Various Cosmetic Dental Procedures

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, your mouth and finally, your smile. A bright, healthy smile can enhance self-confidence and energize others around you. Studies and research has shown that new and restored smiles make people feel younger and more confident. Moreover, they demonstrate an increased ability to communicate, have greater sex appeal, and possess an improved talent for developing positive personal and professional relationships.

Which Treatment is best for You?

Known as indirect fillings, inlays and onlays made from porcelain or composite materials are a long lasting yet aesthetically pleasing way to provide a "filling" to teeth with tooth decay or similar structural damage. These are the replacement for the metal fillings of the past.

Chipped, broken, discolored or decayed teeth may be repaired or have their appearance corrected using a procedure called composite bonding or tooth bonding. A material with the look of your enamel is applied into the cavity or on the surface of the tooth in question and sculpted into shape, finally hardened with high-intensity light. The restoration blends right into the surrounding natural teeth.

The most commonly recommended cosmetic dentistry procedure is teeth whitening. Teeth are often stained from smoking, food, drink (coffee, tea or red wine) or poor oral hygiene. Bleaching the teeth can easily enhance the appearance of your smile. This procedure costs less and is more convenient than other procedures. Each type of procedures has its advantages and drawbacks so make sure you consult your dentist.

Veneers may be recommended if you have gaps in your teeth or if you have not had success with teeth whitening. Composite or porcelain laminates that are adhesively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct and repair chips and cracks will improve a worn appearance or severe tooth discoloration.

Dental implants are a form of cosmetic dentistry that replaces missing teeth with an artificial one that looks and feels natural. Implants are permanent replacements surgically planted in the jawbone in order to compensate for tooth loss. Often the result is not only an enhanced smile, but also a more youthful appearance, since missing teeth cause the face to collapse, making you look older.

An orthodontic corrective installation called braces is commonly used to properly straighten teeth. Dentures are still used today as well, both complete and partial dentures. Many cosmetic dentists are highly regarded for their extensive training, education and experience in creating a perfect smile makeover to their patients. The procedures also require a flare of artistry along with combining the benefits of restorative dentistry to bring out the best smile their patients’ dreamed of. Cosmetic Dentistry differs from general dentistry in that in most cased it is an elected procedure. Research, consult and team up with your cosmetic dentist to give your smile a perfect makeover!