Cosmetic dentistry makes it possible to improve the appearance of teeth, their positioning, and bringing back the sparkle of the smile. There are different procedures available to achieve this outcome.
Some dentistry procedures can be done within a short time while others will require several consultations with the dentist. The treatment plan depends on the problem being addressed, along with other factors like the dental health of the person, the presence of any other associated medical issues etc.
It is recommended that dental consultations be done at least twice a year, even if you don’t think there are any problems with your teeth. This will help to routinely check and address any dental problems that might crop up.
The main advantage of regular check-ups is the planning of proactive treatments to maintain oral health. Any minor issues can be corrected well in time with the least amount of money and time.
Teeth whitening
One of the easiest and most affordable cosmetic procedures that can bring your youthful look back is teeth whitening.
As you age, the changes can be seen in the teeth; they change colour, and lose their sparkle. This happens due to the dental enamel becoming thinner due to aging, normal wear and tear, medicines consumed, or other dental or medical issues affecting the appearance of the teeth.
A simple teeth whitening procedure done at the dental clinic can correct most of these issues. Though there are over the counter whitening products that can be purchased and used at home, the procedure is best done at the dental clinic for best results.
In this procedure, a bleaching agent is used to whiten and bring out the sparkle of the teeth. Some bleaching agents may cause irritation of the gum lining. If you’re doing this at the dental clinic, the amount of the bleaching agent can be controlled and any irritation can be soothed immediately. Hence it is recommended that the procedure be done under the supervision of a qualified dentist.
Dental Veneers
Restoring the appearance of the teeth, covering the imperfections of the tooth and bringing back the original sparkle in the teeth are all possible through dental veneers. These are custom made coverings that will cover the imperfections in the tooth.
Teeth that are chipped or broken, gaps between teeth, heavy staining that won’t go away – all these dental issues can be set right with veneers and the facial appearance can be enhanced.
There are different types of veneers that can be used according to personal preference. Some can be considered as near permanent structures in that they are fixed to the tooth, whereas there are others that can be removed.
During the dental consultation, your dentist will measure the teeth to make the dental veneer. After they are made, they are fixed to the surface of the tooth using a cement-like material. The colour of the dental veneer will also be the same as the natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell that you have done something to the teeth. The only result is that they cover all teeth imperfections and you get a great smile.
Teeth replacement
Another way through which appearance gets affected is by losing teeth. Teeth can be lost through accidents, trauma to the mouth, aging or any diseases.
When a person loses their teeth, they also lose confidence and are not able to continue with life as they used to, because they are embarrassed to speak or laugh.
Replacing teeth is possible through dentures or dental implants. Through these two processes, the lost teeth can be replaced. Your dentist will conduct an examination and decide which type of treatment is most suited and recommend it.
Dimensions of the tooth, its colour and shape are all taken into consideration when replacement teeth are made.
They can be permanent options like dental implants where the tooth is anchored to the jaw bone like natural teeth. In the case of dentures there are options available which are fixed or temporary ones that can be removed.
By fixing the gap in the mouth through teeth replacement, you can restore your appearance and confidence.
Correcting the alignment
One of the go-to cosmetic dental procedures that helps enhance the alignment of teeth, making them perfectly set is possible through Invisalign. This device can be understood as invisible braces that help to move the teeth to the correct position and remove any bite issues and related problems.
This procedure is sought after by adults who wish to correct the teeth alignment without the presence of metal braces or visible braces. During the consultation, the dentist will understand the position of the teeth through X-rays and 3D imaging. The actual position of the teeth and any underlying issues are checked.
Following this, a customized Invisalign is prepared for you. This appliance can be worn over the teeth and it is removable as well.
The device will slowly apply pressure on the teeth and correct the alignment of the teeth. Along with bite issues, jaw pain and headaches, speech issues are also corrected.
Contouring
For regaining a youthful appearance, another procedure that is possible through cosmetic dentistry is gum contouring.
The gum lining is different in different people – some have a high gum lining, while some have more teeth exposed with low gum lining. This feature greatly affects the appearance of the person. It is also seen that due to aging and also other dental issues like gum disease, the gum lining recedes.
Through gum contouring, the dentist will restructure the gum lining and alter its appearance. Depending on the nature of the issue, the gum contouring will involve cutting away excess gum lining or restructuring the gum lining so there are fewer teeth exposed. As this procedure involves surgical procedures, it is conducted under local anaesthesia and is often completed within two hours.
As you can see, there are many cosmetic dentistry procedures that you can opt for. Get in touch with your dentist to check which procedure is most appropriate for you.
