Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental surgery that provides professional dental care and focuses on improving the appearance of your mouth, teeth, and smile. Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are elective, rather than essential. However, some cases also need restorative surgery such as of burns and trauma. The most common procedures used in cosmetic dentistry are presented below.
Inlays and Onlays
Also known as an indirect filling, this procedure is used when there is not enough tooth or jaw bone structure to support a filling or when a tooth has mild to moderate decay. If tooth cusps are not damaged, the inlay can be directly placed on the tooth surface. However, an onlay is a better choice if the cusp of the greater portion of the tooth is damaged. It covers the tooth’s entire surface.
Both inlays and Onlays are made from a composite resin material in a dental laboratory. They restore the shape of a tooth, provide support to strengthen the teeth, and help prevent any further decay. Through their website, the dentist in Highland Park explains that these procedures are not like traditional fillings. They are practical solutions for patients with minor decay who want to strengthen their teeth, hopefully avoiding future damage to their teeth. (1)
Composite Bonding
It is a procedure in which a discolored or damaged tooth is repaired using a synthetic material that resembles the color of tooth enamel. Before curing it with a high-intensity light, your damaged tooth will be first drilled out and then the dentist applies the composite onto the tooth surface. This procedure is known to effectively cover the damaged tooth and provide healthy tooth appearance in its place. It is the least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure that can be used to treat cracked or chipped teeth with worn-down edges.
Dental Veneers
It is one of the most effective cosmetic surgery procedures to get a resemblance of your natural teeth. Dental veneers are specifically designed for each patient. Dentists and orthodontists use this procedure to resolve numerous dental cosmetic problems including noticeable gaps between two teeth, crooked teeth or damaged enamel. Manufactured from medical-grade ceramic, dental veneers are attached to the front of each tooth to provide an exceptionally realistic look.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth can become stained due to over-consumption of sugary foods and drinks, personal habits such as smoking, and taking certain medications. Teeth whitening, or teeth bleaching, is one of the most basic cosmetic dentistry procedures. It is usually performed at the dentist’s office or at home after he found tartar, plaque or debris on the surface of your teeth. Removal of these stains helps to restore the natural colour and appearance of the teeth. One way this is sometimes achieved is through a tray whitening system. This involves making an impression of your teeth from which whitening trays are created. A gel is placed in the trays, and when used properly, this can result in teeth that are several shades whiter. To achieve an even lighter shade, you can also request that your dentist discuss teeth bleaching with you.
Implants
Dental implants are the artificial teeth used to replace damaged ones or fill up the empty space after tooth loss. In this procedure, your dentist will remove the damaged tooth and insert a small screw into the jawbone, which serves as a support for a crown. Dental implants are almost indistinguishable and considered more effective and durable than most traditional ways of treatment including root fillings. Once the implant is fused with the jaw bone and surrounding tissue, a crown is permanently cemented into the place.
The implant procedure is quite extensive and may take up to 2 years. To promote faster healing, you need to practice strict oral hygiene during the procedure to avoid certain complications like infections of the teeth and gums.
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