It’s often the simplest things we take for granted until we lose them. Like a smile, for example. Nothing is more revealing about someone’s emotions and personality than their smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry Statistics
- 3 out of 4 American adults feel that an unattractive smile can hinder a person’s chances for career success.
- 99.7% of Americans believe a smile is an important social asset.
What does your smile say about you? If you have been searching for a great cosmetic dentist to give you a beautiful smile and help you regain your self-confidence, you’ve come to the right place.
Top Annapolis Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Scott Finlay is one of the top dentists in Annapolis and a leading dentist in the United States. His extensive career in cosmetic dentistry is what sets him apart. He is an Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He happens to be one of 50 dentists nationwide and the only one in the Annapolis area to hold this recognition. Dr. Finlay is also a senior faculty member at the Dawson Academy. This is a leading dental continuing education and research facility.
“The Dawson Academy Names New Resident Experts”
Dr. Finlay was named one of four Resident Experts by the Dawson Academy. Dr. Finlay is often asked to speak at various events. He was called by the AEGIS Dental Network “one of the world’s most recognized dentists in the area of esthetic dentistry…”
Cosmetic Dentistry – More Than A Pretty Smile
Cosmetic dentistry can give you a beautiful smile. However, there is so much more to it. As a leading cosmetic dentist, Dr. Finlay will also focus on enhancing the mouth’s form, function, and health.
A healthy smile is naturally pretty and attractive. With each treatment option, we will ensure that it supports your long-term oral health. The results will not likely last if we apply cosmetic treatments on unhealthy teeth.
Not only does cosmetic dentistry improve the looks of your smile, but it also impacts your entire face. When we align the teeth and jaws, it enhances facial symmetry. Your face is balanced and more appealing to look at. You may also be able to breathe better due to alignment changes.
Psychological Benefits
The state of your smile has a big impact on your mental health. People with dental problems are self-conscious and focus on hiding their smiles publicly. They lose confidence, impacting relationships, social situations, and professional opportunities. A poor smile increases the chances of developing depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Even the act of smiling can boost your mood. If you aren’t smiling as often, you’re not getting this mood boost.
A better smile can help you seem more approachable. Your relationships improve, and you create more personal connections. A good smile makes coworkers assume you’re more competent and confident in the work sphere. You’re more likely to get new jobs or promotions.
Improved Oral Health
Oral health issues often cause cosmetic problems, and cosmetic issues can cause oral health problems. Patients with crooked teeth are more likely to have problems with tooth decay and gum disease. Crooked teeth come together at odd angles and are often cramped, making it hard for your toothbrush to reach everything it needs to. Sometimes, we can’t even reach these places with specialized dental tools.
Teeth that are worn down, chipped, or cracked may not have full integrity. It can be painful when you try to bite and chew with them, or you may damage the teeth further. Correcting these issues gives you back full function in your teeth. You don’t have to worry about avoiding certain areas when chewing food.
Crooked teeth can lead to an uneven bite, one of the biggest causes of TMJ disorders. Because your bite doesn’t come together properly, the jaw joint isn’t tracking as smoothly as it should, and it starts to break down. You may experience popping and clicking in your jaw, pain throughout the jaw and face, or issues properly opening and closing your jaw. It can get stuck in certain positions.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right For You?
Smile enhancement can range from simple smile whitening to a complete smile makeover. Cosmetic dental concerns can be due to dental disease, trauma, or congenital conditions. Regardless of the extent of these conditions, the impact of a smile on someone’s life can be as significant to the individual as to those around them.
“Growing up, I always hid my smile because people called me snaggletooth. Although this hurt my feelings, I was too apprehensive about going to the dentist. Dr. Finlay’s compassion and expert skills transformed my smile…look at me now.”
Read more patient stories in our Before & After Gallery.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist
Many dentists offer cosmetic procedures. However, only a few have the experience and training to match Dr. Finlay. Our cosmetic dental treatment plans balance the complexities of smile design to produce optimal results.
What To Expect From Cosmetic Dentistry
First, Annapolis dentist Dr. Finlay will meet with you to discuss your cosmetic concerns and goals. Do you want a Hollywood smile, or do you prefer a more natural appearance? Your dentist will also evaluate to assess the health of your mouth, teeth, gum, jaw joints, and more.
