Cosmetic dentistry can be the solution for a range of dental concerns, both aesthetic and oral health-related. The Tarheel Family Dentistry offers solutions for enhancing the appearance of your smile, working with you on an individual basis to meet your needs and goals.
Dr. Lee and our associates are experienced in the use of cosmetic dental treatments for making over smiles and improving the long-term oral health of our patients. We use high-quality materials, advanced techniques and take a personalized approach to your needs for the best possible result.
Your Cosmetic Consultation
A smile makeover starts with a consultation with your dentist at Tarheel Family Dentistry. This provides the opportunity for you to discuss your aesthetic goals and to thoroughly evaluate the health and function of your smile. The goal of your smile makeover is to give you the smile you desire while supporting the long-term stability of your oral health. If there are any underlying dental problems, addressing them will be a part of your treatment plan so that your outcome is optimal. Dr. Lee will meet with you to examine your teeth, gums, and jaw joints before recommending any cosmetic dental treatments to meet your needs.
Cosmetic dental services include:
- Teeth Whitening: We offer professional teeth whitening to brighten your smile and give you a more youthful appearance. For patients with stains that are considered resistant to bleaching products, we offer treatments for changing the color of your teeth with permanent results. These can include dental crowns and veneers.
- Tooth Bonding: Cosmetic dental bonding can be used for a variety of concerns, including tooth discoloration and damage.
- Porcelain Veneers: Offering both subtle and dramatic smile makeovers, porcelain veneers can change the color and shape of your teeth with natural-looking results.
- SureSmile: Clear SureSmile aligners comfortably straighten teeth to address a variety of orthodontic dental problems. This discreet dental solution allows patients to realign their smiles over time. Because these aligners are removable, patients do not have any dietary restrictions and can easily brush and floss their teeth.
- Botox®: We can place Botox injections in our dental office for both aesthetic and therapeutic needs. Botox can address those lines and wrinkles that often appear as we age. We also offer Botox to minimize TMJ symptoms including jaw pain.
Cosmetic Dentistry Benefits
When people seek cosmetic dentistry, they often focus on improving the appearance of their smiles. While enhancing aesthetics is a major benefit, cosmetic treatments can offer much more than a visual upgrade. These services can also support emotional well-being, social confidence, and even overall oral function.
Mental and Social Benefits
Your smile is one of the first features others notice. When you feel unsure about how your teeth look, you may try to hide your smile or avoid speaking up in social situations. This self-conscious behavior can make you seem distant or reserved, even if that isn’t how you truly feel.
Many people who dislike their smiles struggle with lower self-esteem, and this can contribute to anxiety or depression. Improving the appearance of your smile can help you feel more comfortable in your own skin.
Your smile also affects how others respond to you. When you feel confident, you naturally appear more open and approachable. This can strengthen friendships, help you connect more easily in social settings, and make everyday interactions more enjoyable.
A confident smile can even benefit your career. People with attractive, well-cared-for smiles are often seen as more reliable and attentive. This positive impression can help you stand out to employers, improve workplace relationships, and increase your chances of earning a promotion or new opportunity.
Functional Benefits
Many cosmetic concerns have underlying functional or oral health components. Crooked teeth are a good example. When teeth are misaligned, they may overlap or sit at awkward angles.
This makes brushing and flossing more challenging, even if you use good technique. As a result, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
Misaligned teeth also affect how your bite fits together. A proper bite spreads chewing pressure evenly across all teeth. If your bite is uneven, certain teeth absorb more force than they should. These teeth are more likely to wear down quickly, chip, or break. Over time, these problems often lead to the need for restorative treatments.
An imbalanced bite is also a common contributor to TMJ disorders. When the jaw joint cannot move smoothly, the surrounding muscles become strained. This can lead to clicking or popping sounds, jaw pain, headaches, and limited movement.
Without treatment, these symptoms tend to worsen. Correcting alignment issues through cosmetic or orthodontic care can help protect the jaw joint and prevent ongoing discomfort.
Schedule An Appointment
Feeling great about the appearance of your smile can have a positive impact on both your long-term oral health and your confidence when interacting with others. If you feel embarrassed about your smile and would like to learn more about cosmetic dentistry, schedule an appointment in our Chapel Hill dental practice. Call us at (919) 551-8847 or fill out our online form to request an appointment. Our personalized approach to your needs and goals will provide the foundation for rebuilding a beautiful, lasting smile.
