Cosmetic dentistry has advanced significantly over time. There are various types of cosmetic dentistry treatment options to enhance the look of your teeth. Whether you are interested in brightening your teeth, correcting a chipped tooth, or wishing for a smile makeover, there is a need for a cosmetic dental procedure according to your needs.
This cosmetic dental guide gives an idea about the most common cosmetic dental procedures and what to expect from these treatments.
Teeth Whitening
Whitening is the most common type of cosmetic dentistry procedure. It involves bleaching your teeth to make them one shade lighter. Teeth whitening tends to improve your smile by removing stains present on teeth. These stains are caused due to coffee, tea, wine, or habits like smoking, and some medications like tetracycline and doxycycline.
There are two teeth whitening procedures: in-office and at-home dental bleaching. In-office dental whitening is done by a dentist and can show visible results in a short time, usually in one visit.
At-home whitening kits are provided to you by your cosmetic dentist. These kits allow teeth whitening over one or two weeks. This technique uses custom-made trays and a low concentration of bleaching acids.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, customized shell-like crowns made to cover the front surface of front teeth. They are constructed using porcelain or composite resin. These veneers are bonded to your teeth. They improve the color, shape, size, or length of natural teeth. Veneers are made to correct chipped, broken, discolored, or misaligned teeth.
The procedure for veneers involves two visits to the dental office. During your first visit, the dentist prepares the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel. Impressions of prepared teeth are taken using alginate. These impressions are sent back to a dental lab, and customized veneers are fabricated. During the second visit, the dentist bonds the veneers to your teeth. Veneers give you a natural and cosmetic dental smile.
Dental Bonding
Binding is a restorative dental procedure in which a resin that is tooth-colored is applied on the tooth defect. This resin is hardened using a curing light, and the resin adheres to the tooth. This resin restoration improves the look of your natural teeth. They correct any chipping, cracked, discolored, or gaps between the teeth.
Bonding is an easy and cost-effective cosmetic procedure that can be done in a single visit. The process starts with roughening the tooth surface, followed by the application of an etchant and bonding agent and shaping the resin according to the tooth’s form. After the resin hardens, it is finished and polished to match the shade and shape of the remaining tooth.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns or caps cover a damaged or destructed tooth. A dental crown rebuilds the shape, size, strength, and look of a tooth. Crowns are used to protect a weakened and brittle tooth from fracture and strengthen the tooth undergoing root canal treatment. Dental crowns are a common option for maintaining cosmetics in dentistry.
Crowns are made from materials like porcelain, metal, or zirconium. The procedure for placement of the crown takes two visits. During the initial visit, the tooth preparation is done, followed by dental impressions. A temporary crown is placed during that visit. The permanent crown is fabricated and cemented in place during the second visit.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are dental reconstructions that restore the upper surfaces of back teeth that cannot be restored. They are made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin and bonded to the defective area of the tooth.
Inlays are used when the tooth’s cusps are damaged, while only when the damage is beyond the cusps. The inlays/onlays are custom-made in a dental lab. Even these restorations need two visits to the dentist. Inlays and onlays are an alternative to traditional fillings. They provide a strong and longer-lasting option.
Dental Implants
Dental implants act as a long-term answer for the replacement of missing teeth. An implant is made up of a titanium post. This screw is surgically inserted in the jawbone. It acts as a replacement foundation for a missing tooth. A crown is then further attached to the implant. Implants provide a natural look and function efficiently.
The process of dental implants takes multiple visits. After the placement of the implant in the jawbone, the bone fuses with the implants by a healing process called osseointegration. After healing is accomplished, an abutment is placed on the implant, followed by a crown.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments include braces and clear aligners. They are used to treat misaligned teeth. Traditional braces are essentially metal brackets and wires that gradually move the teeth. Clear aligners for Invisalign can be used instead of braces. Aligners are a series of custom-made and clear plastic trays used over time to move teeth.
Orthodontic treatments correct crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, deep bites, and open bites. The time required to complete the treatment varies according to the complexity of the malocclusion.
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring, known as gum reshaping, is a type of cosmetic dental treatment that improves the shape of your gum line. This procedure is done to change a gummy smile, which is excessive visibility of gum tissue covering the teeth, making the teeth appear short.
The procedure begins with removing excess gums and accurately shaping the remaining gums. This created a balanced and aesthetic gum line. Sometimes, bone needs removal or reshaping. Gum contouring is done using a scalpel, laser, or electro surgery.
Conclusion
Cosmetic dentistry offers many treatment options to improve the beauty of your smile. Whether you are looking for a basic teeth whitening procedure or a smile makeover, there is a cosmetic dental procedure for every need. Consult with your dentist about your specific goals and choose the best type of cosmetic dentistry option for you. With the right care and attention, you can build a beautiful and confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry? Let professionals guide you.
If you desire a beautiful, dazzling smile, contact Dental On First immediately. Our expert in cosmetic dentistry will guide you through every step of your smile makeover, ensuring the best service.
Schedule your appointment today for the finest dental care and answers to all your periodontal concerns, or call 952-758-3003 instantly.
Or contact us here.