Cosmetic dentistry is a dental procedure, which improves the appearance of the teeth, gums, or smile. It focuses on enhancing the physical appearance of oral esthetics and is not intended to medically repair or replace damaged teeth. A cosmetic dentist who does both non-cosmetic and cosmetic dental procedures together is known as a cosmetic dentist. A cosmetic dentist must be licensed separately from an orthodontist. Cosmetic dentists practice in all states and must pass a comprehensive set of examinations by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. The AACD was founded in 1984 and is now established and recognized as the world’s largest organization for cosmetic dental professionals.
The most common procedures practiced by cosmetic dentists include veneers, bonding, teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, Lumineers, contouring, Invisalign, gum lifts, and appliance restoration.
Cosmetic dentistry can correct the following issues:
- Crooked teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
Cosmetic dentistry procedures
Veneers, the application of porcelain or composite material on the surface of teeth, can alter their shape and give a more youthful appearance.
Bonding is used to strengthen the gums and underlying bones to give a more natural appearance.
Whitening is used for persons who have discolored teeth and whitening appliances restore their white teeth to their natural color.
Crowns are caps that cover damaged teeth and bridges are false aligners that unite two disarticulated tooth surfaces.
Invisalign clear aligners transform your teeth with minimal discomfort. They work incrementally with a new set every couple of weeks until the desired result is achieved. Invisalign has many benefits over metal braces and does not require wires and brackets.
Some aesthetic conditions can be corrected by cosmetic dentistry. For example, if you have a crooked smile, it may be possible to straighten it with bonding, however, depending on the severity, clear aligners may be a better option.
Another condition that can be corrected is a chipped or cracked tooth making it even, by taking microscopic fractures and sanding them down. Chipped teeth do not heal or repair by themselves therefore a dentist can reshape a chipped tooth so that it looks symmetrical. Cosmetic dentists also can repair the appearance of cracked teeth by applying veneers.
Teeth reshaping and gum lifts are other popular procedures used by cosmetic dentists. When a patient has gum disease, a dental professional can reshape the gum line by lifting the gums and making them appear higher. In addition, gum lifts can help reduce the wrinkles around a smile. Most cosmetic treatments are elective, and most patients qualify for the treatments because of their low cost and the benefits they provide.
If you need help choosing a smile makeover, do not hesitate to ask for a consultation from a cosmetic dentist in your area. Ask what the procedures available are and what the dentist will charge for any treatment plan you select. Keep in mind that it can take several treatments to correct a smile, and you should be patient with the process. You may find that simple whitening treatment is all you need to give your smile the sparkle it needs.
The field of cosmetic dentistry continues to expand with exciting and new technologies being introduced each year. Dental science is steadily refining its techniques and producing amazing results. Cosmetic dental procedures are performed by trained professionals who use innovative dental technology to improve the overall look of your smile. Contact a cosmetic dentist in your area today to learn more about the many procedures available.
Mohip Dental & Associates of Wellington is the premier general and cosmetic dental practice located in the Village of Wellington Florida. Call today and schedule a consultation. Phone (561) 798-1600.
