Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is a method of professional oral care that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth. And although cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective rather than essential, some treatment cases also provide restorative benefits. Learn about the most common procedures and how they work.
Inlays and Onlays
his cosmetic dentistry procedure is also known as indirect fillings, which are made by a dental laboratory. They are used when a tooth has mild to moderate decay or insufficient tooth structure to support a filling. Provided there is no damage to the tooth cusps, the inlay is placed directly onto the tooth surface.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding refers to the repair of decayed, damaged, or discolored teeth using material that resembles tooth enamel color. Your dentist drills out the tooth decay then applies the composite onto the tooth’s surface, and then “sculpts” it into the right shape before curing it with a high-intensity light.
Dental Veneers
Typically manufactured from medical-grade ceramic, dental veneers are custom-made caps that go over your natural teeth. They look exceptionally realistic and can resolve numerous cosmetic problems, ranging from crooked teeth to cracked or damaged enamel to noticeable gaps between two teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. It can be performed at your dentist’s office, often in a single visit. The dental hygienist will first remove plaque, tartar, and other debris from each tooth’s surface, restoring its natural appearance. The teeth can then be whitened with a bleaching agent to achieve an even lighter shade than this original color.
Implants
Dental implants are used to replace lost or damaged teeth. The dentist inserts a small titanium screw into the jaw at the site of the missing tooth, which serves as the support for a crown. These implants are almost indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth. Once the bone and supporting tissue fuse to the implant, they are permanently secured into place.