What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

One might argue that cosmetic dentistry is the form and function of the ten different dental specialties. That is because cosmetic dentistry if far more about the form versus the function. The practice really focuses on creating a positive change to your teeth and your smile more so than the health and logistic implications of periodontics or orthodontics. It has been proven that a healthy smile can add up to seven years to your life. Your smile defines your personality. It is the foundation for both your self-esteem and your self-confidence. A healthy smile can be a huge mood booster thus affecting your immune system. Let’s look at some popular cosmetic dentistry procedures.

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Teeth whitening might be the number one cosmetic application. Either done at home with over the counter kits or done professionally in the dental office, teeth whitening can remove the discoloration from smoking or the stains from coffee and red wine. With the enamel back to its natural color you would be surprised how much more you will smile. You may have found yourself becoming self-conscious of the imperfections of your smile.

Composite Bonding is another popular cosmetic solution to improve your overall looks when it comes to smiling. This practice can cover up unwanted cracks, chips and even close the unfortunate gaps between two teeth. Not functional in nature, the enamel surface is simply roughed up and a plastic like material is shaped, sculpted and smoothed over the tooth or teeth in question. Hardened with an ultraviolet light the new finish will look totally natural.

Dental Veneers is taking the bonding concept up a notch. This is when a wafer-thin custom shell fabricated in either porcelain or ceramic is bonded to the front of a tooth with a permanent adhesive. This solution is growing in popularity of the front teeth truly enhancing a natural and healthy smile.

Inlays or onlays are done under the cosmetic dentistry umbrella. Much like a filling in concept they can be fabricated of composite resin to actually provide more support to a given tooth.

Dental Implants are the last category growing dramatically in popularity in the field of cosmetic dentistry. If you have lost a tooth and don’t want to deal with a dental bridge, the dental implant is the next best thing to your natural tooth even though it is artificial. The dentist will surgically place a titanium post in your jawbone where the tooth is missing. After this post has had a chance to fuse to the bone an extension or abutment will be added so the post will reach the surface. A fabricated porcelain or ceramic crown will be affixed to the post and you now have a permanent replacement tooth.

The Reasons for Cosmetic Dentistry

To take your smile further it can give you a chance to make a favorable first impression. It can also improve your chances of career success. You may experience an improvement in your overall sense of comfort, and it may be necessary it to improve your psychological healing from possibly a traumatic injury.

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