Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures and Information

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures and Information

  June 01, 2016    Sharon

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Most people are familiar with the focus that traditional dentistry has on prevention of tooth decay, oral hygiene, and the treatment of oral and tooth disease. 

Certain dental offices in the OC on the other hand, focuses on making the appearance of your mouth, teeth, and smile look better. You will often times hear cosmetic dentistry referred to as “elective” treatment with traditional dentistry being “necessary”.

Sometimes, however, the lines blur between necessary and elective procedures. A recent example is the change in dental filling composition. 

Historically, dental fillings were made of gold, silver, or other metals that would leave visible dark areas or spots on a person’s teeth. Fast forward to today, and fillings can be considered cosmetic at some level due to the porcelain that can be used to better match the color of your teeth. 

A number of people now choose to get the existing fillings changed out with the modern styled ones to better improve their smile and overall oral appearance.

With the modern advancements in technology, cosmetic dentists have never had the power before to help make your teeth look as natural and tooth-colored as possible when having to do oral procedures on your mouth. 

Cosmetic dentists are also able to make use of laser technology now in their office without having to send you to a specialist for an even higher dental bill.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

The following is a listing and short description of the common cosmetic dentistry procedures and treatments that are being used:

Composite Bonding: This is where a dental composite material is applied into a cavity or onto a tooth directly where it is then shaped and hardened with a high intensity light. The restoration then blends with the remaining part of the tooth and makes for a nicer looking smile on the patient.

Dental Implants: These are artificial replacements for the root of one of your teeth that has failed or been pulled. Most of the time, these result in an enhanced smile, and help the patient appear younger.

Dental Veneers: Dental Veneers are composite (or porcelain) laminates which are bonded to the surface of a tooth or teeth in order to help repair cracks or chipped teeth to improve the patient’s appearance. They can also be used for patients with significant gaps in their teeth.

Full Mouth Reconstruction: This is the larger cosmetic procedure that can sometimes be recommended by your dentist if you are being seen about a smile makeover. If your dentist finds that there are permanent problems with your bone structure, teeth, or bite, he or she may recommend a full mouth reconstruction in order to accomplish the work you desired completed.

Inlays/Onlays: This is also known as getting an indirect filling. Inlays or Onlays are made from a composite material or from porcelain and are a nicer looking way to fill teeth that have undergone significant toot decay. 

Inlays and Onlays are made in a dental lab before they are fitted and bonded to your toot or teeth by your dentist.

Teeth Whitening: One of the most requested cosmetic dental procedures. Most whitening procedures involve bleaching the patient’s teeth in order to enhance his or her smile.

With the advances of technology over the past decade, cosmetic dentistry is no longer only for people who are extremely “comfortable” with their money. If you are unhappy with the look of your teeth or your smile, a cosmetic dentist may be able to help you.