Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized field that mostly focuses on improving the look and function of your teeth. It encompasses many procedures, from tooth whitening to full-mouth reconstruction. Though it’s often thought of as a purely cosmetic procedure, there are many benefits to having cosmetic dentistry done for your oral health.
This blog post will discuss these and how cosmetic dentistry differs from general dentistry.
Cosmetic Dentistry Vs. general Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry are two distinct branches of dental care. While general dentists focus on preventative care and routine treatments to keep your teeth healthy, cosmetic dentists specialize in enhancing the look of teeth through restorative and elective procedures.
General dentists provide services like:
- Cleaning
- Fillings
- Extractions
- X-rays
- Root canals
The main difference between cosmetic and general dentistry is that the former focuses solely on improving the appearance of a patient’s smile. At the same time, the latter works to maintain overall oral health. Regardless of which type of dentist you visit for treatment, be sure they’re experienced. Check their website for reviews and testimonials to know the quality of their care.
What Are the Procedures Involved in Cosmetic Dentistry
Below are the most common types of cosmetic dentistry procedures:
- Teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is among the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves bleaching your teeth to a desired shade of white and can be done either in a dentist’s office or at home with a kit purchased from your local pharmacy. The procedure works by oxidizing molecules on the enamel surface, lightening its color over time. Depending on the type of whitener used, results may take several days to several weeks to become visible.
- Veneers. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain bonded to the teeth’s front surfaces to improve their appearance. They can correct issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps between teeth, and oddly shaped teeth. Veneers are also highly stain-resistant and can last for decades with proper care.
- Dental implants. Dental implants are a long-lasting treatment for missing teeth. They look and function like natural teeth. A titanium post is surgically implanted in the jawbone, then a crown made of porcelain or other material is placed on top of the post to act as an artificial tooth root. The implant will eventually fuse with the surrounding bone tissue over time, providing long-term stability for the replacement tooth or teeth. Visit https://essenmacherdental.com/dental-implants/ to learn more about dental implants.
- Bonding. Bonding is a procedure used to repair cavities and chipped teeth. During the process, a tooth-colored composite material is placed on the affected area and hardened with ultraviolet light. The material will then be shaped to match your natural tooth shape, providing a seamless appearance.
- Inlays and Onlays. Inlays and onlays are two types of fillings used to restore damaged teeth. An inlay is a filling placed inside your tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps (the pointed edges of the teeth) and part of the chewing surface. Both procedures can be completed quickly and help enhance the strength and appearance of your teeth.
Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry to Your Oral Health
The following are some of the ways how cosmetic dentistry can help improve your oral health:
- Reduces the risk of gum disease. Gum disease can occur when plaque accumulates on the teeth and gums, causing inflammation and other serious oral health issues. Because cosmetic dentistry can help improve your bite alignment, it can reduce the risk of gum disease by allowing for easier brushing and flossing.
- It helps preserve your jawbone. Because it can help restore your bite alignment, cosmetic dentistry can also help preserve your jawbone. Restoring the shape of your teeth will allow them to properly engage with each other and evenly distribute the pressure, helping keep your jawbone strong and healthy.
- It improves your bite. By correcting the shape and size of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can restore your bite alignment and help you chew and speak properly. This can also lead to improved self-confidence and a more natural smile.
- It prevents decay and infection. When teeth are misaligned, bacteria can easily find their way into the crevices and cause decay or infection. Correcting this problem with cosmetic dentistry can help lessen your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
In Conclusion
Cosmetic dentistry can significantly impact your oral health. Whether you want to whiten your teeth, repair damage, or improve your smile’s appearance, cosmetic dentistry can help provide the desired results. Be sure to speak with a qualified dentist before cosmetic dental procedures.
