4 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Your smile is one of the first things others notice about you. Cosmetic dentistry procedures focus on the appearance of the patient's teeth and gums to create a dazzling smile that can increase the patient's self-confidence.
Whitening
Teeth often become stained over time from food, drinks, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or chewing tobacco. Whitening treatments aim to reduce yellowing and brighten the teeth.
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures because it's one of the least expensive and least invasive treatments.
Whitening treatments can be done in your dentist's office or at home, though stronger bleaching solutions are available for in-office treatments.
Bonding
Dental bonding, sometimes called composite resin bonding, is an ideal cosmetic procedure for people with teeth that have gaps or are cracked, chipped, crooked, or misshapen. Bonding helps standardize the size and shape of the teeth.
The bonding procedure involves the cosmetic dentist using composite resin, similar to the material used for filling routine cavities, to fill in or shape the patient's natural tooth. This material can be matched to the color of the natural teeth so it doesn't look out of place.
Implants
Dental implants are a common cosmetic procedure that can improve the function of the teeth as well as the appearance. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically attached to the jawbone where there is a missing tooth.
The bone grows around and into the dental implant over the following weeks to provide a solid foundation for an artificial tooth to be placed over the implant post. This process is called osseointegration.
The post of the implant acts similarly to a natural tooth's root once the osseointegration process is complete. Once the implant is placed, a dentist can place a crown over it so it looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Veneers
Whether your teeth are discolored, misshapen, or damaged, veneers can greatly improve the appearance of your smile. Most dental veneers are made of porcelain and cover the entire front and sides of a tooth so the natural tooth underneath isn't visible.
Veneers are an easy way to whiten your smile and fix aesthetic issues with your teeth at the same time. Porcelain veneers are permanent once they're attached, and the procedure can be costly, especially if you want to have veneers put on multiple teeth.
Every patient is unique. If you're considering cosmetic dental care, talk to your dentist about what procedures would be good options for you.
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