The word cosmetic dentistry can be defined as a method that involves improving smiles, teeth, and the appearance of the mouth through oral care. Enlisted below are some of the most commonly used procedures.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are made in a dental laboratory and are commonly used on a patient’s teeth that have mild or moderate decay and any remaining tooth from the decay does not necessarily support filling. Inlays are used on teeth when their cusps have not incurred damage; in that case the inlays have to be placed directly on the surface of the teeth. On the other hand, if the cusps or most of the teeth are damaged, an onlay is to be used to cover the surface of the tooth entirely. Inlays and onlays are most important in the role of strengthening the teeth and stopping further decay.
Composite Bonding
This refers to using materials that resemble the enamel’s color to repair teeth that have decayed or even discolored. The dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth and then applies composite on the part that has been removed then shapes it and dries the composite using high intensity light. As expensive as this method of cosmetic dentistry is, its results are pleasant or rather satisfying to the patients. It gives the previously damaged or decayed tooth a healthy look.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are made from individual medical-grade ceramic to look like the original patient’s teeth. They look almost realistic and are believed to solve many cosmetic problems that include gaps, cracked or crooked teeth or even damaged enamel. In this procedure, the veneer is applied by the dentist using dental adhesive in front of each tooth.
Teeth Whitening
Stained teeth are a result of drinking coffee, wine, tea or even consuming some types of medication and the most common one which is smoking tobacco. That’s why teeth whitening is a basic procedure to improve one’s smile or appearance of the mouth. In this procedure which can also be known as teeth bleaching, teeth are cleaned first to restore their natural color. However, according to some dental sites, teeth can attain a lighter shade than the original through bleaching. Teeth whitening can also be done at home using toothpastes such as Colgate. This particular procedure is fast in the dental office though using the toothpaste can also bring similar results but after a much longer period. This basic method of bleaching can help attain confidence in a person’s appearance.
Implants
Extreme tooth decay, damage or accidents can cause the loss of teeth. Implants therefore replace lost teeth. In this particular procedure, the dentist supports the crown by inserting a small titanium screw onto the jaw of the missing tooth. Once the new tooth is in place, it looks exactly like the other surrounding natural teeth. It is secured firmly after the supporting tissue and the bone fuse together. The dentist recommends that the patient continue to uphold oral hygiene to clean plaque and remove food debris during the period of implant placement. Dental implants are appropriate in replacing lost teeth and making them look as good as new.