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What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Your Guide to Cosmetic Dental Procedures

What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Your Guide to Cosmetic Dental ProceduresPhoto by Jonathan Borba

Originally Posted On: What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Your Guide to Cosmetic Dental Procedures (eshomdds.com)

 

Did you know that the cosmetic dentistry industry is projected to be worth over $27 billion by 2028? More and more patients are opting in for procedures that will improve their smiles. Advances in dental technology have also made it easier for people to fix their teeth.

Although many cosmetic dental procedures aren’t covered by traditional insurance, they’re still a popular option. What is cosmetic dentistry? Read on to learn all about how you can achieve the smile of your dreams.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is an umbrella term for procedures that make your teeth look better. Sometimes cosmetic dental procedures stem from underlying problems with your teeth, like the need for crowns or veneers.

These types of procedures vary in price and invasiveness, depending on what your overall goal is for your teeth. The main goal of cosmetic dentistry is for you to feel satisfied with your smile and confident in your teeth.

Cosmetic vs Traditional Dentistry

When you think of a dentist, generally what comes to mind is someone who cleans your teeth, does fillings, and focuses on preventive care. This is known as traditional dentistry. The goal of traditional dentistry is to limit the need for dental work and preserve your natural teeth as much as possible.

A cosmetic dentistry practice will do everything that a general dentist does, but with an emphasis on the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentists often have procedures like orthodontia and dental implants available to their patients.

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

There are so many ways that you can enhance your smile through cosmetic dental procedures. Many patients even use a combination of treatment options to achieve their ultimate result. Here are some of the most common procedures that you can get from a cosmetic dentist.

Veneers

If you have cracked, discolored, or crooked teeth, then you should consider veneers as a solution. Veneers are a quick way to fix many different problems with your teeth in a short period of time.

Unlike crowns or dental implants, teeth do not have to be removed or shaved down in order to get veneers. They fit onto the outside of your tooth and act as an additional layer, rather than a replacement.

An added benefit of porcelain veneers is that they are resistant to staining. Once you get your veneers, they will stay pearly white and clean as long as you take care of them.

If you have crooked teeth, veneers can solve the problem without waiting months or years, like with braces. However, veneers will cost more than traditional braces or alignment trays.

Crowns

Crowns are a popular choice for dental restoration because they work best for damaged teeth. Usually, your dentist will require you to get a crown after a procedure like a root canal, to protect the tooth.

However, many people get crowns for purely aesthetic reasons. Since the crown is a tooth replacement, it can also solve problems like decay or crooked teeth.

Unlike veneers, crowns are sometimes covered by dental insurance providers if needed for good oral health. For example, a crown for severe decay or root canal treatment can help to reinforce and strengthen the tooth.

Crowns come in all different types of materials depending on your preference and what your dentist recommends. Porcelain is a reasonable choice for front teeth. However, for molars, you may need stronger material due to constant pressure from chewing.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures. It is usually cheaper than the other options but produces a fantastic result if you want your smile to shine.

When dentists do whitening procedures at the office, they often use bleach. The dentist will protect your gums from the solution and they may use a curing light to achieve quicker results.

Your dentist can even provide you with whitening trays that you can continue to use at home to maintain your look. That way, you can skip some visits to the office and still have good-looking teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a similar type of treatment to crowns. Rather than shaving the tooth down and using a cap, the tooth is removed completely and replaced with a screw.

When you get implants, there is a lower risk of tooth infection overall. This is because the entire tooth is removed, so you will not have to worry about tooth decay or damage.

Once teeth are taken out, there is usually a waiting period while your implants are made. This will also allow for swelling to go down and your gums to heal before your dentist places the implants.

Although they usually cost more, implants have a longer lifespan than other types of dental restoration. You may save a lot of money in the long run by investing in implants.

Unlike crowns, dental implants are not often covered by insurance companies. Therefore, if you opt for this cosmetic surgery, then you may have to pay for it out of pocket.

Orthodontic Treatment

If you have crooked or misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment may be the best option for you. Two of the most common treatment procedures are traditional braces and alignment trays, such as Invisalign.

Even though many orthodontic patients are children or teens, you can get your teeth fixed at any age. Braces can fix crooked teeth and also improve jaw health and other issues.

If you are self-conscious about metal braces, then you can get clear alignment trays. The treatment period varies and you simply have to get a new tray every month or so while your teeth shift.

Consider Cosmetic Dentistry for Your Dental Needs

You may still be wondering, what is cosmetic dentistry? If you think cosmetic dentistry may be right for you, then you should consider how you want to change your teeth.

Want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry options? Contact us today to get answers to all your questions or schedule a consultation.

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