Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
Our teeth are quite durable but tend to wear down or succumb to damage over time. Or maybe you just never had the smile you really wanted. Have you noticed that your teeth look worn or shorter than they used to look? Uneven wear on the teeth’s surfaces can occur for a few reasons, including clenching and grinding, a misaligned bite, and crooked teeth. In comparison to your other teeth, worn-down teeth may appear shorter or unnaturally even or may cause sensitivity and even toothaches in some people. That’s why our Okemos cosmetic dentist, Dr. Christine Tenaglia, shares on the blog today what can be done to fix your worn-out teeth so that you can restore bite functionality and flash a brilliant smile.
Dental Crowns
Usually made of porcelain ceramic, dental crowns are strong caps that are used to cover and safeguard teeth that have been harmed. Dental crowns are a viable option for restoring badly worn teeth caused by trauma or teeth-grinding.
Our cosmetic dentist in Lansing will take impressions of your teeth during a crown procedure and have a lab craft a restoration specifically for your tooth based on those impressions. Your natural tooth will be covered by the crown, which will also protect it from further harm and restore both its appearance and functionality.
Porcelain Veneers
Dental crowns are an excellent option for severely damaged teeth, but it may not be practical to have one placed on each tooth if you have several teeth requiring treatment. Veneers made of porcelain ceramic are another option for fixing your teeth. A veneer is a thin, durable shell that adheres to the front surface of your teeth. Our East Lansing dentist that offers veneers warns that patients who want to improve their smile’s aesthetics should be aware that improper care can lead to additional tooth damage.
Veneers protect teeth from damage, but they can break or chip if subjected to excessive force, as in bruxism or clenching and grinding your teeth while sleeping. If you have bruxism, it’s recommended that you manage your condition with a custom night guard before getting veneers to improve your smile to prevent veneer and tooth damage.
Dental Bonding
When a tooth has been damaged or discolored, dental bonding can be used to restore its natural appearance and strengthen the tooth. Our cosmetic dentist in Okemos explains that your tooth structure can be “built up” through dental bonding by using the same composite resin material used to fill cavities.
Again, dental bonding might be the best option if you only have one or two badly worn teeth, but it might not be the best choice if you have a whole mouthful. With proper maintenance, dental bonding can last for years, but like other dental restorations, it will eventually need to be fixed or replaced.
Cosmetic Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Worn-down teeth can cause aesthetic issues like short, flat teeth and painful sensitivity, so it’s important to see a dentist if you’re experiencing these issues. Fortunately, there are ways to repair the damage done by years of use on your teeth, bringing back both their aesthetic value and their functional capacity. If you notice wear and tear on your teeth, please contact our Lansing cosmetic dentist at Tenaglia Smiles to find out which cosmetic treatment is best for your smile needs. Call us today at (517) 347-6733 or contact us online to request an appointment.