Did you know that the story about George Washington having wooden dentures is actually a myth? Interestingly, though, wooden teeth were popular in Japan for many centuries, dating back to the 16th century. Today, no one has to receive wooden dentures from their doctor, and there have been many great improvements to the practice of dentistry. What are some procedures you can expect from modern dentistry?
1. Invisalign
Invisalign is a relatively new option for patients seeking orthodontia who do not want the obvious appearance of metal braces. Invisalign is a series of clear plastic alignment trays that are replaced every several weeks in order to help set teeth. Dental insurance will often cover part of the cost of this appliance. Because they are changed more frequently, they often hurt less than traditional braces. Invisalign is best at solving smaller problems, as it is not ideal for treating vertical issues or crowding.
2. Teeth whitening
The practice of teeth bleaching is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures, not only because it is cheap, but also because it is an issue a large number of people seek correction for. Teeth can become discolored because of smoking, tea, soda, coffee, aging, and more. Dentist care whitening procedures typically involve a 10 to 33 percent carbomide peroxide solution. Dental care insurance will not usually cover this procedure.
3. Veneers
For people who need fixes quickly, veneers are often the answer. These are thin layers, usually made from porcelain or composite materials, that are adhered to the tooth in order to improve and unify the appearance of the mouth. Famous people will often get a full set of veneers in order to get that iconic celebrity smile. Veneers are not the cheapest option for improving your smile with dentist care, though, costing several thousand dollars on average and they need to be replaced after about ten years.