Traditional dentistry focuses on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral problems. Cosmetic dentistry is meant to improve the look of teeth. It is filled with elective procedures that bring aesthetically pleasing results.
Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry:
With the new developments in dental technology, there are endless ways to improve the look of a smile. The latest tooth-colored materials make it possible to create a durable solution to all types of dental problems. Many times, lasers can be used to perform treatments so that a higher amount of tooth structure can be preserved, and recovery time is lessened.
Various Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
Some of the most common cosmetic dental services include:
- Composite Bonding. When a tooth becomes discolored or chipped, it is possible to repair the damage through composite bonding. A resin material is applied to correct the problem. Since the color can be perfectly matched to the shade of a person's tooth, the results are flawless.
- Inlays. An inlay, referred to as an indirect filling, is usually crafted from porcelain or a composite material and provides a replacement for tooth decay or structural damage. Unlike a conventional filling, an inlay is created in a laboratory and bonded into place.
- Veneers. Veneers are laminates that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to correct imperfections. They provide an improved appearance so that malformed or misaligned teeth can be transformed into a near-perfect smile.
- Teeth Whitening. Natural teeth commonly fall victim to staining from foods, beverages, and other bad habits. Bleaching or other teeth whitening techniques can be used to create a gleaming smile.
- Dental Implants. When a tooth has been extracted, it creates an obvious hole in the mouth. To fill this gap, a dental implant works as a permanent replacement. An implant is an artificial tooth molded specifically to fit into the mouth to enhance the smile.
- Invisalign. These devices are used to strengthen teeth, improve a bite, and correct jaw positioning. Besides the metal materials used in the past, today's technology provides other alternatives. Now, it is possible to use clear trays to solve these types of problems. Invisalign is a process that uses "invisible" plastic retainers to improve a smile.
- Full Mouth Restoration. When a person requires a full smile restoration, a dentist may recommend a total mouth reconstruction. This treatment includes changing the bite, bone, and muscles in the mouth. The end results are amazing and provide a lasting and natural look.