The alignment of your teeth has a big impact on your smile. For example, if you have missing, cracked, chipped, discolored, or missing teeth, it can be difficult to smile with people you meet. , that these dental defects can be resolved by a cosmetic dentist.
But what is cosmetic dentistry and how can it help? Here are the most important things to know about cosmetic dentistry.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the appearance and aesthetics of teeth. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the patient’s smile. However, while the primary purpose of most cosmetic dental procedures is to improve the appearance of teeth, it is important to note that some cosmetic dental procedures have medical/restorative benefits.
Some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures and solutions include:
- Teeth whitening aimed at addressing the problem of discolored teeth
- Tooth contouring that removes a small amount of enamel to improve tooth shape
- Tooth adhesion. A tooth-colored composite is applied to hide tooth imperfections such as tooth discoloration, cracks, and craze lines.
- A porcelain veneer also used to hide imperfections in some teeth
- Outline of gum used to address gummy smiles
- Dental implants to replace missing or damaged teeth
Advantages of cosmetic dentistry
The importance of cosmetic dentistry cannot be overemphasized. For example, these procedures help patients regain the ability to smile confidently. Some cosmetic dental solutions, such as porcelain veneers and dental bonding, can not only hide dental imperfections, but also protect patients’ teeth from damage.
In a nutshell, cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your smile, boosts your confidence, and optimizes your dental health.
The ideal candidate for cosmetic dentistry
Unfortunately, not everyone with defective teeth is eligible for cosmetic dental services. An ideal candidate for cosmetic dentistry services should:
- Keep your teeth healthy.If you have serious dental problems such as periodontal diseaseshould be treated before undergoing cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening.
- Non-smoker or willing to quit smoking. This is because smoking can interfere with healing, especially if surgery is required. Additionally, if you want to whiten your teeth, smoking can quickly reverse the positive results of the procedure.
- Have realistic expectations and accept that your results will be unique.
- A cosmetic dentist will thoroughly evaluate your eligibility for a particular dental procedure.
cost of cosmetic dentistry
cost of cosmetic dentistry It depends on the type of treatment and desired cosmetic dentistry clinic. However, it is important to note that most cosmetic dental procedures are considered medically unnecessary and should not be expected to be covered by medical insurance. Therefore, before deciding to undergo a particular cosmetic dental procedure, you should discuss the cost with your dentist so that you can budget accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
How long does a cosmetic dentistry procedure take?
This usually varies from procedure to procedure and case by case. Some steps are completed in one session, while others require several sessions. Similarly, some therapy sessions may take minutes to complete, while others may take hours. For example, a teeth whitening session lasts about an hour, while veneers can take up to 3 hours. Therefore, if you are too busy, you should consult your dentist to find out how much time you should dedicate to getting the procedure you are looking for.
How long does it take to recover after cosmetic dental treatment?
Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are non-invasive and require no downtime. This allows you to return to your normal daily routine as soon as you leave the dental office. Some procedures, such as tooth whitening and tooth contouring, can cause tooth sensitivity, but this side effect should go away within a few days. However, if gum contouring is desired, recovery can be expected to take approximately 3 days. This means that you should be prepared to spend a few days at home after surgery.
Are there any side effects to cosmetic dentistry?
No dental treatment is without potential side effects. However, the side effects of all cosmetic dentistry procedures vary on a case-by-case basis and from individual to individual. Generally, cosmetic dental treatments are accompanied by side effects such as tooth sensitivity, gum sensitivity, and inflammation. The good news is that in most cases these side effects are mild and temporary, so they shouldn’t prevent you from getting cosmetic dentistry treatments that can make your smile shine and boost your confidence.