What You Need To Know About Cosmetic Dentistry
The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance your facial appearance. In contrast, the purpose of general dentistry Is focused on the prevention and treatment of dental issues. However, there are also benefits of cosmetic dentistry that can improve your overall oral health also.
Many patients have conditions or circumstances that can be improved through modern cosmetic dentistry procedures and techniques. Most people visit their dentist for professional teeth cleaning and other necessary dental procedures, which is the primary purpose of general dentistry. For oral health issues or conditions you want to address that are not considered preventative or medically necessary, ask your dentist if you would benefit from cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve and enhance your smile and oral health.
If you’re curious about the differences between cosmetic and general dentistry, some options available to you, and how they can impact your oral health, read on.
Main Differences Between General Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry
Your regular dentist focuses on preventative care, which includes teeth cleanings, dental fillings, crowns and bridges, and other therapeutic treatments. However, general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry overlap in some areas because restorative dentistry can also improve your teeth’ overall appearance, health, and function.
A cosmetic dentist will help to beautify your smile by improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. Many people can benefit from cosmetic dentistry, including you if you have any of the following conditions:
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Smaller gaps between your teeth
- Staining and two discolorations
- Misaligned or misshapen teeth
Cosmetic dentistry is both a science and an art to enhance your smile and even improve your oral health. Your dentist will help you decide which cosmetic dentistry procedures benefit you most.
Most Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Cosmetic dental procedures include options to correct and repair various dental issues and also help to boost self-esteem.
#1. Professional Cosmetic Teeth Whitening
You’ve probably seen DIY whitening kits in the store; however, professional cosmetic teeth whitening works significantly better. Professional whitening can help to remove discoloration or staining from your teeth caused by things like coffee, tea, berries, or smoking. It is not ideal for everyone, so ensure you check with your dentist beforehand.
#2. Cosmetic Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are made from porcelain or composite material and is a thin shell that your dentist will custom-make and then cement on the front side of your tooth. A cosmetic dentist may suggest dental veneers or a crown to help treat your dental issues, such as a chipped or cracked tooth or discoloration, or to cover small gaps between the teeth. In addition, veneers will improve your smile and help protect the tooth surface from further damage.
#3. Cosmetic Dental Implants
Dental implants serve both cosmetic and restorative dentistry and are designed to replace missing teeth. The implant is generally made out of titanium, which is surgically planted into the jawbone and acts as a tooth root to anchor artificial dentures, bridges, or crowns. If you have a missing tooth, there are many reasons to consider dental implants to improve your smile and oral health.
#4. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made to fit over your entire tooth and are usually made out of porcelain or acrylic fused with metal to help strengthen it to withstand chewing and biting pressure. Crowns are generally used in cosmetic dentistry to treat teeth that are broken or chipped, badly decayed, poorly shaped, have large fillings, or cover gaps between teeth. Your cosmetic dentist must prepare your tooth for the dental crown and determine if a crown is right for you.
#5. Cosmetic Teeth Contouring
For patients with a lot of natural enamel, a cosmetic dentist can do a procedure to help by removing or filling some of the enamel in small amounts, which will change the shape of your teeth. The process is called enamel shaping, is not generally painful, and produces effects immediately to enhance your beautiful smile.
#6. Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a process that involves your dentist applying a tooth-colored composite resin to cover up or conceal discoloration, hairline cracks, or other various cosmetic dental imperfections. Tooth bonding can also be used in a cavity to help repair a tooth affected by decay.
Your dentist can change your tooth’s shape, making it more uniform, longer, or broader using dental bonding, although it needs to be redone every five to seven years. The process is reversible as it does not require any natural tooth enamel removal.
#7. Cosmetic Gum Contouring
Some patients are born with excessive gum tissue, and it can make your smile appear unbalanced or gummy. A cosmetic dentist can remove excess gum tissue to help appreciate your gum line for a more balanced and symmetrical appearance to improve your smile dramatically.
#8. Cosmetic Orthodontic Procedures
Orthodontic treatments help both children and adults seeking to straighten crooked teeth for cosmetic purposes. A cosmetic dentist can tell you if an orthodontic treatment, such as clear braces, would help improve and enhance your smile.
Are You Ready To Enhance Your Beautiful Smile? We are Here To Help
At Carrie Muzny DDS, our team of experts offers compassionate and professional dental services for the whole family. Our services include restorative and cosmetic dentistry, surgeries, teeth whitening treatments, and preventative dentistry in the Woodlands, TX area.
Our extraordinary dentists utilize modern techniques, kindness, and compassion to ensure you feel comfortable. Contact us today to book an appointment and get the smile you have always dreamed of!
