Cosmetic Dentistry For A Spectacular Smile

Cosmetic Dentistry For A Spectacular Smile

The value of a beautiful smile should never be underestimated and although cosmetic dentistry is widely considered to be elective, it can have enormous physical, psychological and emotional health benefits. This field of dentistry has seen a number of advancements both in the procedures that are being performed as well as the materials, tools and equipment that are being used.

1. Teeth Whitening

This is the most basic form of cosmetic dentistry and involves different types of treatments that are applied to the teeth to make them appear whiter. Teeth whitening can also be used to remove stains but is not recommended for patients who have sensitive teeth, cavities or dental veneers, crowns, bridges, etc.

2. Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are used to correct a variety of cosmetic flaws from covering stains on the teeth to repairing cracked, corroded or broken teeth. These thin ceramic shells that are placed over and existing tooth are individually crafted and can also be used to correct misaligned teeth. The latest technology allows for veneers to be created in the dentist's rooms so the procedure does not require a follow up visit for the veneers to be fitted after they have been crafted in a lab.

2. Bridges

Bridges are normally used to replace 1 or 2 missing teeth. Teeth are tailored and crafted to match existing teeth in the mouth and then placed in a gap using the surrounding teeth as a foundation. 

3. Dentures

Dentures have come a long way and no longer consist of bulky, uncomfortable false teeth that your grandmother used to have. Partial dentures are often used to replace lost teeth that cannot be restored using bridgework. Full dentures are used to replace all the teeth in the mouth and often requires the removal of the teeth in order for a denture to be individually crafted and fitted.

Unlike veneers, dentures need to be made in a lab according to individual specifications. This is to ensure maximum comfort. Dentures are made from lightweight, durable materials and designed to look like natural teeth and blend into the gum line, making it difficult to tell that a person is wearing a denture.

4. Implants

This is the ultimate procedure to restore missing teeth but is however only recommended where more than 2 teeth are missing in a row or where bridges are not an option although it can be used to replace a single missing tooth. Implants involve a much more complicated surgical procedure that requires the removal of teeth, placement of metal posts into the jawbone and finally molds of the teeth are placed over the teeth. Bone grafting may be required depending on bone density of the jaw.

This is the preferred option for cosmetic dentistry as the teeth do not just appear as natural teeth, but also function in the same way. Missing teeth can cause the jawbone to deteriorate and the placement of metal posts assists in the jawbone functioning in the same way it would to hold teeth in place thereby preventing further deterioration of the bone.

For this reason, dentists will only remove a tooth if it is essential and will always opt for veneers or crowns for cosmetic purposes over other options.