While restorative dentistry is necessary to repair damage and maintain good dental health, cosmetic dentistry mainly focuses on improving the appearance the teeth mouth and gums. Does that mean cosmetic procedures are not important? Absolutely not. In fact, studies have shown that a person's smile plays a major part in developing relationships. Potential friends, romantic interests, employers and teachers are often influenced by an aesthetically pleasing smile. People who are proud of their smiles naturally appear more confident and approachable. In certain cases, cosmetic dentistry is done as part of restorative treatment. It is common for broken down silver fillings to be removed and replaced with more desired tooth colored materials. Examples of cosmetic procedures include whitening, veneers, bonding, bridges and implants. Each one can be done alone or in combination for a customized result.
WHITENING
Teeth whitening is perhaps the most commonly recommended cosmetic dentistry procedure. Teeth are often stained from smoking, food, drink (coffee, tea or red wine) or poor oral hygiene. We offer several choices whitening to fit many goals and budgets.
VENEERS & BONDING
Veneers are composite or porcelain laminates that are adhesively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct and repair chips and cracks, improve aworn appearance, or cover severe tooth discoloration. Veneers are also used to change shape and size of malformed teeth and close gaps. Many celebrities have veneers across their entire smile.
Chipped, broken, discolored or decayed teeth may be restored or improved with bonding. A plastic resin material that blends invisibly with surrounding enamel is used to create the desired effect. Bonding works well for emergencies because it can be done in office, It also works well for younger patients not ready for permanent veneers or crowns.
IMPLANTS & BRIDGES
Dental implants are artificial root replacements that are used as a part of prosthetic (artificial) dentistry in order to compensate for tooth loss. Often the result is not only an enhanced smile, but also a more youthful appearance, since missing teeth cause the face to collapse, making you look older. Implants are actually screwed to the bone beneath the socket. A porcelain crown made by the lab id designed to attach permanently to the implant.
Bridges are another type of prosthetic, and can replace one or more teeth. A bridge is attached to neighboring teeth using cement or clasps. Bridges may need replacing over time.