Cosmetic dentistry is one of the areas in the constantly evolving field of oral care and aesthetics that has registered remarkable advancements. This area of dentistry plays an essential role in improving people’s smiles and overall oral health.
At The Hawthorne Dentist, we pride ourselves on offering cosmetic dentistry treatment to our patients. We offer a wide range of procedures, all at affordable prices. When you visit us, we will assess your dental problem and recommend the ideal procedure. We tailor our treatments to fit our patients’ needs, budgets, and preferences. Call us today for a comprehensive consultation.
Cosmetic Dentistry Overview
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the aesthetics of the gums, teeth, and overall smile. Traditional dentistry primarily focuses on oral hygiene and diagnosing, treating, and preventing dental-related diseases. Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on improving a smile’s visual appeal. A cosmetic dentist is a professional specializing in cosmetic dentistry. They can whiten, straighten, or improve the teeth’s shape. They could also repair chipped teeth and replace missing teeth.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Cosmetic dentistry comprises many procedures designed to improve teeth’s appearance. Not all of these procedures work for everybody. Your dental professional can assist you in determining what procedure will work perfectly to enhance your smile. Commonly performed cosmetic dental procedures include the following:
Dental Composite Bonding
Tooth bonding is a prevalent cosmetic dentistry procedure. It entails cementing a tooth-colored resin material to the tooth and shaping it to enhance its appearance. The procedure usually repairs cracked, badly stained, or chipped teeth, improves the teeth’s shape, and closes gaps in teeth. The bonding process is relatively fast; the dentist can usually complete it in one dental visit.
Dental composite material resembles dentin and enamel’s look. A dental professional applies this material to the tooth’s surface, sculpts it into shape, contours it, and then hardens it using high-intensity lighting. Bonding provides a dental restoration that blends perfectly with the original teeth. Bonding complements the original teeth and assists in creating a bright, healthy smile.
While conducting the bonding procedure, the dentist must remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth. They will then prepare a composite resin material matching your natural teeth’s color and apply it to the tooth surface. Then, they will shape the material until the imperfection is covered. After that, they will polish the material to achieve a more natural look.
The tooth bonding procedure assists in covering the damage to the tooth, making it healthier. Bonding is among the least costly cosmetic procedures if you have decayed, chipped, or cracked teeth. It is an excellent alternative to amalgam or silver fillings. The process also requires very minimal tooth preparation. Thus, it can be a quick and affordable way of repairing small tooth flaws.
Composite bonding has a few disadvantages. Even though it is durable, it is less resilient than other options, such as dental crowns or veneers. The composite bonding material might be more susceptible to staining or chipping with time, and its lifespan generally ranges from five to ten years. Composite bonding might also require routine touch-ups and maintenance. With time, the bonding material can discolor or wear down, meaning you might have to go to the dentist for replacement and repairs of the bonding material.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are another prevalent cosmetic dental treatment. These are customized thin shells made from composite resin or porcelain materials. They are designed to be cemented above the teeth’s front surface. Veneers can correct many tooth imperfections, including cracks, gaps, chips, crooks, discoloration, and unevenly shaped or sized teeth. They are a flexible solution to transform a person’s smile dramatically.
Dental veneers’ lifespan varies from individual to individual, but most last approximately twenty years. Based on the materials from which these restorations are made, there are various types of veneers, and the placement procedure for every type is quite different.
- Composite resin veneers: The dentist can place these veneers in a single visit. They will not often have to scrape off much of the enamel before cementing them. The dentist first cleans and prepares the teeth, then applies a composite resin material matching the color of your other teeth. They will then harden the material using a light source and polish it to resemble the other teeth.
- Porcelain veneers: Dental porcelain veneers are fitted or applied at two visits to the dentist. To prevent the dental restoration from being so bulky, your dental professional will scrape off some enamel from the tooth’s front surface. They will then obtain impressions of your teeth and take them to a lab to customize the veneers. At your next appointment, your dental professional will clean the teeth and cement the veneers onto them using dental cement.
Depending on the size of the veneers and your sensitivity, the dentist may administer a local anesthetic during the veneer placement procedure.
Dental veneers come with different advantages. One of these is that, compared to other dental restorations, veneers do not need the removal of the natural teeth. Rather, the dentist will only remove a small amount of enamel from a tooth’s front surface for a perfect grip.
Veneers match the color of the teeth they cover. They are an ideal dental option for treating aesthetic dental problems, as they do not easily discolor. Another advantage is that veneers feel and appear natural. When the dentist completes the placement procedure, they polish them to make them fit flawlessly. Only you and your dental professional will know you have them since they will feel and appear completely natural.
Dental veneers have cons, too. One problem with these dental restorations is that they sometimes crack and chip. Carelessly biting on hard items can damage the veneers, shortening their lifespan. The veneer placement process is also irreversible.
Once the dentist removes the thin enamel layer, it will not grow back, meaning you cannot remove the veneers. Removing the tooth enamel can increase sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. Veneers also have a shorter lifespan than dental crowns and bridges. That does not make these restorations a bad option. However, it is a factor you want to consider if you wish to go for veneers.