Next, he will outline cosmetic dentistry treatment options. He will consider your goals and health concerns in this treatment plan. Your dentist will work with you to create realistic oral health and appearance goals.
There are many ways to achieve the “perfect smile.” Dr. Finlay offers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments, including:
- Teeth Whitening
- Porcelain Veneers
- Dental Crowns
- Composite Fillings
- Dental Implants
- Smile Design Makeover
- Invisalign®
- Six Month Smiles
Dr. Finlay offers more dental services in his Annapolis dental office.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Learn more about cosmetic dentistry in our Annapolis, MD, dental office with answers to these common questions:
What is the difference between Invisalign and Six Month Smiles?
Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that fit over your teeth. You wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks, and they gradually move your teeth into the right position. You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
Six Month Smiles uses clear brackets and tooth-colored wires that are glued to your teeth. The brackets are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. They work to move your teeth, especially the front teeth, into a better position over about six months.
Six Month Smiles is best for front teeth and patients with orthodontic relapse. Invisalign can treat all teeth, including mild to moderate orthodontic problems.
Can I combine different cosmetic procedures?
Yes, you can combine different cosmetic procedures to enhance your smile. Many people choose to do this for the best results. For example, you might get teeth whitening along with veneers for a brighter smile or combine bonding with crowns to fix damaged teeth.
Our dentist will create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. Sometimes, they may suggest waiting between procedures to ensure proper healing.
How can I maintain my results after cosmetic treatment?
To maintain your results after cosmetic treatment, brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep your mouth healthy. Schedule check-ups and cleanings every six months to catch any issues early. Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries, as they can stain your teeth. If you play sports or grind your teeth, use a mouthguard to protect your smile.
Can I get professional teeth whitening if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, you can get professional teeth whitening even if you have sensitive teeth. Talk to our dentist about your sensitivity before starting any whitening treatment.
We can choose whitening products that are safe for sensitive teeth. These products often have lower concentrations of whitening agents to help reduce discomfort. Before treatment, we will apply a special gel or use a technique that protects your gums and reduces sensitivity during the treatment. After the whitening, we may suggest desensitizing toothpaste or treatments to help soothe your teeth.
Should I get veneers if I have crooked teeth?
If you have crooked teeth and are thinking about getting veneers, you should consider a few things. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin we place over the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. They can make your teeth look straighter and whiter.
However, veneers might not be the best solution if your teeth are very crooked. If your teeth are just slightly misaligned, veneers can help give you a better smile. However, you may want to consider braces or clear aligners first. These options can straighten your teeth properly before you consider veneers.
How much is a smile makeover?
The cost of a smile makeover can vary a lot depending on what treatments you need. A smile makeover may include teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, or braces. Each treatment has its own cost. Some dental insurance plans might cover part of the cost if the treatments are considered necessary.
Do I need veneers or crowns?
The type of treatment you need will depend on your extent of tooth damage. Veneers cover the front of the teeth and only cover the teeth that show when you smile. We can cover chipped and cracked teeth with veneers.
Crowns fully cover teeth like a cap. We recommend crowns for larger areas of damage, especiallt cracked and fractured teeth. Dr. Finlay will provide a thorough exam to determine which option is best for you.
How effective is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is effective at making your teeth look brighter and whiter. We use stronger whitening agents than what you can find in over-the-counter products, which can remove tougher stains and discoloration.
Most people see great results after just one visit. The treatment usually takes about an hour, and you can often lighten your teeth several shades in that time.
The results can last for a long time, especially if you take care of your teeth. Our dentist will make sure the treatment is safe for you and can help choose the best method for your needs.
Getting the Smile You Want Is Easy
Many patients avoid the dentist because they think treatment will be painful and expensive. Dr. Finlay strives to make each patient feel comfortable, putting them at ease about anxiety over treatment.
Regarding paying for cosmetic dentistry treatment, Dr. Finlay offers several affordable financing programs.
Schedule a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
Don’t hide your smile because of embarrassing dental problems. Contact Annapolis cosmetic dentist Dr. Scott Finlay to schedule a consultation and learn how cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile and life.