Many people have issues with their smile that impact their confidence. These may include discoloration, chips, or crooked teeth. Cosmetic dentistry addresses these problems.
Dental bonding is a tooth-colored resin that can repair cracks, chips, and misshapen teeth. It can also fill in gaps or replace silver fillings. Bonding is typically done in one appointment.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are usually associated with restorative dentistry because they replace missing teeth, but they also have cosmetic benefits. They are the most permanent tooth replacement option available, and they can prevent jawbone deterioration when they are placed in the bone where teeth are missing.
Implants are typically made of titanium, but they may be made from ceramic or zirconia for patients with metal allergies. During the dental implant process, your dentist will first use a scalpel to create and peel back two gum flaps to expose the underlying jawbone. A hole will then be drilled into the jawbone, and the implant will be inserted. If the implant is placed in the upper jaw, a sinus augmentation may be performed to raise the sinus floor and provide room for the implant.
Once the implant is healed, it will be time to restore it with a crown or bridge that will replicate your natural teeth. The healing process for a dental implant can take several months, and you must keep up with regular visits to your dentist to ensure the success of your treatment.
Although cosmetic dentistry procedures are elective and not necessary for your overall health, they can enhance the appearance of your smile and boost self-esteem. Some of the most popular procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign clear aligners.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding, also known as tooth bonding or composite resin, is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that uses a durable dental material to repair and enhance teeth. This simple and quick procedure is ideal for fixing a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including chipped teeth, discoloration, or closing gaps between teeth. The bonded resin blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth for an even and attractive smile. Typically, we can complete dental bonding in just one visit.
Before beginning the procedure, we will discuss your aesthetic goals and take X-rays to confirm that you are a good candidate for treatment. If you have serious tooth decay or gum disease, we may need to treat these issues before bonding can occur.
During the procedure, we will first apply a mild etching solution to the surface of your teeth, slightly roughing them up and conditioning them for bonding. Then we will apply small amounts of the composite resin to the affected tooth, sculpting and shaping it as needed. We will then use a high-intensity light to harden the resin. Once the tooth is fully bonded, we will polish it and make any final adjustments to ensure that your bite feels comfortable.
While the bonded resin is stain-resistant, it is not as strong as natural tooth enamel, and you will need to avoid consuming foods and beverages that are likely to cause stains. It is also important to practice proper oral hygiene and schedule regular professional cleanings and exams to help prevent cavities or other dental problems.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic treatments offered in dentistry. It uses bleaching agents to lighten a tooth’s natural color and remove staining caused by foods, drinks, tobacco, age and genetics. It can brighten a patient’s smile up to seven shades in only one in office visit, although the results can fade with time.
There are different types of whitening products available, including over-the-counter products that use a lower concentration of bleaching agents and teeth whitening kits that include customized mouth trays for at-home treatment. Typically, dentists will use a professional-grade whitening product that contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Both of these substances react with chromogens (color molecules) to lighten teeth.
Aside from teeth whitening, other cosmetic procedures that may be offered by your dentist include:
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that can be placed on the front of a tooth to cover up a variety of aesthetic flaws. These include chips, cracks, discoloration, and crooked teeth. They can also be used to close small gaps between teeth. Veneers can be made from porcelain or a composite resin and are typically considered permanent, though they may need to be replaced in the future.
Before veneers are installed, your dentist will take scans, X-rays, and photographs of your mouth. This helps them determine the color, shape, and size of your new smile. Your dentist will then shave off a small portion of the surface of your teeth. This is done to ensure that your new veneers fit your natural teeth and don’t make them appear bulky.
During your next appointment, your cosmetic dentist will attach the veneers to the surface of your teeth. If you are nervous about this procedure, your dentist can give you non-permanent veneers to wear for seven to ten days to get used to the look of them. Once your dentist is satisfied that the veneers are a good match, they will permanently bond them to your natural teeth.
To maintain your new veneers, be sure to brush them twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily. It is important to avoid smoking, drinking a lot of dark-colored beverages, and eating hard foods that could cause them to chip or break. You should also see your dentist for regular cleanings and exams to ensure that they are free of stains and in good condition.