Teeth Whitening
Among the most common cosmetic treatment procedures is teeth whitening or teeth bleaching. As time passes, teeth may become discolored or stained because of different factors like smoking, aging, or consuming particular drinks and foods. Teeth whitening procedures utilize bleaching agents to eliminate stains and achieve a whiter, brighter smile. The process can occur at home or in the dentist’s office utilizing whitening products. Not everybody’s teeth can undergo whitening or bleaching. Thus, it is critical to consult with your dental professional before attempting at-home teeth-whitening products.
Generally, teeth-bleaching products contain hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Whitening or bleaching products made for at-home use often have smaller amounts of these components. The teeth-whitening procedure is as follows:
If you need professional teeth whitening, you must visit your dentist. Once you go to a dental clinic, the dentist smear whitening gel on your teeth. They may also use a solution of concentrated hydrogen peroxide and water. Some dental professionals also utilize light to raise the whitening product’s speed and efficacy. The procedure might take between thirty and sixty minutes.
If you wish to do teeth whitening at home, apply whitening strips to your teeth for a particular period over weeks or days. The frequency of applying the strips and the period to leave them on vary by product. You can also obtain whitening gels over the counter. You can paint the gels onto your teeth or apply them using a unique tray. Go for ADA (American Dental Association)-approved whitening products.
Teeth-whitening toothpastes are also available. These toothpastes contain abrasive components that assist in removing surface stains. A few whitening toothpastes additionally contain quantities of peroxide.
Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic dental procedures. With bleaching or whitening, you could obtain quick, life-altering results at an extraordinarily lower cost than almost all other cosmetic procedures. Also, with appropriate aftercare, professional whitening results can last several years. That is because professional whitening products have a high concentration of bleaching agents that realize effective results. The treatment procedure is also quick. A general professional teeth-whitening procedure can last between 30 and 60 minutes, but some treatments can be completed in only one brief visit.
A drawback of teeth-whitening is increased tooth sensitivity. This can happen if you have weak enamel or the dentist does not administer the procedure properly. Dentists usually recommend particular treatments before whitening, if needed, to minimize the risk of sensitivity. If, for example, you have dental cavities, your dentist might recommend you receive fillings before the whitening process.
Another con of teeth whitening is that it can cause gum irritation. Professional whitening entails isolating the gums from the teeth with a dental dam. This substantially minimizes the likelihood of gum irritation. However, gum irritation may arise if the dentist does not correctly isolate the gum or you do not properly apply the store-bought or take-home kit. Most patients will not have gum irritation if they undergo professional whitening.
Cosmetic Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are customized to fit over the whole tooth. These are often made from porcelain or acrylic fused to metal to resist biting pressure. Dental crowns may be used cosmetically to treat badly decayed, poorly shaped, chipped, or broken teeth or teeth that have undergone large fillings. The dentist can also recommend them for covering spaces between teeth.
Dental crowns come in various types, each with different benefits and drawbacks. Composite and ceramic are the most popular materials used to make crowns.
- Composite crowns: These are made from synthetic resin. The dental lab can make composite crowns to resemble a person’s natural teeth. Composite crowns are not as durable as other dental crowns.
- Ceramic crowns: These can mirror the teeth’s original color and look. They are ideal for people who experience metal allergies. They also chip less compared to other forms of crowns, though they additionally wear down with time.
Other kinds of crowns include:
- Metal crowns: These are made from metal alloys like gold or silver. They are more robust than porcelain, making them the best choice for individuals who grind their teeth or for replacing molars and premolars. They are also resistant to chipping and cracking. One drawback of these dental restorations is their look. Some people could also experience allergic reactions when they have them on.
- Porcelain dental crowns are stain-resistant, durable, and look like natural teeth. Additionally, the likelihood of tooth sensitivity is lower with porcelain crowns. On the downside, these dental restorations are more likely to crack or chip than other forms of crowns.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: These dental restorations are a blend of metal and porcelain. They have a metal base and are covered with a layer of porcelain. These are more long-lasting than porcelain dental crowns, and their appearance is more natural than metal crowns. Nevertheless, they appear less natural than porcelain crowns, and with time, they could form a dark line around the gums. Like metal crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns can result in tooth sensitivity.
A dental professional usually places crowns over two appointments. At the first appointment, the dentist prepares the tooth by scraping off a small amount of the enamel. Usually, they administer a local anesthetic before the preparation. Then, the dental professional takes impressions of your teeth so the dental lab can match the crown to your remaining teeth and ensure a perfect fit.
The dentist will ask you to put on a temporary dental crown while the lab customizes the permanent one. At your second visit, the dentist will install the crown using a strong dental adhesive and adjust the color and shape if necessary.
Cosmetic Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal appliances used for the permanent replacement of missing teeth. They are often made from titanium. The dentist installs these into the jawbone where teeth are missing through a surgical procedure. Dental implants act as tooth roots. They can anchor human-made teeth like dentures or a dental bridge. There are two types of dental implants. These are:
- Subperiosteal implants: The dentist places these underneath the gum tissue above the jawbone. They usually replace multiple missing teeth.
