What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
There are a number of treatments available for patients who are looking to improve their smile, however minor! Advances in dental technology have progressed over the years making dental restorations easy and natural-looking. Cosmetic dentistry can help patients get back the confidence and comfort they once had with a number of options ranging from simple whitening treatments to brighten your smile to dental implants and a full mouth reconstruction.
If you want to make improvements to your smile, you should schedule a consultation with your Dentist to discuss what specifically you want to change! You and your Dentist will discuss all of your options and your Dentist will then develop a treatment plan for your individual case. This consultation will help your Dentist understand your lifestyle and habits so they can determine what treatment will be best for you. Cosmetic dentistry is an investment not only in your oral health, but in your future! With good home care and regular visits to your Dentist, your new smile has the potential to last a lifetime.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Options
Your Dentist will be able to treat most cosmetic procedures! A few treatments your general Dentist may provide include:
* Whitening: Whitening alone is a great way to freshen your smile. Over the years, our teeth become dull and discolored due to staining from the foods and beverages we consume. It is also often used in conjunction with other procedures, to make sure your smile is bright so your new restorations will be too.
* Composite Bonding: Bonding is most commonly used to repair decay and small chips in the teeth but it can also be used to close small gaps between teeth and can even be used to fabricate composite veneers, which are usually applied in one visit.
* Crowns: A porcelain crown is used when a tooth is fractured or does not have enough viable tooth structure to support dental bonding. They are also often placed on a tooth that has had root canal treatment. Crowns can be used on front and back teeth.
* Veneers: Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular restorative options in cosmetic dentistry. Veneers are like crowns but they cover only the front portion of the tooth and are significantly thinner. Veneers can drastically change your smile and can last up to 20 years.
Cosmetic Dentistry With Specialists
Your Dentist will be able to provide some great options but if they decide that you would be best served with a treatment that they cannot perform, like dental implants, they will refer you to a specialist.
* Orthodontia: If you have severely crooked teeth, your Dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment. Some Dentists are preferred providers for clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign, but if they do not offer such treatment, they may refer you to an Orthodontist. Orthodontia not only improves the appearance of your smile but greatly improves the overall health of your mouth. Straight teeth are much easier to clean and less prone to decay.
* Dental Implants: If you need to have one or more missing teeth replaced and would like to receive dental implants, your Dentist can refer you to an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist for an evaluation and implant placement surgery. Most general Dentists do not place dental implants but they do restore them, with either an implant crown or other implant prosthesis, such as an implant-supported denture.
Not all Dentists are Cosmetic Dentists so make sure to do your research to select a certified Cosmetic Dentist to give you a new smile to show off for years to come!