You may have heard the term “cosmetic dentistry” used before- but what does it mean? After all, having white, healthy teeth goes way beyond aesthetics. Here’s a closer look at what this term truly refers to, and how cosmetic dentistry treatments can help give you the smile you’ve always wanted!
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the aesthetic branch of dentistry, which consists of treatments designed to improve the appearance of the smile. Although these procedures aren’t necessarily intended to make the teeth healthier, they will either maintain their current condition or could even improve it. Here’s a closer look at some of the cosmetic dentistry options your dentist offers, and how they can benefit your smile!
Veneers
Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are attached to the front facing surfaces of the teeth that are visible when you smile. They can instantly change their shape, size, spacing, and color, earning them the nickname “instant orthodontics.” Not only are veneers incredibly durable, but they resist staining, too, so with proper care you could enjoy your new look for up to 20 years!
Tooth-Colored Restorations
Not too long ago, if you had a cavity, broken tooth, or missing tooth, your restoration options were limited. Most fillings (as well as prosthetics like crowns and bridges) were made with amalgam or other types of metals including silver and gold. While these were durable and did a great job protecting the underlying tooth structure, because of their color they were very noticeable in the mouth. Thankfully, in recent years, materials like composite resin, porcelain, and zirconia have become increasingly popular for use in dentistry. Restorations made with these materials blend seamlessly into your smile, so it’s unlikely that anyone will notice them when you open your mouth to eat, speak, or smile. They are also durable, often offering just as much protection as their metal predecessors.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding uses the same composite resin dentists trust to create tooth-colored fillings to rebuild teeth with minor chips, uneven edges, that are ‘too small,’ and even those with deep stains or discoloration. Because of its innate strength, composite resin can withstand the forces of chewing a full diet, and you can care for your repaired teeth the same way you would any other teeth. While these repairs generally only last for up to five years, this treatment is among the fastest, most versatile, and most affordable cosmetic dentistry options available.
Teeth Whitening
Each year, over 7 billion dollars are spent on whitening products here in the United States, often with little to no results to show for it. Professional whitening from your dentist is different. Using only the highest quality ingredients, a Zoom procedure can remove up to eight shades of stains and discoloration in about one hour, while a customized take-home kit from Ultradent can achieve similar results in around two weeks! While the results are considered permanent, your teeth can become re-stained, so it’s important to be committed to caring for them by maintaining your oral hygiene and avoiding foods and beverages with dark pigments like coffee, cola, and red wine. Then, if you need an occasional touch-up, your dentist will be happy to help!
Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover is a custom package designed by you and your dentist to get you the gorgeous grin you’ve been dreaming of. If your newly improved teeth require more than one cosmetic treatment, a smile makeover can ensure that they’re done in the appropriate sequence and performed within your desired timeline and budget. Because every patient is different, your makeover can include as few or as many procedures as you’d like – the sky’s the limit!
Remember, cosmetic dentistry is the branch of oral healthcare designed to improve the appearance of your teeth. To undergo any treatment, your mouth should be in good health first. While your cosmetic dentistry procedure might not always offer many oral health benefits, it will never harm your smile, and it can do wonders to improve your self-esteem and confidence. To learn more about your options, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Gammenthaler
Dr. Douglas Gammenthaler earned his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Southern Adventist University, and his dental doctorate from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. He is a proud, active member of both the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. To schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry at Family Dental Care of Rogers, visit our website or call 479-888-5362.