Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in people who are 65 and older? Tooth loss, gum disease, and tooth decay are serious dental problems that can negatively affect the look of teeth. Fortunately, there are several affordable cosmetic dentistry options available, and each one can help significantly improve the appearance of your smile.

1. Dental implants. This type of cosmetic dental work is used to permanently treat tooth loss. Although the earliest concept for dental implants was formed approximately 1,350 years ago when a Mayan woman hammered pieces of shell into her mouth as tooth replacements, modern dental implants are made of metal. These metal devices are inserted into the bone sockets of missing teeth to replicate tooth roots, and once the bone heals around the implants, they are able to support prosthetic teeth. Since dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, they are becoming the main alternative to dentures.

2. Veneers. This type of cosmetic dental surgery is used to conceal the imperfections that many teeth often develop. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain material, and they are able to cover minor chips, cracks, and discolorations. Although veneers are not permanent, they generally only need to be replaced once every 5-10 years.

3. Teeth whitening. Teeth whitening procedures are among the earliest cosmetic dental procedures ever put on the market. Professional teeth whitening is typically done using teeth bleaching lasers, and these lasers bleach teeth beyond their natural color. As a result, teeth bleaching lasers are an effective way to get a brighter smile.

Although teeth sometimes suffer from cosmetic issues, affordable cosmetic dentistry is available to help. Dental implants, veneers, and teeth whitening lasers, for example, are three effective ways to make teeth look better. By getting the procedure that is right for you, you will be able to get your smile back. Find more on this topic here.