Cosmetic dentistry can be described as a form of aesthetic dentistry. The field of cosmetic dentistry has grown in popularity over the last two decades. Cosmetic dentistry includes a wide variety of activities. They are all geared towards improving the overall look of the mouth and its surrounding tissues and organs.
Dentistry includes orthodontics or tooth straightening procedures, veneers; contouring; crowns; bridges; Lumineers, teeth whitening methods, jaw reconstruction, and gum surgery. Cosmetic dentistry is typically used to describe any dental work which improves the look of teeth, bite, and other related structures. It is also commonly used to describe any procedures used to enhance the function of the jaw or other parts of the face. This is not to say that an orthodontist or a dentist performs all cosmetic procedures.
One of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments is dental bonding. Dental bonding is also referred to as tooth-colored or lumineered enameloplasty. It involves applying synthetic enamel - similar in appearance to natural enamel - over damaged teeth to repair or restore them. The process of dental bonding does not change the structure, shape of the teeth.
Another popular procedure a cosmetic dentist often performs is teeth whitening or bleaching. Many people can whiten their teeth through bleaching. It is especially popular among young people.
In addition to the abovementioned cosmetic dentistry procedures, many dentists perform cosmetic dentistry procedures such as porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin; custom-made porcelain laminates are applied and bonded onto the front surfaces of teeth. They are designed to look like the natural teeth of individuals with complete, white teeth. While veneers are relatively durable and do not require the same care as bridges, they may not be as attractive.
Some cosmetic dentists perform procedures that involve the use of tooth-colored onlays. Onlays are thin, custom-made, tooth-colored sheets placed over damaged, chipped or broken teeth to cover up a tooth. Available in a variety of colors and styles, onlays can be custom-made and designed to match the color of the patient's teeth. While some onlays are flat and barely noticeable, others are very pronounced and appear more like a genuine tooth than anything else. Some delays can even be used in place of traditional veneers.
Dentists who practice good cosmetic dentist techniques can help their patients improve their overall appearance and their dental health. Good cosmetic dentists help patients achieve better smiles by correcting teeth problems that can prevent them from smiling broadly and freely. For example, people with crooked, crowded, or improperly formed teeth can use veneers to correct these problems. In some cases, cosmetic dentists can replace teeth that were removed due to decay, broken or decayed teeth, and other dental problems.
Cosmetic dentists can also help patients improve their overall dental health by helping them obtain dental implants. Dental implants are solid, temporary solutions for restoring missing, broken or cracked teeth. By fixing a tooth or teeth with dental implants, patients can regain a confident smile and feel more comfortable about their smile. However, many people are hesitant to undergo this procedure because it is artificial and not a real tooth. Therefore, a good cosmetic dentist will help patients come to terms with the reality that dental implants are simply another way of expressing oneself through the mouth.
Other procedures often performed by cosmetic dentists include:
Bonding of the mouth.
Lifting of molars.
Whitening of teeth.
Reshaping of teeth.
Fitting of mouth guards.
Bonding of the mouth involves applying a synthetic substance over the surface of the mouth so that the patient's natural tooth color is mimicked. Lifting of molars is done using a dental plate, and the procedure is called scaling. Whitening of teeth is done using laser technology, and a trial smile will often be featured in a patient's portfolio.
Whitening of teeth is done using a solution that is applied to the teeth using a laser. The laser will activate a gel that binds with the outer surface of the teeth. Once this has been done, the dentist will remove the gel and restore the tooth to its normal appearance. Removing molars and lifting of teeth is another common procedure done by cosmetic dentists. This procedure allows a patient to have healthier teeth and a whiter smile.
Other dental procedures can make a person look better and help them feel better about their appearance. A good cosmetic dentist will be able to perform all of these things to make a person feel better about their appearance and look better than they did before. It is never too late to go to a dental practice and get the smile you want, but first, make sure you see if one exists in your area.
Dr. Newman is a family dental practitioner in Bellefonte and is accepting new patients. You may contact Dr. Newman at his office: Eagle Valley Family Dentistry, 745 South Eagle Valley Road, Bellefonte PA 16823, (814) 473-5554