November 15, 2021

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry

Have you ever thought about straightening your teeth, whitening them, or removing a pesky stain from a specific tooth? If so, you will likely need some form of cosmetic dentistry.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a form of dentistry that focuses on the appearance and aesthetics of teeth, rather than function. A cosmetic dentist specializes in whitening teeth and improving the overall appearance of a smile, whether you are looking to close a gap in between your teeth or if you are interested in veneers or individual crowns. 

What Type of Services Are Included in Cosmetic Dentistry?

A dentist and dental practice that provides cosmetic dentistry services will likely provide an array of options, depending on your needs as well as the current health and condition of your teeth.

Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry services provided by cosmetic dentists. Professional teeth whitening systems utilize state-of-the-art science and technologies to deliver fast and long-lasting results compared to over-the-counter teeth whitening solutions. 

Crowns

If you have a tooth that is decaying or that is damaged, you might consider getting a crown to replace the tooth entirely without changing the appearance or authenticity of your natural smile. A crown is ideal for those who are only interested in replacing one or a small number of teeth, as opposed to receiving an entire denture set. Crowns are typically considered a "full coverage" restoration choice for those who want to replace an existing tooth that is stained, damaged, or decayed beyond repair. 

Bridges

Bridges are typically used to help with improving the appearance of a smile while assisting with issues that are most commonly associated with individuals who struggle with missing teeth. Having a missing tooth in your mouth can lead to a misaligned jaw, speaking issues, or even trouble with chewing and swallowing. Bridges provide authentic and genuine results while also helping to improve other issues you might experience as a result of losing a tooth for any reason. 

Veneers

Are you interested in a brand new smile and one that offers you the smile you have always wanted? If so, veneers may be an option for you. Traditional veneers are decorative coverings that are applied over your existing teeth using a thin material. Veneers appear as natural teeth, but simply help to fill in cracks and shape your smile as you see fit.

Veneers are optimal for those who are interested in improving various teeth imperfections such as gaps, cracked teeth, chipped teeth, and even stained or darkened teeth. Veneers are also ideal solutions for individuals who are interested in improving or fixing small alignment issues with their teeth and their natural smiles. 

Bonding

Bonding is another cosmetic dentistry procedure that helps to improve the appearance of teeth. Bonding is best for patients who are looking to fix any chipped teeth, gaps, or discolorations they have with a minimally-invasive procedure. Bonding procedures are ideal for those who are also interested in long-term results. Typically, a bonding procedure will only require one visit and will provide years, if not decades of protection. 

Invisalign

If you are struggling with teeth that are not straight enough or if you are finding it difficult to straighten your bite out, Invisalign may be right for you. Invisalign is a teeth-straightening and correcting solution that utilizes invisible removable aligners that are customized and personalized for each individual patient. Using Invisalign is one of the most effective methods of straightening teeth without minimizing comfort or requiring clunky and outdated metal braces. 

Filler and Botox

If you are interested in changing and improving the appearance of your mouth and smile with alternative solutions, consider Botox and dental fillers. Botox and dental fillers are used to plump lips, cheeks, cheekbones, and other areas of the face and facial structure, providing a more supple and youthful appearance. With both Botox as well as alternative dermal fillers, there are plenty of options to choose from based on the aesthetics you are going for with your look. 

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for Me?

If you are in the market for teeth whitening, straightening, bonding, or veneer solutions, cosmetic dentistry is right for you. Whether you have one tooth that has been nagging at you for years or if you are ready to change the look of your entire smile, a cosmetic dentist can help you achieve the results you envision for yourself.