COSMETIC DENTISTRY DEFINED

When you smile, you improve the lives of the people around you. Some people are afraid of smiling, though, because of the way their teeth or gums look. If you are afraid to show your best smile because you don’t like the way your teeth or gums look, you may be a candidate for cosmetic dentistry.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a term that refers to any dental procedure that has cosmetic benefits. This may also include procedures that provide practical benefits as well.

What Are the Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry can help to provide benefits to both the aesthetic look of the teeth and gums, and the health of the teeth and gums. Some of the benefits include:

• A boost in self-confidence.
• A brighter, whiter smile.
• Improved bite.
• Improved ability to eat food.
• A more complete smile.
• Elimination of pain and discomfort while biting and chewing.

Whether you want to improve the way your smile looks, or you simply want to ensure your continued oral health, various cosmetic procedures may be right for your needs.

What Are Some Common Cosmetic Procedures?

Because it isn’t just one thing, it’s beneficial to know the different types of procedures that fall under the umbrella of “cosmetic dentistry.” Some of these procedures include:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is an excellent procedure for patients that have yellow teeth, or teeth that have been stained by coffee, tea, tobacco, wine and more. This procedure can either be done at-home, or in-office with the help of a cosmetic dentist.

Dental Bonding

For issues involving minor damage to a tooth or teeth, dental bonding may be the best option. This includes situations in which the teeth are cracked, chipped or slightly discolored. Dental bonding involves the placement of a resin that bonds with the tooth to cover the damaged area.

Dental Veneers

A dental veneer is a dental appliance that is used to repair teeth that have been cracked, broken, chipped or have sustained any moderate damage. The placement of a dental veneer involves the reshaping of a healthy tooth to place the prosthetic. This provides a better aesthetic appearance, and more strength to the patient’s bite.

Dental Crowns

When teeth have been damaged beyond a certain point of repair, dental crowns may be the best option. A dental crown replaces the crown of a tooth, while still maintaining the root. Dental crowns are a good functional option that provide both strength and great cosmetic appearance.

Dental Implants

Dental implants can be used for patients that are missing a tooth or teeth, and still have a healthy jaw. Implants involve the placement of a titanium rod that is used to hold a false tooth in place via an abutment. This keeps the jawbone strong, and provides a complete smile for the patient.

Am I a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?

Speak with your dentist about the cosmetic changes that you would like done. They will let you know if you are a good candidate for a cosmetic procedure or procedures.

Interested in finding out more about what Drs. Leal, Spangler, and Johnson General and Cosmetic Dentists can do to help make your smile happy and healthy? Call or Contact us Today!

Interested in more specific information about cosmetic dentistry? Here's some tips on finding a cosmetic dentist near you.