Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that is aimed at bringing a positive functional change or improving the appearance of your teeth. Treatment may include tooth whitening and the use of veneers or crowns and is usually provided by a specialist known as a cosmetic dentist.
Common Treatments in Cosmetic Dentistry:
1. Dental Veneers
These are composite/porcelain laminates which the dentist adhesively bonds to the surface of a cracked or chipped tooth. Veneers help correct the cracks and can also improve worn appearance and severe tooth discoloration. This treatment can also be recommended if one has huge gaps in their teeth or if they have not had any success with a teeth whitening procedure.
2. Dental Implants
These are artificial tooth root replacements which are mainly used in prosthetic (artificial teeth replacement) dentistry to compensate for loss of teeth.With dental implants, you not only have your smile back but you also get a more youthful appearance, as a missing tooth usually causes the face to fall, making one look older.
3. Composite Bonding
Composite bonding in cosmetic dentistry is used to repair or improve the appearance of a broken, chipped, discolored, or decayed tooth. During the procedure, the cosmetic dentist applies a composite material (that looks similar to the enamel and dentin) onto the surface of the affected tooth or into the cavity. The material is sculpted and contoured into shape, and then hardened by the use of high-intensity light. The restoration usually blends well with the remaining part of the surrounding tooth and tooth structure.
4. Indirect Fillings
Also known as inlays and onlays, indirect fillings are usually made from porcelain/composite materials and are a cosmetic, long-lasting way to provide a “filling” to a tooth with decay or structural damage. Unlike dental fillings which are fixed into place by the dentist, indirect fillings are usually made in a dental lab before being fitted. They are then bonded into place by the dentist and are a common practice in cosmetic dentistry.
5. Teeth whitening
This cosmetic dentistry procedure can whiten your teeth by up to eight times. Usually, the length of a teeth whitening procedure depends on the kind of treatment you want. There are 2 main teeth whitening procedures: laser and gel tray. The former provides the whiteness of teeth color you desire immediately after the treatment while the latter usually takes several months.
6. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are usually recommended if one has a seriously decayed or an unbearably sensitive tooth, or if they have had a root canal performed. They are tooth colored and shaped pieces of porcelain, metal or even both. Your cosmetic dentist will place the crown over the tooth to protect it as well as prevent further damage.
Cascade Dental offers premier cosmetic and general dental care services. Find out how they can offer you a more beautiful smile when you visit them online at Cascadesdental.com.
