Cosmetic Dentistry can Involve a Range of Treatments

Thursday, 11 May 2023
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Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and gums. Cosmetic dentistry can involve a range of treatments, including teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, crowns, bridges, and braces. It can also include reshaping existing teeth and gums, as well as replacing missing teeth.

Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

The most important part in the process of improving aesthetics is to have a comprehensive consultation with your dentist. During this appointment you should advise your dentist what you’d like to improve about your teeth and what your concerns are. Photos and X-rays are usually taken at this time so that your dentist can plan what options are available to you.

Don’t be afraid to contact your dental office if you think of further questions after your consultation. It’s better to have a clear idea of what your goals are before starting treatment.

Tooth Whitening

Many of us want to have a lighter and brighter smile and doing some tooth whitening can be an effective and non-invasive way to achieve this.Tooth enamel varies in colour from person to person and the results will vary from person to person also. Enamel colour is classified into shades of yellow and grey and mixtures of both. The goal of whitening is to remove the yellow and grey hues from the enamel and brighten the teeth.

There are several different ways to effectively whiten your teeth. Ask what options would work best for you at your next appointment!

Orthodontics

Orthodontics doesn’t automatically translate to “braces”. There are several ways to align the teeth, including Invisalign, plates and braces. We value the skill and knowledge of specialist orthodontists, and we work closely with them to achieve a fantastic aesthetic result.

Gum Contouring

An overly “gummy smile” or having teeth that appear to be “too long” can have an impact on aesthetics. We work closely with specialist periodontists to achieve the best visual result.

Composite Veneers

Composite Veneers are sometimes called “bonding”, because this is a thin layer of composite filling material that is bonded to the outside of the teeth. This is used to repair and cover up cracks, chips, and other blemishes in teeth, giving a quick, cost-effective aesthetic result that will last a few years before needing to be replaced or removed.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a thin shell of porcelain that is custom made in a dental ceramic laboratory. Porcelain veneers take at least 2 appointments to complete, but they last longer, are more stain resistant than composite veneers and are stronger.

Crowns

Crowns are a long-term solution to protect and brace a damaged, cracked, or heavily filled tooth.
These are custom made for each tooth in a dental lab and can be made in almost any colour! Most people elect to match the colour of their next crown to the rest of their teeth so that it blends into their smile. Crowns take at least 2 appointments to complete.

Dentures

Dentures are artificial substitutes for missing natural teeth and adjacent soft tissues. They can be either a temporary or permanent tooth replacement option for people of all ages. They are typically made of acrylic resin (plastic) or a lightweight metal (mainly cobalt chrome) and are designed to look like your natural teeth.

Implants and Bridges

Implants and Bridges are options for prosthetic teeth that are placed in gaps between natural teeth. Bridges use the adjacent teeth to anchor the prosthetic tooth, and implants use jawbone to anchor the prosthetic tooth. These are great options to help restore the natural look and function of the teeth. Many people find that implants and bridges allow them to chew and speak properly again, while improving the look of their smile at the same time!

Cosmetic dentistry can help improve the appearance of your teeth and gums and can also help restore your ability to chew and speak properly. If you’re interested in improving the look of your smile, it’s important to consult with a trained dentist to discuss the best options for you. Please ask us at your next appointment if you’d like to learn more about cosmetic dentistry.