approval has been given to a wide range of teeth bleaching products. Generally, the only side effect from treatment may be some sensitivity to hot and cold foods. If this occurs, sensitivity normally disappears within 48 hours.

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICO

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.