When you meet someone, your smile often speaks before you do. A confident, radiant smile can change the way others see you, and even more importantly, how you see yourself. At Emerald Dental in Lakewood, CO, we believe cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about appearance; it’s about helping you love your smile again.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what cosmetic dentistry really is, which options are available, and how to choose the right treatments for your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and bite. While general dentistry keeps your mouth healthy, cosmetic dentistry enhances your smile’s look, including the color, alignment, shape, and size of your teeth.
These treatments go beyond aesthetics. They can improve function, prevent damage, and restore confidence.
General Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
General dentistry emphasizes prevention and maintenance such as cleanings, fillings, and exams. Cosmetic dentistry builds on that healthy foundation to refine and beautify your smile. Procedures like cosmetic dental porcelain veneers, dental bonding for gaps, and invisible braces not only make your smile more attractive but can also enhance function and strength.
Why Choose a Cosmetic-Focused Dentist in Lakewood
Choosing a Lakewood cosmetic dentist means working with a professional who understands your community, lifestyle, and expectations. At Emerald Dental, we combine advanced technology with an artistic eye to create results that enhance both your oral health and confidence.
Why Cosmetic Dentistry Matters in Lakewood
Lakewood is a vibrant, active community, and your smile should reflect that energy. Whether you’re networking in downtown Denver or hiking at Bear Creek Lake Park, a bright smile helps you feel confident in every situation.
Aesthetic Benefits
Cosmetic dentistry can:
- Whiten teeth that are stained or discolored
- Close small gaps and reshape uneven teeth
- Straighten mild misalignments discreetly
- Restore chipped or worn enamel
Functional Benefits
Cosmetic treatments often improve oral function as well. For instance, veneers protect worn teeth, and dental implants prevent bone loss from missing teeth. At Emerald Dental, our goal is to help you achieve both beauty and function for a truly healthy smile.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
Every smile is unique, so your treatment plan should be too. Here are the most popular cosmetic options we offer at Emerald Dental.
Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening delivers faster, longer-lasting results than store-bought products. We offer both in-office whitening for immediate results and custom home teeth whitening kits for easy at-home touch-ups. Whitening is an excellent first step toward a brighter, more confident smile.
Porcelain Veneers
Cosmetic dental porcelain veneers are thin, durable shells bonded to the front of your teeth to conceal chips, discoloration, or uneven shapes. Veneers can completely transform your smile in as little as two visits. At Emerald Dental, we use high-quality porcelain to create results that look natural and radiant.
Dental Bonding
If you have small chips or gaps between teeth, dental bonding for gaps is a quick, affordable, and minimally invasive solution. Using tooth-colored resin, we sculpt and polish your teeth to create a smooth, even appearance. Bonding is often completed in just one visit.
Crowns, Inlays, and Onlays
When teeth are too damaged for bonding or porcelain veneers, crowns, inlays, and onlays restore both strength and appearance. Modern ceramics reflect light naturally and blend beautifully with your surrounding teeth.
Dental Implants
If you’re missing a tooth, a dental implant can restore both the look and function of your smile. Implants feel and perform just like natural teeth while preserving jawbone health.
Clear Aligners and Invisible Braces
If you’re looking for a discreet way to straighten your smile, types of invisible braces such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® are excellent options. These aligners are clear, comfortable, and removable, making them ideal for adults who want subtle orthodontic correction.
How to Choose the Right Treatment for You
Finding the right cosmetic dental solution starts with a thoughtful assessment of your goals and lifestyle.
Assess Your Smile Goals
Think about what you want to change: color, shape, alignment, or spacing. Bringing a few “smile inspiration” photos to your consultation can help your dentist understand your vision.
Consider Your Oral Health
Healthy gums and teeth are essential before starting any cosmetic procedure. If you have existing dental issues, such as decay or gum inflammation, we’ll address those first to ensure long-lasting results.
Budget and Lifestyle
Some treatments, like whitening or bonding, are quick and affordable. Others, such as veneers or implants, are longer-term investments. Our team will help you choose the best path based on your goals, schedule, and financial comfort.
Choosing a Lakewood Cosmetic Dentist
When selecting a cosmetic dentist in Lakewood, look for experience, technology, and a commitment to patient satisfaction. At Emerald Dental, Dr. Stephanie Paswaters takes time to understand your concerns and design a personalized plan that delivers both beauty and durability.
What to Expect: Process and Recovery
Consultation and Planning
Your journey begins with a detailed smile assessment that includes photos and digital scans. We’ll discuss your goals, treatment options, and what you can expect from start to finish.
Treatment Phase
Depending on your plan, your treatment may take one appointment (for whitening or bonding) or several (for veneers, implants, or aligners). Our team focuses on keeping each step comfortable and efficient.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery times vary by treatment, but most patients resume normal activities within a day. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to maintain your results with your home teeth whitening kit and proper hygiene.
Longevity and Maintenance
With regular checkups and good oral care habits, your cosmetic results can last for many years. Avoiding habits like nail-biting, grinding, or using your teeth as tools will help protect your new smile.
Why Choose Emerald Dental in Lakewood, CO
At Emerald Dental, we combine advanced cosmetic techniques with a caring, patient-centered approach. Our Lakewood office is equipped with the latest technology to ensure precise, comfortable, and effective treatments.
We’re proud to serve our Lakewood community and help our neighbors smile with confidence. From cosmetic dental porcelain veneers to types of invisible braces, we’ll guide you through every step of your transformation with expertise and compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the most popular cosmetic dental treatment in Lakewood?
Teeth whitening and veneers are among the most popular treatments because they offer noticeable improvements quickly. Many patients start with whitening before exploring long-term solutions.
2. How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, cosmetic dental porcelain veneers typically last between 10 and 15 years. Regular dental visits and good hygiene can extend their lifespan even further.
3. Are invisible braces as effective as traditional braces?
Yes. For mild to moderate alignment concerns, types of invisible braces such as Invisalign® are just as effective as metal braces. They’re clear, comfortable, and removable, which makes them especially appealing for adults.
4. Can I use a home teeth whitening kit safely?
Yes, especially if your kit is provided or approved by your dentist. At Emerald Dental, we offer professional-grade home teeth whitening kits that are both safe and effective when used as directed.
5. Is cosmetic dentistry painful or invasive?
Most cosmetic dental treatments are minimally invasive and comfortable. Our Lakewood team uses gentle techniques and modern anesthetics to ensure a relaxing experience from start to finish.
Conclusion
Your smile is one of your most powerful features, and it deserves care that reflects its importance. Whether you’re considering dental bonding for gaps, cosmetic dental porcelain veneers, or exploring types of invisible braces, Emerald Dental in Lakewood, CO is here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.