Are your teeth stained, chipped, discolored, broken, worn, or have gaps between them? If yes, perhaps you might want to try out modern cosmetic dental care.
Typically, whenever we hear of cosmetic dentistry, the majority of people tend to think that it is a form of medical care meant for celebrities and the wealthy. However, this is not true.
Due to the current advancements in technology, it is now possible to access these services at the lowest price. There is a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry services and price ranges that are made available to millions of people across the world. Whether you are looking for subtle changes or major oral services, there is quite a wide range of modern dental services to be enjoyed.
Are you trying to figure out if cosmetic dentistry is a good idea for you in 2020? Read on to learn more about cosmetic dental care.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Unlike traditional dentistry methods that are primarily focused on improving the health of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dental care is mainly aimed at improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. It is a method of professional oral care that incorporates numerous techniques to improve the overall appearance of your smile.
Note that although this procedure is regarded as elective rather than essential, there is a ton of restorative benefits to be enjoyed. There are five types of cosmetic dental care. The most common types are quite simple while the more advanced methods are quite complex and require specialized care.
Types of Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is on the rise. Some of the reality shows are even showcasing how dentists transform any person’s teeth to give them that charming smile. Here are some of the common types of cosmetic dentistry.
- Teeth whitening
This is perhaps one of the most common types of dental procedures. It is mainly due to its quick and non-invasive treatment procedure that is capable of guaranteeing exceptional results – almost instantly. Besides, teeth whitening services are quite affordable, convenient, and highly regarded by the majority of people.
It is possible to bleach your teeth to achieve better results than the original. Besides bleaching, teeth whitening can also be done by using chemicals to clean debris, plaque, or tartar from the surface of your teeth to restore its natural appearance.
Also, you should note that teeth whitening is not permanent and requires maintenance for a prolonged effect.
- Dental Implants
If you are self-conscious about teeth loss, this is perhaps one of your best options. A dental implant is as its name suggests. They are synthetic root replacements that can be used to replace a missing tooth.
They are capable of not only replacing your missing tooth but also prevent further damage on your jaw bone as well as improve your smile.
Dental implants can provide you with the confidence to talk, smile, and eat properly in front of other people, which might also help prevent future health problems such as malnutrition. Besides, thanks to the currents advancements in technology, these implants are almost indistinguishable amongst the other natural teeth.
- Dental Veneers
A dental veneer is yet another method of a dental implant. Nonetheless, it is slightly different from the above treatment. Unlike the usual dental implant, it is manufactured from a special type of medical-grade ceramic.
What’s more, it is made for a specific person and resembles one’s natural teeth. According to Christine Frank, DDS, they are not only capable of matching an individual’s teeth but also are capable of solving numerous cosmetic problems.
Among some of these problems include noticeable gaps between two teeth, damaged or cracked teeth, as well as crooked teeth, just to mention a few. Its treatment involves direct application of the veneers on the front of the affected teeth using a dental adhesive.
Once it has been applied to the tooth, it creates a natural-looking or aesthetically pleasing new surface.
Note that like natural tooth enamel, it incorporates both tough and translucent properties. That’s not all! It is even better since, unlike natural tooth enamel, it does not stain.
- Composite Bonding
This treatment method is mainly used for repairs. A material that resembles the color of enamel is used to fill damaged and decayed teeth or apply on the discolored teeth.
Technically, the dentist drills the decayed tooth and fills the hole with the composite. In case there are any excess fillings, he or she “sculpts” it into the right shape then uses high-intensity light to curl it.
Also, based on the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, the process can be referred to as “bonding.” After a successful composite bond procedure, the resulting restoration is capable of blending seamlessly with an individual’s surrounding tooth structure.
Indeed, there is no doubt that this dental treatment method is not only capable of providing you with the required tooth structure but also ensures it gives you a healthier and brighter smile.
- Inlays and Onlays
This form of dental treatment method is also known as indirect filing. Typically, its specialty is mainly on the crowns and bridges. It is ideal for individuals looking to restore the functionality of a decayed tooth, replace a missing tooth, or replace a pre-existing crown.
Besides, it is also imperative to note that inlays and onlays are made in the lab.
The dentist uses a customized material that is designed with materials such as alloy, steel, metal or even gold to cover the tooth. Also known as “capping,” the treatment process is quite delicate and might take more than one visit before the desired crown is placed.
If you are looking to replace your tooth by a lifelike replacement, you will be required to undergo another form of treatment known as bridgework.
The bridging process involves filling up space on the missing tooth with at least three crowns. They are placed on the gap and the sides of the missing tooth. Additionally, supporting natural teeth are known as abutment teeth.
They act as a support for the missing tooth. The location of the missing tooth, as well as the length, amount of bone support, and size determine the number of abutment teeth that will be used in the bridging process.
What Are the Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry?
