Seniors Resource Guide

Advances in Cosmetic Dentistry

Article submitted by Dr Couchman, DDS. For further information he can be reached at 719-593-0264 or www.CouchmanDental.com.

Do you ever notice that everything is “New and Improved” today? Well, in dentistry there really are some new and improved services that can enhance your smile, improve your health, and even make you look younger! Here are a few examples of recent advances in cosmetic dentistry.

If you want whiter teeth, but don’t want to continually do touch ups, there is now an answer in the form of permanent whitening. A proven technology called Lumineers can give you permanent whitening without messy trays or cutting on sensitive tooth structure. Lumineers can also correct a wide variety of unsightly dental conditions, such as noticeable gaps, broken or misshapen teeth, and even mismatched crowns. In most cases, there is no anesthesia necessary, not even an aspirin. A younger looking smile is just a few appointments away!

Perhaps your teeth are crowded, too far apart, or have shifted over the years. The latest technology in orthodontics is Invisalign, the invisible way to straighten teeth using a series of custom-made, nearly undetectable aligners. The benefits of straight teeth include easier brushing and flossing, a better bite, an improved smile, and healthier gum and bone. Much has been published recently about the connection between gum disease and heart health. Other studies highlight the connection between gum disease and diabetes. There is almost no age limitation on Invisalign treatment. Give yourself the gift of improved health and enhance your smile at the same time.

Dental implants are another area of dentistry that has seen tremendous improvement. Patients who replace missing teeth with dental implants have experienced increased ability to chew food properly and completely, which leads to better nutrition. They also report being able to eat their favorite foods again!