Cosmetic dentistry is different from traditional dentistry as it is used to improve the appearance of a person`s smile, teeth or gums while traditional dentistry refers to diagnose and treating dental problems. Cosmetic dentistry adds to the overall look of an individual by correcting smiles. Cosmetic dentistry is more of a look enhancer than a mere treatment. It is a revolution in the field of dental sciences as it provides restorative benefits. With the huge advancements in technology, cosmetic dentistry has emerged as a unique way of safe and comfortable dental procedures. Cosmetic dentistry is a separate branch of dental studies, and it needs special training.
A cosmetic dentist can perform the following procedures:
Teeth Whitening or Bleaching: This is one of the most common procedures done to enhance the oral appearance of an individual. Most often your teeth gets stained due to various reasons such as smoking, drinking tea or coffee, and poor hygiene that can be removed with teeth whitening. It improves the smile of a person.
Bonding: Bonding or composite bonding is a dental procedure used to correct chipped, broken, or badly arranged teeth. In this procedure, an enamel like dental composite is applied to the tooth surface which is then hardened and polished to hide all impairments.
Inlays or Onlays: This procedure is similar to dental filling, but the filling is done in an indirect way. Tooth decay and other structural damage are repaired by filling a porcelain or composite material that is long lasting. The filling is done indirectly as your orthodontist will prepare the filling in a laboratory before fitting it into your cavity.
Dental Bridges or Dental Implants: Dental implants are basically false teeth used to fill the space created by tooth loss. The false teeth is known as pontics, and it is embedded in between two porcelain crowns to fill the empty space lying in your teeth structure. The two crowns are then fixed to the tooth lying on either side of the filled space to hold it tightly. It is not a removable fixture, and it can be used to fill one or more empty spaces. This procedure is used to improve the oral structure, smile, and speech.
Dental Veneers: Veneers are used to hide the gaps or discolored teeth that can`t be repaired by any other procedure. Veneers are finely made porcelain laminate that are directly bonded to the tooth.
Gum Lift: Gum lift is a cosmetic procedure that is used to reconstruct the gum line. This procedure may require correcting tissues or underlying bones to create symmetrical teeth.
Smile Makeover: Smile makeover may include one or more from the above stated procedures for improving your smile. It is a major process and required the complete esthetics of your jaw structure and teeth.
Many people are not happy with their smile and teeth configuration, which can be improved with cosmetic dentistry. If you are among them, consult your dentist today.