What to do When You Don’t Like Your Smile

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The insecurity can be all too real: “They’re just a little too yellow for my taste,” or “They’re crooked, aren’t they?” or “My gums just show so much!” or even “This one’s practically sideways!” For some of us, the insecurity might be even more pronounced; whether because of illness, cavities, or injury, some of us are missing teeth altogether.

If you don’t like your smile, it can drastically alter your confidence and general disposition towards others. Our smiles are our social doorsteps, and we all want to keep our doorsteps neat, elegant, and inviting. Often, it’s not our fault that our teeth aren’t as presentable as we’d like; many dental traits are genetic, so things like tooth color can run in the family. Thankfully, whatever the reason, there are several resources available to you if you’re looking to give your teeth a royal makeover.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can be a major sore spot in your self-image; if that’s your plight, consult your orthodontist about dental implants. These are usually a metal anchor in the gum that acts as the root, topped with a porcelain or ceramic “crown” which looks like any natural tooth.

Dental implants require no alterations to surrounding teeth, look completely natural, and allow you to floss between your teeth as normal, unlike dental bridges. They’re an excellent option for patients with multiple missing teeth or for patients wanting a more secure anchor for their dentures; however, they usually require a fully-grown jaw, so check with your dental professional about whether you’re eligible.

Brightening Procedures

If it’s the coloration of your teeth that haunts you, brightening procedures are an excellent option. Tooth brightening, or whitening, involves applying a bleaching chemical to your teeth designed to lighten their color by several shades. Depending on how well you take care of your teeth afterwards, professional whitening can last for nearly 5 years!

Unlike commercially available bleaching kits or strips, a proper whitening procedure delivers the pleasant off-white that’s natural to healthy teeth instead of a clearly artificial bright white. Moreover, those home kits can cause serious damage to your enamel if used excessively, and their effects do not last as long, so it’s best to schedule a procedure instead. Only dental professionals should be trusted with whitening! Non-medical establishments like salons offering brightening are untrained and often even illegal.

How long your results last depend a lot on your diet! Tea, coffee, red wine, and chocolate will all stain your teeth, so be sure to avoid them for at least a couple of weeks following the procedure. It’s also a great idea to drink water immediately after consuming any of them to prevent staining as much as possible.

Clear Aligners

Your orthodontist will almost certainly recommend braces if your teeth are improperly aligned enough to cause health problems. However, if you’re simply looking to be rid of those slightly crooked teeth that drive you crazy, clear aligners are a suitable option. These are usually custom-made clear retainers that are worn at night to reshape your smile, with regular virtual check-ups and in-person appointments with your orthodontist.

Clear aligners are non-intrusive, convenient, and welcoming to anyone with a fear of more serious procedures, although the transformation is more gradual. If you're considering clear aligners, you should first search for 'orthodontist near me' to find an orthodontist to consult with. Using a clear aligner without consulting with a professional first can do more harm than good. 

These are all options that will leave you with a smile that you love; a smile that you’re proud to show off.