Traditional dentistry concentrates on preventing and/or treating oral
disease. Cosmetic dentistry is more of an elective service for the
reason that it basically concentrates on improving the look of a
person’s teeth, mouth and smile. Cosmetic dentistry also provides
restorative benefits. Dental fillings are used to treat and restore
decayed teeth. Most fillings were composed of amalgam, gold, and other
materials that were known to leave visible markings on the teeth.
Today, you can select fillings that closely match the color of your
teeth. Most of these fillings are constructed of composite materials or
porcelain. Consequently, the majority of people now see very little
difference between their fillings and their natural teeth.
These advancements in technology have ensured that most customers can
expect a more long-lasting and predictable service than ever before.
Additionally, dentists are currently using more conservative cosmetic
dentistry procedures to preserve as much of your natural tooth
structure as possible, depending upon your specific medical
circumstances. Some examples of Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments are:
1. Implants (Dental)
Dental implants are artificial tooth root replacements that are used as
a part of prosthetic dentistry in order to compensate for tooth decay.
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 seem older.
2. Inlays/Onlays
Inlays and onlays made from porcelain or composite materials are a
long-lasting yet cosmetic way to provide a “filling” to teeth with
tooth decay or similar structural damage.
3. Composite Bonding
Chipped, broken, discolored or decayed teeth may be repaired or have
their appearance corrected using a process known as composite bonding.
A dental composite material with the appearance of enamel and dentin is
applied into the cavity or on top of the surface of a tooth, where it
is then sculpted into form, contoured and hardened with a
high-intensity light. The end result is a restoration that blends
invisibly with the remainder of the adjoining tooth structure and the
rest of your natural teeth to produce a healthy, bright smile.
4. Total Mouth Reconstruction
While consulting with you on the subject of a smile make-over to
primarily enhance the esthetic look of your smile, your dentist may
well discover that there is a requirement to offer necessary treatment
to correct functional problems with your bite, muscles, teeth and bone
structure. If you need complete mouth restoration, the materials
available today make it possible for your dentist to provide you with
durable, functional and clinically sound treatments that also look
natural.
5. Tooth Whitening Procedures
Teeth whitening is perhaps the most commonly recommended cosmetic
dentistry procedure. Teeth are frequently tainted from smoking, food,
drink (coffee, tea or red wine) or poor oral hygiene. Bleaching the
teeth can improve the look of your smile.
6. Dental Veneers (Composite and Porcelain)
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 staining. Veneers could also be
recommended if you have gaps in your teeth or if you have not had
success with teeth whitening.