Cosmetic Dentistry: Procedures and Types

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Wishing for the perfect smile? Cosmetic dentistry may be the answer to your wishes. Cosmetic teeth aren’t just in fashion now, but have been for thousands of years. According to research, one of the first noted cosmetic dentistry work dates back to 700 BCE.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures can be performed by an aesthetic dentist who focuses on improving the appearance of smiles. Some of the most common cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers. In this article, we will discuss topics including what is cosmetic dentistry and the different types and procedures involved.

How is Cosmetic Dentistry Different from General Dentistry?

The goal of general dentistry is to prevent, address and treat dental diseases. A general dentist commonly performs procedures such as dental examinations, teeth cleanings, cavity fillings, root canals, and tooth extractions. These procedures help restore teeth’s health and function.

On the other hand, the main focus of cosmetic dentistry is on the appearance of the smile. Although cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry can overlap, cosmetic dental procedures are primarily performed after dental issues are treated. Treatments such as teeth whitening, enamel and gum contouring, and porcelain veneers for instance are common cosmetic dental procedures.

What are Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?

Teeth Whitening

One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening. Who doesn’t want a brighter smile? Teeth tend to become discolored over time due to age and worn down tooth enamel, certain medications, and consumption of dark-colored foods and drinks, for example. Both professional in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments can help remove tooth stains and brighten your smile.

Dental bonding

Another common cosmetic dental procedure is dental bonding. This treatment option helps restore small tooth cracks, tooth discoloration, misshaped teeth, and other minor abnormalities. This is accomplished using a natural-looking tooth-colored composite resin.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are designed to resemble your natural teeth and correct cosmetic imperfections. These restorations are thin shells that cover the front surfaces of teeth. They are used to help mask minor tooth cracks, staining, or misshaped teeth, among other minor abnormalities. Some veneers require minimal removal of tooth enamel, depending on the type of veneer placed.

Tooth Contouring

Tooth contouring is a simple procedure aimed at improving the shape of your teeth. Tooth enamel can be reshaped using dental tools and often does not require dental anesthesia, as only small amounts of enamel are removed. Tooth contouring can help eliminate small chips, misaligned teeth, or misshaped teeth, for instance.

Gum contouring

The gums can also be recontoured to improve the appearance of a smile. In cases where the gums appear to be unbalanced or there is excess gum tissue, your dental professional can remove and reshape the gums to appear more balanced.

Crowns

A dental crown is a dental restoration that encapsulates a tooth to restore its shape, strength, and overall appearance. Dental crowns are often placed when there is an insufficient amount of dental enamel. This could be a result of dental decay, tooth fracture, or an anomaly such as a small shape. Dental crowns can also be used to cover severely stained teeth.

Enamel Shaping

Enamel shaping also referred to as enameloplasty, can be performed to improve the esthetics of teeth. It involves the removal of just a few millimeters of tooth enamel, the outer layer of the teeth. Enamel shaping is commonly used to reshape minor tooth fractures, to correct small tooth misalignments, and to correct tooth size proportions.

Composite filling

Composite fillings can be used not only to treat dental cavities but also to fill in small chips, hide discoloration, and achieve a certain tooth size or shape. A tooth-colored composite resin is bonded to the teeth to achieve the ideal tooth size, shape, and color you desire.

Dentures

Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth, adding a natural look to your smile. These appliances are removable and can be either a partial or complete denture. Partial dentures are used to replace one or more natural teeth, while complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth. They contain a gum-colored acrylic base and a natural tooth-colored artificial tooth.

Bridges

Dental bridges function to replace a missing tooth or multiple teeth to help restore a smile. These restorations are made up of two or more dental crowns on either side of the missing tooth/teeth. They can be made from gold, metal alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials.

Implants

Dental implants are a popular treatment to replace one or more missing teeth, improving the appearance and function of your smile. Implants are placed within the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth and include a natural tooth-colored crown that connects to the metal post.

Smile makeovers

A smile makeover involves reinventing the appearance of a smile through one or more cosmetic dental procedures. Smile makeovers can show a drastic change when comparing before and after photos. Your dental professional will evaluate your entire smile, including the gums, lips, facial structure, and tooth characteristics when choosing to create your ideal treatment plan to transform your smile.

Advantages of cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dental procedures offer many advantages. Not only will cosmetic dentistry improve the overall appearance of your smile, but it can also boost your confidence and improve your well-being. By brightening your smile, improving the shape of your teeth, and concealing any abnormalities, you can ultimately change your life!

Disadvantages of cosmetic dentistry

As with everything, there can be some disadvantages. Cosmetic dental procedures are not typically covered by insurance. As a result, many individuals must pay out-of-pocket for cosmetic treatments.

In addition, cosmetic procedures are often the last step in your dental treatment plan, as dental issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral issues must be addressed prior to performing most cosmetic treatments. Individuals must also take note that some cosmetic dental procedures are irreversible, such as the removal of dental enamel in preparation for dental veneers.

When should I see my dentist?

Keeping up with regular dental checkups twice a year is important to maintain a healthy smile. You can also schedule a dental consultation anytime if you are interested in dental cosmetics. Your dental professional can discuss different options and develop a treatment plan to help improve the appearance of your smile based on your cosmetic goals.

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions at Great Lakes Family Dental

Cosmetic dentistry can provide you with a beautiful and healthy smile. Your smile is a key part of your being, which is why it is important to maintain it. From teeth whitening to dental veneers to full smile makeovers to any dental service you need, our experienced and caring team at Great Lakes Dental is here to provide you with top-notch quality and comprehensive care. Schedule an appointment today!

Author Bio:

Dr. Heather Smith is an orthodontist in the Central FL area. She is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Florida Association of Orthodontists, Florida Dental Association, and American Dental Association. Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts from Wellesley College. She received her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and her master's degree in dentistry and a certificate of orthodontics from Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics.