10 Dental Trends Transforming Smiles at Smith Mountain Lake
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Advances in cosmetic dentistry are giving Smith Mountain Lake residents more ways than ever to improve both dental health and confidence.
From clear aligners to laser treatments, today’s technology makes it easier, faster and more comfortable to achieve your best smile. Here are 10 dental trends local experts say are worth exploring.
1. Clear Aligners and Adult Braces at Smith Mountain Lake
For adults seeking straighter teeth without metal brackets, clear aligners have become a top choice.
“Clear aligners like Invisalign have surged in popularity among adults thanks to their nearly invisible design and shorter treatment times,” said Dr. Bana Hosseinian of Mountain View Orthodontics and Dental Sleep Center, which recently opened a second location at Westlake Corner. “We treat patients of all ages with personalized plans to achieve ideal results, regardless of age.”
2. Professional Teeth Whitening Options Near Smith Mountain Lake
Whitening continues to rank among the most requested cosmetic procedures.
Dr. Brian Alexander of Detour Dental in Union Hall noted, “Over-the-counter products like Crest 3DWHITESTRIPS do work, but take-home whitening available only from your dentist’s office delivers even better results with the same at-home convenience.”
3. Cosmetic Bonding and Veneers at Smith Mountain Lake: Fix Chips, Gaps and Discoloration
From fixing chips and gaps to full smile makeovers, veneers and bonding are quick, effective confidence boosters.
“Requested cosmetics include replacement of missing teeth with implants, crowns, bridges, partials or dentures; changing the shape and color of teeth using crowns, veneers and whitening; and straightening teeth with clear liners,” said Dr. Alexander.
4. Dental Implants at SML: The Gold Standard for Replacing Missing Teeth
Dental implants have become the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.
Dr. Bryan Sicher of Smith Mountain Lake Dental Practice, who has served the SML community since 1989, said implants rank “high on the list of most beneficial for health, wellness and esthetics.”
Advances in imaging and materials now make the process faster, safer and more predictable, even for complex cases, he said.
5. Complete Smile Makeovers at SML
Patients are increasingly combining services such as whitening, aligners, veneers and bonding for a complete transformation.
“Digital state-of-the-art simulation technology lets patients preview results before committing to treatment,” said Dr. Hosseinian. “We start by correcting the bite, then employ implants, crowns or veneers as needed.”
6. Laser Dentistry at Smith Mountain Lake
Laser technology is transforming procedures from gum reshaping to cavity removal and whitening. The benefits include less discomfort, minimal inflammation and faster healing, and can often be performed without anesthesia.
7. Same-Day Crowns Near SML
Digital scanning and in-office milling systems like Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) allow patients to receive crowns in a single visit.
“It’s very convenient for patients, with the added benefit of their own dentist maintaining full control over the entire process,” Dr. Sicher said.
8. Sleep Apnea Treatment with Oral Appliances at Smith Mountain Lake
Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can lead to significant health complications if left untreated. Fortunately, dental appliances can help. Dr. Hosseinian at Mountain View Orthodontics and Dental Sleep Center uses custom-fitted oral devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep airways open, helping patients enjoy deeper, safer sleep for better overall health.
9. Botox for TMJ and Smile Enhancement at Smith Mountain Lake Dental Practices
Dentists are expanding beyond the mouth to address TMJ (temporomandibular joint ) pain and teeth grinding with Botox and dermal fillers. These treatments also enhance overall smile balance and relaxation of facial muscles.
10. Holistic and Wellness Dentistry Smith Mountain Lake
A growing number of patients are choosing biocompatible materials and treatments that connect oral health to whole-body wellness.
“Oral microbiome will become recognized as being more significant than the role of colon microbiome in overall health,” predicted Dr. Sicher.
Bottom line, whether you’re whitening, straightening, or seeking a full-scale makeover, today’s advances in cosmetic and restorative dentistry are available close to home from expert Smith Mountain Lake-area dental professionals, making it easier than ever to love your smile and keep it healthy for years to come.
Jerry Hale
STAFF WRITER
When he’s not writing about the Smith Mountain Lake, you might just find Jerry out wake surfing or just idling through its coves, practicing guitar or banjo on his deck at the Cottages of Contentment Island, playing steel drums or volunteering with LCM, Trinity Ecumenical Parish, Neighbors Helping Neighbors or the SML Charity Home Tour.
