Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses not only the health of the teeth, but also their aesthetic value. Various products and procedures exist within cosmetic dentistry with the goal of improving both the well-being and visual beauty of the teeth, giving the individual a higher level of self-confidence.
Services provided by a cosmetic dentist include the following:

Tooth bleaching
Porcelain veneers
Tooth-colored fillings
Dental implants
Dentures

Tooth Whitening

Tooth bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, has become so advanced and widespread that certain dental companies have marketed their own form of at-home tooth whitening products. While there is some merit to these home bleaching kits, there is nothing that compares to having a professional, nationally board-certified dentist perform this procedure on your teeth. When performed by a professional, the entire whitening process is abbreviated and can be completed in only a few short visits, compared to weeks of at-home treatment.

Veneers

Porcelain and composite veneers are effective aesthetic cover-ups for damaged or stained teeth. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the teeth they are protecting. Advancements in technology have improved the bonding agents to the extent that it is quite common for veneers to remain functional for 10 years or more.

Fillings

Cavities are painful and unsightly holes in the teeth that must be filled with inert material. Contemporary fillings, called dental composite resin, are much closer in hue to the natural color of teeth. This allows the tooth to be protected but still look untouched.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement designed to fill the void created by a missing tooth. There are many types of dental implants, ranging from individual crowns to large scale dentures. A cosmetic dentist can ensure that not only will the most comfortable replacement be found, but it will be implanted in the most accurate and aesthetic manner possible.

There are numerous options available to improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and smile. Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which option best suits their specific needs and will most effectively meet their expectations.

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

Why Should A Missing Tooth Be Replaced?

The healthiest thing to do when a tooth is missing is to have it replaced. Otherwise, there is a risk of problems that may include:

Difficulty biting and chewing
Difficulty speaking
Headaches
Muscle pain
Unattractive appearance

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants serve as the base for many tooth-replacement options, including bridges, dentures and individual artificial teeth. Implants are surgically implanted in the jaw to provide a comfortable, secure fit.

What Is Involved In Dental Implantation?

In a series of one or two appointments, the post, or anchor, is implanted in the jaw. Once the bone and gums have healed, the replacement tooth, bridge or denture is fitted and installed. Dental implant surgery may be performed in an office or hospital with local or general anesthesia.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-fit and bonded to the front sides of teeth to close gaps, cover stains and discolorations, and correct chipped or misshapen teeth.

Why Are Dental Crowns Used?

Dental crowns are used to strengthen and improve the shape, size or color of teeth. They can help to:

Support broken or weak teeth or those with large fillings
Provide a smooth, strong, contoured surface for stained, crooked or abnormal teeth
Aid in the implantation of bridges and other implants

What Do Dental Bridges Do?

Dental bridges, also called fixed partial dentures, are natural-looking tooth replacements which help maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in gaps caused by missing teeth.

Can Dental Bridges Be Removed For Cleaning?

Removable dental bridges can be taken out and cleaned at home, but fixed dental bridges are implanted in the jaw and bonded to the teeth with crowns or caps and cannot be removed.

What Does In-Office Tooth Whitening Or Bleaching Involve?

In-office tooth bleaching, also called chair side bleaching, takes place over a series of one-hour appointments at a dentist’s office. First, the teeth are examined and cleaned to make sure there are no cavities, loose fillings, gum problems or other issues that may be affected by the bleaching process. Then the dentist makes a custom-fit mouth tray for the teeth. Bleaching gel, which contains a hydrogen peroxide solution, is applied to the teeth in the tray. Often, another gel or rubber shield is fit over the gums to protect them. An ultraviolet light is then shone on the teeth to facilitate the process.

What Are Whitening Strips?

Whitening strips are designed to help whiten teeth quickly and easily. They are clear, thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide bleaching gel, and can be bought without a prescription. They need to be worn for 30 minutes, twice a day, for about 21 days. More time may be necessary for teeth with significant staining. Results may last for up to one year.

What Are The Advantages Of In-Office Whitening Over Take-Home Tooth Whitening Kits?

Advantages of in-office teeth whitening include:

Professional supervision
Fast results
Safe and simple
Less tooth sensitivity
Proven results

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