Like most people, you probably take your smile for granted. But, what if you didn’t have teeth? What if your teeth were yellow or crooked? Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it can affect your self-esteem and how others perceive you. That’s why it’s essential to keep your smile looking its best. You’re not alone if you’re considering getting cosmetic dentistry work done to achieve this.
Many others are interested in cosmetic dentistry procedures to help them achieve their ideal smile, and it’s no secret that cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, MO, and in many parts of the world is constantly evolving. Each year, researchers develop new technologies and treatments to help improve people’s smiles
So, what can the world expect to see in the world of cosmetic dentistry in 2022? This article will dive deeper into the top trends in this field for 2022 and how you can take advantage of them to improve your smile. Read on!
- More Natural-Looking Teeth
One of the biggest trends in cosmetic dentistry for 2022 is a move towards more natural-looking results. In the past, many people opted for treatments that gave them white teeth that looked almost artificial. While this may have been the trend at the time, it’s now more popular to have teeth that look natural.
Natural teeth are making a comeback in a big way, and it’s not hard to see why. Patients are becoming more aware of the available options, and more and more of them are requesting treatments that’ll give them more realistic results. Patients are also opting for more subtle changes. At the same time, dental professionals are becoming more skilled at providing these results. This means using less aggressive techniques and materials that more closely resemble the patient’s natural teeth.
Here are some of your best options if your goal is to have natural-looking teeth:
- Porcelain veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells installed on the teeth’s front surface. Those made from porcelain are strong and durable. Veneers can be used to correct many dental problems, including stained teeth, chipped teeth, and misshapen teeth.
- Teeth whitening
This procedure involves bleaching the teeth to make them several shades lighter, and can be done in a dental clinic or at home. Teeth whitening is a safe, non-invasive, and effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth.
- Dental implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They’re a permanent solution to missing teeth and can give you a natural-looking smile.
- Dental reshaping and contouring
Such types of procedures are used to repair misshapen or crooked teeth, improving the appearance of your smile. Dental reshaping and contouring are also used to protect your existing teeth from further damage.
- Dental crowns
Dental crowns are placed over your existing teeth to give them a new, natural-looking appearance. In addition, they can also help thwart any type of damage to your existing teeth.
Such procedures can give you a more natural-looking smile. In addition to being more realistic, they’re also easier to care for.
- Greater Focus On Oral Health
As cosmetic dentistry becomes more popular, the focus is rapidly shifting to overall oral health. This is a significant trend because it means that people are becoming more proactive about their oral health and are taking steps to avoid problems before they start. There are a few reasons for this shift in focus.
For one, people want to keep their teeth healthy for as long as possible so they could make use of them up to their golden years. Also, cosmetic dentistry procedures are becoming more affordable and accessible. Thanks to technological advances, there are now more options than ever for people who want to improve their smile.
Nowadays, there are many viable cosmetic dentistry options at your disposal, and focusing on oral health means you’re more likely to get the procedure you want to be covered by your insurance.
- Modern Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for kids, and with new, more sophisticated braces that are smaller and less noticeable than ever, more adults are becoming more interested. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in recent years. With modern innovations, orthodontists can provide patients with more options and the best care possible.
Here are some of the most popular modern orthodontic treatments available:
- Invisalign
Invisalign is a clear aligner system that’s virtually invisible. It’s an excellent option for patients looking for a discreet way to straighten their teeth.
- Braces
Braces are the most traditional way to straighten teeth. They’re made of metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth. Braces have been tested and proven to be effective at correcting a wide variety of orthodontic problems. Here are some of the modern types of dental braces
- Clear braces: They’re made of clear plastic or ceramic brackets and wires. They’re less visible than traditional metal braces, making them a good option for patients concerned about their appearance.
- Removable Braces: Such types of braces use clear, plastic aligners to straighten teeth. These aligners are removable, unlike other braces made of metal and which are bonded to the teeth. You can take them out to eat, brush your teeth, and floss. Aligners are also virtually invisible. Unless someone looks closely, they probably won’t notice that you’re wearing them. This is a huge advantage for adults who are self-conscious about their appearance.
- Retainers
They’re used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment. They’re custom-made and can be worn full-time or part-time, depending on the patient’s needs.
Modern orthodontic treatments aim to move your teeth into their proper position in more convenient ways. Your orthodontist can create a custom treatment plan that’d suit your needs and preferences.
- Minimally Invasive Dentistry
Patients are increasingly interested in minimally invasive dentistry, which involves using the least interfering techniques possible to achieve the desired results. This trend is driven partly by the growing popularity of cosmetic dentistry, as patients want to minimize the risk of damage to their teeth.
