Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the aesthetic appearance of teeth. There are many different types of cosmetic dental services, so it’s important to find one who can help you achieve your desired results. Dr. Skeens from Encinitas Family Dentistry will help you learn more about the types of work these professionals do and how they can help
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental science that focuses solely on enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth. There are many procedures that fall under the cosmetic umbrella, including tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges, gum contouring, restorative contouring/recontouring (such as jaw reduction surgery), orthodontics to straighten teeth or place implants or braces inside the mouth to improve bite strength or aid in aesthetics.
Dentists suggesting the following different types of cosmetic dentistry?
- Porcelain veneers
- Composite bonding
- Teeth whitening
- Implants
- Dental bridges
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin laminates that are placed over teeth. They can change the shape, size, color, and alignment of teeth. Orthodontics may also improve the look of veneers since crooked or crowded teeth can create problems for them.
Porcelain laminates are created from powdered porcelain mixed with water to form a paste. The paste is shaped into a tray that holds an impression of the tooth it will be attached to. The impression is sent off to a dental lab for fabrication of the laminate porcelain veneer that will be bonded onto your prepared tooth structure by a dentist during a dental appointment, usually two weeks after your initial visit so as not to disturb your newly added dental work.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding is a dental material that is used to restore the function of teeth, provide shape, and design for appearance. Composite bonding works by utilizing composite resin which is white in color. This material is used for creating fillings as well as crowns due to its ability to mimic the properties of natural enamel which strengthens the tooth itself. Some benefits of composite bonding include being cost-efficient, versatile enough for any dental application, long-lasting or permanent results, not requiring prepping of the tooth surface removing the risk of damage to its structural integrity, quick procedure time (in some cases 10 minutes), minimal discomfort during cosmetic procedures, no post-operative limitations on eating consistency or cold sensitivity.
Teeth whitening
Also known as teeth bleaching or dental bleaching, is a common cosmetic dental procedure. There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home (or take-home).
In-office (or professional) teeth whitening typically involves the client sitting in a chair for about an hour while the dentist applies some type of whitening agent to the teeth. Multiple appointments may be needed for desired results.
Take-home teeth whitening is the application of bleaching material for a prescribed length of time with monitored oral hygiene. The most common method involves the use of home-use light-activated systems. There are many different types of take-home teeth whitening products available on the market, but they all fall into one of two categories: powered or non-powered (or tray). Powered take-home systems typically involve custom trays that are filled with some type of bleaching gel and worn either full time or at night only. Take-home tray systems usually contain hydrogen peroxide in concentrations between 6% and 35%.
Dental Implants
Dental Implants are a great way to replace missing teeth.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of titanium that provides a foundation for replacing a natural tooth. Dental implants are surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone where they act as a substitute for the roots of natural teeth. The person receiving the implants will need them to be replaced after ten years; although, in some cases, they can last up to twenty years.
There are two parts that make up each implant:
- A fake or replacement root is inserted into an individual’s jawbone and
- An abutment, which is what holds the crown onto the replacement root.
Dental Implant procedures provide satisfactorily successful outcomes in esthetics, function, and stability for most people.
Dental bridges
These are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are permanent fixtures that are cemented into place on either side of the four remaining teeth. A dental bridge, which can also be known as a fixed partial denture, is an artificial replacement for the natural tooth roots.
Dental bridges are made from many materials including gold, porcelain, and metal alloys. When matching your new bridge to your existing teeth, your dentist will take into consideration color, size and shape in order to create something optimal for you. Bridges look very natural because they fit over surrounding teeth as real crowns or caps do.
Conclusion
Hope you’ve found the information provided here is valuable and informative. If you’re reading this article from the Encinitas area and looking for a cosmetic dentist, Encinitas Family Dentistry is recommended for the best treatment.
Dental Health Tips 