How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist
If you are concerned about the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help. However, it is important to choose a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry and has the experience to do the work.
A cosmetic dentist can perform a variety of procedures to improve the appearance of your teeth and gums. They may include whitening, veneers, and dental implants.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a long-term solution to missing teeth that can improve appearance and oral health. They are durable, easy to clean and do not require specialized maintenance like dentures.
Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone in place of a missing tooth, and they gradually bond with it over time. A dentist can then replace the implant with a replacement tooth, called a crown, after about six months.
Cosmetic dentists evaluate their patients to determine if they are good candidates for dental implants. They look at jaw bone density and bone loss, as well as the condition of the gums and general health. People with certain health conditions, such as diabetes or blood clotting disorders, may not be good candidates for implants.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic treatment that can fix minor cosmetic flaws in teeth such as chips, cracks, discoloration, and gaps. The procedure usually takes place in one appointment and is a good choice for patients of all ages who want to improve the appearance of their smile.
To start, the dentist will roughen the tooth surface and apply a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere. Next, the putty-like resin is applied, shaped, and smoothed until it matches the color and sheen of your surrounding teeth. Then an ultraviolet light or laser hardens it.
Teeth Whitening
Dental whitening is a common cosmetic procedure that can whiten teeth by several shades. This process involves the use of hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or laser light to break down and change the color of stains on teeth.
Teeth are composed of three primary layers: pulp (the hollow chamber inside your teeth), dentin, and enamel. Enamel is a hard, white layer that covers the dentin and is responsible for protecting your teeth.
Stains tend to sit on the enamel and pellicle layer due to your diet and habits, which cause them to be more difficult to remove with daily brushing and flossing. This can make teeth appear discolored and dull over time.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure that corrects various tooth problems. They can cover stains, close gaps, correct spacing issues and straighten crooked teeth.
To prepare for porcelain veneers, the dentist will remove a very small amount of enamel on the front surface of your tooth. Once the porcelain veneer is bonded to your teeth, it will look just like your natural enamel.
Veneers are one of the most popular procedures that a cosmetic dentist can use to improve a patient’s smile. They are easy to maintain and provide lifelong results.
Invisalign
Straighter teeth can improve your smile and your overall health, as well as your self-confidence. Despite this, many people avoid braces due to pain, time and cost.
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces that is less visible and more comfortable than other dental treatment options. It involves wearing a series of clear aligners that gradually straighten teeth.
Each aligner moves the teeth a quarter of a millimeter. It takes between 12 and 18 months for most Invisalign patients to achieve their desired smile.
You’ll need to visit the dentist at regular intervals to check your progress. You also need to clean your aligners daily – morning and night – to prevent buildups of plaque or bacteria.
