Cosmetic Dentistry
1. What is cosmetic dentistry? Cosmetic dentistry is simply this – taking steps to
help your smile look its best. Here are the most common procedures available
in cosmetic dentistry today:
a. Tooth whitening - The most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure in the
world today is tooth bleaching. Most everyone is a candidate regardless
of age and it can be done at home over a couple of weeks or in the
office in one to two hours.
b. Tooth bonding and contouring – This can dramatically enhance a smile in
a conservative way. If you have small chips, gaps or uneven teeth, the
teeth can be slightly reshaped and tooth-colored bonding material can be
applied to your teeth. No numbing is usually required for this procedure,
and it can be done in one appointment.
c. Braces – This is also a relatively conservative approach to cosmetic
dentistry, but the treatment time involves months or years. Invisalign
(clear) braces have become a mainstream way to treat most cases, but
sometimes traditional bands and brackets are required. Many adults are
choosing braces for smile enhancement these days – it’s not just for
teenagers anymore!
d. Gingival contouring – If your gum tissue has become overgrown or
uneven, talk to your dentist about this procedure. People with high smile
lines, uneven gums, and otherwise beautiful teeth should consider gum
contouring, otherwise known as periodontal plastic surgery.
e. Veneers – When most people talk about “cosmetic dentistry” they are
talking about porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that
are bonded to the front of teeth. They are used to correct chips,
spaces, and teeth that may be resistant to bleaching. Depending on
your situation, your teeth may need to be prepped for the best results.
Lumineers, Vivaneers or Durathin veneers are a type of veneer that is
remarkable. They are contact-lens thin - so thin that in many situations,
they can be done without prepping the teeth. Veneers can enhance a
single tooth or can be used to complete a total smile makeover.
Although most Hollywood stars have perfect smiles thanks to porcelain
veneers, they are not just for Hollywood anymore. Many adults in
mainstream America choose to get veneers for the dramatic results that
can be realized in just two appointments.
f.
Crowns – The same results as veneers are achieved, but crowns are
chosen when there is more of a breakdown of the teeth due to decay or
wear. All-porcelain crowns tend to be more cosmetic in nature than
porcelain fused-to-metal crowns, so be sure to discuss your type of
crown with your dentist.
2. How important is your smile? Smiles are usually the first thing we notice about
each other. Smiles can tell us a lot about someone. Smiles can show health,
happiness and confidence or sadness and embarrassment if you are trying to
hide your teeth. People with healthy, exuberant smiles tend to be more
successful in their careers and have a higher earning potential. If you are not
feeling confident about your smile, it can hold you back from relationships and
opportunities. It’s not all about the teeth – it’s about how you feel about your
teeth. If you are feeling self-conscious about your teeth, I urge you to talk to
your dentist. There are so many options available today to enhance your smile
that may not have been available to you even just a few short years ago.
3. Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry? Most everyone can benefit
from cosmetic dentistry procedures. Which type of cosmetic dentistry is best
for you is best decided by you and your dentist. The condition of your teeth
(decay, presence of gum disease, tooth wear and tear, and spacing) and also
your desires will help determine which route to take. Cosmetic dentistry always
looks better on a healthy smile, so you should start with a routine check-up
and teeth cleaning. Be sure to tell your dentist you want a cosmetic dentistry
consultation. Dentists know that most everyone’s smile can be enhanced with
cosmetic dentistry, but they want to talk about your options when you are
ready to do so. Helping patients achieve a smile they can be proud of is what
dentists love most about their job.
4. Is cosmetic dentistry worth the time and the cost? Can you really put a price
on confidence and life opportunities? Patients don’t regret improving their smile.
They only regret that they waited so long to do it.
5. How long will my new smile last? Whitening should be touched up every few
months. Bonding should be touched up every few years due to wear and
staining. Results achieved from braces last as long as you are wearing
retainers. Porcelain veneers and crowns are meant to last a lifetime. It is
important that you see your dentist regularly to prevent decay and damage to
your new restorations, especially if you are prone to decay or if you tend to
grind your teeth.
6. How quickly will I be able to complete my cosmetic dentistry treatment? That
depends on which route you take. Whitening will take anywhere from one hour
to two weeks. Bonding will take one appointment. Porcelain veneers and
crowns will take at a minimum two appointments. Braces do take some time,
but keep in mind that the results can be dramatic and last a lifetime.