One of the most popular minimally invasive dental procedures is teeth whitening. This is because it’s quick and easy, and it doesn’t require the use of harsh abrasives. With digital technology, dentists can now offer patients customized teeth whitening treatments that are more effective than ever. Several other procedures, such as bonding, veneers, and implants, fall under the minimally invasive umbrella as well.
If you’re considering cosmetic dental procedures, you should ask your dentist about minimally invasive options. You may be surprised at how easy and pain-free these procedures can be!
- Digital Technology
Digital technology is revolutionizing the world of dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry is no exception. From 3D-printed teeth to digital smile designing, dentists now use cutting-edge technology to create beautiful, custom smiles.
In the past, cosmetic dentistry was about getting your teeth whitened or your smile looking its best for your wedding day or any special occasion. But, these days, there’s so much more that dentists can do with digital technology to help you to achieve the perfect smile.
Here are a few ways digital technology is applied in cosmetic dentistry:
- 3D Printing
3D printing is one of the most exciting new technologies in the dental world. It’s already being used to create customized braces and implants, and it’ll only become more prevalent in the future. With 3D printing, dentists can create bespoke dental appliances perfectly tailored to an individual’s mouth. This means that you’re less likely to experience discomfort or irritation, and the treatment is guaranteed to be effective.
- Digital X-Rays
Digital x-rays are another exciting new development in cosmetic dentistry. They offer a much more detailed picture of your teeth and mouth than traditional x-ray, and they’re much safer, too. Digital x-rays also use less radiation than conventional ones, and are more comfortable for patients. They’re also more convenient for dentists, as the images can be sent electronically to other dental team members.
- Virtual Consultations
With the help of digital technology, you can now consult your dentist without even leaving your home. Virtual consultations are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a convenient and cost-effective way to get expert advice on your dental health.
- Digital Smile Designing
This new technology allows dentists to create a 3D model of a patient’s teeth and design a custom smile that meets their needs. This is a considerable improvement over the traditional way of designing smiles, which often resulted in ones that didn’t look natural or didn’t fit the patient’s face.
Digital smile designing is done using special software that considers the patient’s facial features, the shape of their teeth, and the way they come together when they bite. This allows the dentist to create a smile that’s not only beautiful, but also functional.
The use of digital technology in orthodontics has many benefits. These technologies can be used to create custom appliances that are more comfortable and effective. They can also be used to plan treatment more accurately. Digital technology can also help to reduce the cost of orthodontic treatment.
- Laser Gum Rejuvenation
Laser gum rejuvenation is also one of the top trends in cosmetic dentistry for 2022. It’s a procedure that can help improve your gums’ appearance. It treats various issues, including gummy smiles, as well as uneven and receding gums.
Laser gum rejuvenation is a quick and easy procedure that can be performed in your dentist’s office. The method uses a laser to remove excess gum tissue and to contour the gums to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. It can also be used to correct a gummy smile, wherein the gums appear too prominent, or to improve the overall health of your gums by reducing inflammation and bacteria.
Laser gum rejuvenation is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. The procedure is relatively painless and has a short recovery time. Most people can return to their normal activities on the same day as their procedure.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint
In 2022, people are becoming increasingly conscious of the environment and their impact on it. More and more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and here are several ways this is happening in the dental industry:
- Biodegradable Dental Products
As people become more aware of the impact of their consumption on the environment, they’re looking for biodegradable dental products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. There are even some eco-friendly dental products on the market that are made from recycled materials.
- Natural Dental Products
Another trend that’s gaining popularity is the use of natural dental products. These include toothpaste and mouthwash that are made from natural ingredients. There’s also an increasing demand for fluoride-free dental products.
- Green Dental Practices
There’s an increasing number of dental practices that’s becoming ‘green,’ such as paperless charting and using environmentally-friendly cleaning products.
- Eco-Friendly Dental Office Design
An eco-friendly dental office design is also becoming a trend. This includes using sustainable materials, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving fixtures.
By going green, cosmetic dentistry can help to make a difference in the fight against climate change.
- A Rise In Dental Tourism
Another trend that’s evident in the world of cosmetic dentistry is the rise in dental tourism. In the past, getting dental work done in another country was often considered risky. However, more people have realized they can get high-quality dental care at a fraction of the cost by travelling to another country.
Many countries have become popular destinations for dental tourism, including Mexico, Costa Rica, Hungary, and the Philippines, for offering dental care for less than what you would pay in other countries.
Final Words
It’s exciting to see how these trends will develop over the next years. And, you can expect to see more dentists offering more advanced services, such as 3D imaging, in the coming years. So, whatever your dental needs may be, consult your trusted dentist to find the best treatment option for you. Keep these trends in mind when planning the dental procedures you want to undergo, and you’ll be sure to stay ahead of the curve. And, remember, preventive care is always the best way to keep your smile healthy and looking its best.
