subject: Cosmetic Dentistry: Various Modern Techniques [print this page] While the majority of traditional dentistry tends to focus primarily on the prevention and treatment of oral diseases, a cosmetic dentist specializes in the improvement of the appearance of patients teeth, smile, and mouth. Simplified, restorative and general practices address issues which require necessary treatments, whereas cosmetic practices deal with treatments that are more desired.
In addition, this field may also provide varying restorative benefits. For example, dental fillings are a procedure commonly associated with decayed tooth treatments. These fillings were composed of amalgam, gold and various other materials that left visible spots on the teeth.
Today, however, dental fillings can be made from porcelain and other materials which more accurately match the natural tooth color. With this advancement, many patients are opting to replace their older fillings with the newer, more aesthetically pleasing option.
Current Cosmetic Treatments Include:
Inlays/Onlays: Also referred to as indirect fillings, these are fillings made from composite materials and act as a way to treat decayed teeth without causing a huge change in appearance.
Composite Bonding: This method serves as a way to correct the appearance of chipped, broken, discolored, or decayed teeth. A composite material with the appearance of dentin and enamel is applied to the cavity or surface of the tooth where it is then molded into the desired shape. The result is a restoration that looks and feels just like the real thing.
Teeth Whitening: Perhaps the most common treatment in cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening effectively bleaches stained and yellowed teeth to enhance the appearance of the patients smile.
Veneers: Porcelain or composite laminates that are bonded to the surface of a tooth in order to correct cracks and chips, as well as improving the overall color shade. This treatment is typically recommended in cases where tooth gaps are apparent or where patients have not had a large success with teeth whitening.
Implants: Artificial tooth replacements that are used as part of prosthetic dentistry to help counter the effects of tooth loss.
Smile Makeover: Involve a comprehensive assessment of the patients smile esthetics to help improve the overall appearance. Typically, this treatment involves one or more of the aforementioned procedures to achieve the desired look.
Full Mouth Reconstruction: In some cases it may be recommended to undergo multiple corrective treatments to aid in the improvement of a patients smile. The reconstruction may address issues associated with the bite, muscles, teeth, and bone structure.
If you feel as though you're ready to look into your available options, be sure to schedule an appointment with a physician who has experience dealing with the type of specialty that interests you. Do your research and come prepared with a list of questions and concerns. In this way, your specialist will be able to best recommend a plan that will benefit you the most.
by: Andrew Stratton
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