What Can Cosmetic Dentistry Do For Me? by Nick Messe

Cosmetic dentistry is the use of dental techniques and equipment to enhance the appearance of the teeth and smile, as well as the health of the teeth. Cosmetic dentists are not only required to possess an extensive knowledge of dental health, but also a special artistic ability that allows them to improve the appearance of the teeth. Due to recent advancements in technology, dentists are now able to improve the appearance of the teeth through a number of different techniques.

Cosmetic dentistry is commonly thought of including procedures that patients elect to undergo for purely aesthetic purposes. While this is true with many cosmetic dental procedures, this is not always the case. Many cosmetic dentists are also skilled and experienced in restorative dentistry, as well as cosmetic procedures.

Restorative dentistry is similar to cosmetic dentistry, as it commonly improves the appearance of a patient's smile, yet restorative dentistry refers to procedures that a patient must undergo to ensure proper dental health. Two examples of restorative procedures are fillings and dental implants. While these two procedures improve the appearance of the teeth, they also help to restore a smile to its ideal condition and protect teeth against cavities and decay.

However, there are also many dental procedures that are able to give patients a dazzling smile. One very popular dental procedure is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening procedures allow dentists to remove stains on the enamel of the teeth and restore the teeth to a bright white. These stains can easily be caused by smoking, coffee, red wine, and other highly pigmented foods and beverages. As many people age, they commonly notice that their teeth have become yellowed or are simply not as white as they once were. A teeth whitening procedure can greatly enhance the appearance of the teeth and supply a patient with a beautiful smile.

Cosmetic dentistry can also improve the appearance of teeth that have suffered from noticeable decay or have become chipped or worn. Dentists can accomplish this by offering patients the opportunity to receive inlays/onlays or to receive dental veneers. Inlays/onlays are commonly made of porcelain and are very similar to dental fillings, except that they require two dental visits, as they are pre-molded before adhered to the teeth.

Inlays and onlays allow dentists to improve the appearance of the tooth by fixing discoloration, restoring the shape of the tooth, and providing a protective covering to discontinue further destruction of the tooth. Dental veneers are defined as porcelain laminates that are adhered to the teeth and improve their appearance and shape. Dental veneers are a great option for those that are interested in re-shaping and greatly improving the appearance of their smile.

Cosmetic dentistry allows patients to truly make over their smiles. For those that do not like the shape of their teeth or that wish their smile was whiter, cosmetic dentistry can make a huge difference in the appearance of their teeth. If you have ever wondered what cosmetic dentistry could do for you, the answer to that question could be that it could give you the opportunity to truly love your smile.