Thanks to advancements in medicine and technology, there are more cosmetic dental procedures from which to choose. With just some time and money, you can get the beautiful smile you've always wanted. However, before you get started, check out these four common cosmetic procedures.

1. Veneers

When you smile or speak, most people only see your front teeth, which is why many patients often turn to veneers for a beautiful, more idealistic smile. Veneers are thin, and they are placed over the surface of the front teeth. Some enamel must be removed for the veneer to fit, so there is a minor risk of damaging the tooth or cracking the tooth's root.

Veneers can fix a wide variety of issues, including minor crookedness, gaps, overlapping, etc. The dentist can craft the veneers to fit your teeth but shape them to appear flush, straight, and white. Veneers are solely a cosmetic procedure, and they cannot strengthen teeth.

2. Dental Crown

Dental crowns, however, can strengthen teeth. In fact, they are commonly used to treat weak teeth or teeth that haven't undergone root canal treatment. Like veneers, however, dental crowns can also be used to create that "perfect" smile because, besides metal, you can choose all-porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

For crowns, more enamel must be removed because the dental crown covers the entire tooth. This means there is a slightly higher risk of breaking into the tooth's pulp, which will lead to an infection. However, once the crown is placed, the tooth is stronger and better protected from decay.

3. Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a common choice for replacing missing teeth. It is a more durable option than partial dentures, and it can be used to replace one missing tooth or a handful of missing teeth. Unlike a partial denture, a dental bridge can't be removed. It is secured in place with anchor teeth.

For the bridge to fit, however, the anchor teeth need to have the enamel removed. If the teeth are weak or gum disease starts, the pressure from chewing may put extra strain and stress on the bridge, causing it to fail.

4. Dental Implant

A dental implant is an even more durable way to replace a missing tooth. Implants mimic natural teeth, so they sit in the jawbone. Instead of ligaments holding the implant, however, the bone fuses to it, creating a solid hold.

This is the most expensive option for replacing your missing teeth, but the dental implant will help keep your jawbone healthy and strong by stimulating it like normal teeth.

If you are unhappy with your smile, it may be time to consider cosmetic dentistry. Even if your teeth are weak and/or have lots of cavities/filings, there is a cosmetic procedure for you. If you would like to know more about dental crown implants, contact a dentist in your area today.