There is no doubt that the general or traditional dentistry method is capable of offering a myriad of benefits ranging from root canals and fillings to cleaning and extractions. However, cosmetic dental care provides added benefits. Below are some of these benefits:
- Beautiful Smile
Of course! It is perhaps one of the key benefits of cosmetic dental care. The main reason why the majority of people visit a dentist is to seek different treatment services or improve the appearance of their smile.
Multiple studies reveal that confidence in your smile is capable of improving your day to day undertakings. There’s always magic in your smile. Indeed, whether it’s a first date or a night out with your friends, a beautiful smile is fundamental.
Besides, it is also quite easy to smile if you are not embarrassed about your discolored, chipped, or crooked teeth. Imagine being on a first date where you can comfortably be yourself without worrying about how you look or an interview where you can freely smile at your interviewer. Besides doing away with the unsightly teeth, cosmetic dental care is capable of enhancing your smile –therefore, providing you with the confidence you deserve.
- Improvements in the Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Normally, traditional dentistry treatments take longer and have fewer chances of improvement. However, the current advancements in the cosmetic dental care industry have made the treatment process quicker and more efficient. Apart from that, the majority of these treatments are less painful and do not require anesthetics.
For the more complicated procedures such as implants, state-or-the-art lasers and sedation are incorporated to ensure the process is seamless. Thanks to the introduction of the sophisticated types of equipment and numerous improvements in the cosmetic dental care field, it is now possible to get that perfect smile pain free and without any anxiety.
- Defense Against the Effects of Aging
Sometimes, no matter how much you try to watch your oral health, you cannot control the effects of aging. What’s more, even when you try to hide your actual age and make yourself look younger, those teeth will always betray you. Nonetheless, thanks to the improvement method of dental treatment incorporated in modern cosmetic dental care, it is possible to build a strong defense against the effects of aging.
From a full set of implanted teeth to porcelain veneers, it is now possible to retain that beautiful smile with the modern cosmetic dental care even as you age.
How Do I Choose a Cosmetic Dentist?
Now that you know what cosmetic dental care is and its benefits, you might want to visit a cosmetic dentist. However, not all dentists will create the results you require. Indeed, the skills and expertise of the dentist you choose will have a significant impact on your final results.
So, how do you know how to choose the ideal cosmetic dentist? There are several vital things you should put into considerations. Start by asking for the following:
- Patient reference
- Before and after photos of recently treated patients
- Proof that they are qualified
That’s not all! You will also need to enquire about their AACD membership. Notably, all its members undergo rigorous training in cosmetic dental care, which requires a strict examination policy to attain membership. Alternatively, you can visit our website at docvlee.com to find a qualified dentist near you.
It is also necessary to note that any dentist with a degree in general dentistry cannot be qualified to perform the numerous types of cosmetic dental care and, therefore, being sure that the dentist you chose is up to the task should be a priority.
Although not many people have that perfect dental formula, thanks to the technology integrated into the dental cosmetic care industry – almost anyone can attain a fantastic smile with the help of a qualified dentist.
What Is Next After Cosmetic Dentistry?
So, you visited the cosmetic dental care specialist who worked hard to create that beautiful smile you’ve always admired, is that the end? No, you need to constantly take good care of your new dental formula to retain the perfect smile.
Luckily, it is quite easy. All you need are a few cosmetic dentistry aftercare tips, and you’ll be good to go.
First, you need to know that cosmetic dentistry aftercare includes your cosmetic dentist. That’s right – you are not done seeing your dentist, not just yet. You should visit your dentist regularly for cleaning. The routine checkups will be not only to ensure everything is healing correctly but also that your crowns, whitening procedure, or porcelain veneers are at their top-notch conditions.
Secondly, you should continue with aftercare at home. Besides visiting the dentist, you will be required to continue maintaining your brand new smile at home.
Among some of the critical things to watch out for are the type of toothpaste you use, regular flossing or brushing, and lower alcohol usage. Ensure you use toothpastes that are not abrasive to porcelain features such as veneers and crowns.
Regular brushing will prevent your new dentistry features from falling. Also, if you take alcohol, you will have to consider lowering your intake – at least at first. Note that the new porcelain items responsible for your amazing smile are held together by an adhesive that might detach when exposed to alcohol. Apart from that, you should refrain from chewing on hard items to avoid cracking your crowns or porcelain veneers.
Finally, a mouth guard is an essential tool that you should consider using, especially if you grind your teeth at night.
Is Cosmetic Dental Care Necessary?
Yes, cosmetic dental care is fundamental if you want to achieve that perfect smile you have always desired. After all, if a smile is a natural way to express your feelings, why shouldn’t we make it beautiful?
Put into consideration all the above insights on cosmetic dental care, and there is no doubt you will reap the full benefits of a beautiful smile. Check out our blog posts for more health care insights.
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