Cosmetic Dentistry Basics

The field of cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in recent years, due to medical advances and an increase in demand. Thanks to reality television programs like Extreme Makeover, cosmetic dentists and doctors have reaped success.

Although most dentists do some cosmetic procedures, some dentists deal exclusively in cosmetic treatments and surgery that restores weak, loose or broken teeth to improve appearance. It should come as no surprise that the practice of restoring teeth is touted as a means to restore self-confidence and achieve success.

Bleaching is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure. Bleaching erases stains on discolored teeth, darkened by too many cups of coffee or tea, too much red wine or too many cigarettes. One method used begins with the dentist taking an impression of the teeth. The impression model is filled with jelly-like hydrogen peroxide (bleach) and refitted to the teeth. A fluoride treatment is used to complete the procedure. The bleaching process is fairly risk-free, as long as it's not overdone, leaving teeth unnaturally white, and the bleach does not come in contact with the gums.

Bonding is a quick method used to repair teeth. Surfaces are cleaned and etched to insure adherence of the composite resin that is used to fill a chipped or decayed space. The filler bonds to the teeth and is stained to match the surrounding tooth color. The only risk is a slight chance of the resin bond coming lose in the future and being swallowed.

Porcelain veneers are a more comprehensive means to cover stains and chips while aligning tooth size and shape. Wafer-thin shells of porcelain are bonded to the surface of teeth in a process reminiscent of applying artificial nails. (In fact, artificial nails were invented by a dentist.) Again, there is a slight risk of veneers becoming dislodged and swallowed.

Porcelain dental crowns are similar treatments applied over areas where old dental work has come lose and in cases where cavity damage requires a more complete cover up. Like porcelain veneers, the tooth coverings are relatively risk-free.

Porcelain is also used to fill common cavities with a material that can be painted to match the surrounding tooth so that it blends in and is not noticeable. Porcelain can be applied to the tooth using laser methods that don't require tooth surface etching.

Dental implants are another cosmetic dentistry method used instead of denture treatments to replace one or two missing teeth. In this procedure, the cosmetic surgeon implants a titanium fixture into the jawbone and covers it with a porcelain crown. A benefit of this is that, unlike dentures, the titanium fixture fuses with the bone and grows into the jawbone. After a while, it becomes a more natural feeling dental replacement.

A good cosmetic dentist consults with patients to achieve professional yet personal makeovers. When choosing a cosmetic dentist, look for experience. The more a dentist has practiced cosmetic techniques, the better he or she will be at fixing problems. Interestingly, the natural artistic ability of the dentist plays an important role in his or her success. Look for the evidence in his or her patients!