- Endosteal implants: The dentist places these implants into the jawbone through surgery
Placing dental implants is an invasive process. Therefore, patients receive a local anesthetic along with sedation during the process. The dental implant process involves a few steps. First, you must undergo a detailed consultation with your dental profession. The professional will assess your dental health and discuss the likelihood of an implant. They will utilize 3D scans and X-rays to assess bone structure for a successful placement.
After the consultation, the dentist will develop a unique treatment plan based on the assessment’s outcome. The plan will outline how many implants you need and where they will go. It will also outline the necessary preparatory work, like tooth extraction or bone grafting.
The dentist will then administer local anesthesia for a comfortable and pain-free experience. In some cases, they may administer sedation. The dentist’s choice depends on your preferences and the complexity of your case. If the tooth is decayed or damaged, extraction might be necessary before installing the dental implant. This essential step ensures a healthy and clean foundation for the implant.
The dentist will then incise the gum to uncover the jawbone and drill a hole to place the dental implant. After drilling the hole, they will place the implant into the jawbone, and the osseointegration process will start. During this process, the implant integrates with the adjacent bone. After the placement, the healing period is essential to complete osseointegration, which generally takes a few months.
Dental implants have several advantages. Teeth are anchored in place by their roots and adjacent teeth. Consequently, should you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth might begin tilting towards the remaining gap and loosen. The ideal way of not losing more teeth is to fill the gap with another tooth, and a dental implant may be the ideal option as it looks and feels like the original teeth. Dental implants prevent jaw deterioration, improve speech, and prevent cavities, among other benefits.
Among the drawbacks of dental implants is that the placement procedure is surgical and requires a healing period. Dental implants may also be more costly than other types of procedures. There may also be a mechanical failure of implant components, and the implant may fracture the dental crown.
Tooth Contouring
Tooth contouring is also called shaping or enamel shaping. The dentist can perform this procedure to correct minor problems such as chipping or fix slightly overlapping teeth. The dental professional will reshape the tooth by removing or filing away part of its enamel. After that, they polish the tooth to smooth out any uneven or rough spots and give it a more natural look. Usually, tooth contouring is not painful and produces instant results.
Caring for and Maintaining Cosmetic Dental Work
After a cosmetic dental procedure, caring for and maintaining your new smile is essential. Proper oral hygiene practices are crucial for the durability of your dental work. These include flossing daily, brushing twice daily, and regular dental cleanings and checkups.
It is essential to avoid any habit that could damage your teeth, like using them as tools or biting on hard objects. Also, adjust your diet to safeguard your new smile. Restricting your consumption of staining drinks and foods can preserve your teeth’s color. Examples of staining drinks include red wine, tea, and coffee.
Cosmetic Dentistry Cost
Cosmetic dentistry costs vary depending on the specific treatment and procedures involved. For example, teeth whitening is generally more affordable than intricate procedures like veneers. You want to discuss the treatment cost during your initial consultation with your cosmetic dental professional.
Most dental insurance does not cover cosmetic dental procedures. However, there are some exceptions. These include whether you are undergoing a cosmetic procedure for restorative or elective reasons. Elective procedures involve dental work that is not necessary for medical purposes. Examples of these are teeth whitening and veneers. Restorative procedures are necessary for medical purposes. Examples may include dental implants and crowns.
Cosmetic dentistry might necessitate a financial investment. However, you want to weigh it against the possible long-term value and benefits. Enhanced oral health and a confident smile can affect different aspects of your life. These include your professional and personal relationships. Most dental clinics offer financing options. These options assist in making cosmetic procedures more accessible and affordable.
Common Reasons for Undergoing Cosmetic Dental Procedure
You can undergo a cosmetic dental procedure for different reasons, including to do the following:
- Complete smile makeovers. Some people choose to undergo a detailed smile makeover. It involves merging multiple procedures to realize their desired look.
- Reshape gums. Gum contouring corrects excessive fun tissues, making teeth appear more proportional and longer.
- Align crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatments like braces and clear aligners can straighten misaligned teeth. Teeth straightening can achieve a more attractive smile.
- Replace missing teeth. Dental bridges and implants can replace missing teeth, enhancing aesthetics and function.
- Repair damaged teeth. Treatments like dental veneers and bonding can repair worn, cracked, or chipped teeth and help restore the teeth’s natural look.
- Improve teeth color. Teeth whitening is one of the most prevalent cosmetic dental procedures. It can remove discoloration and stains, leaving teeth brighter.
Find a Professional Cosmetic Dentist Near Me
Cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve, providing several options to improve people’s smiles. Whether you wish to whiten your teeth, replace the missing ones, or correct imperfections, you will find a cosmetic dental treatment tailored to your needs. We at The Hawthorne Dentist offer a wide range of cosmetic dental procedures. We will assess your dental issues, goals, and budget before recommending the ideal procedure that suits your needs. If you are ready to transform your smile, call us at 310-775-2557 for a consultation.
