Cosmetic dentistry is a true lifesaver. Most people tend to mistake the cosmetic dentistry as being something artificial. Not only is the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile improved through cosmetic dentistry, but also their functioning. There are many different types of cosmetic dentistry procedures that you need to know about. This post takes a close look at these procedures so that you can decide which procedure to consider.
Although it might seem that cosmetic dentistry procedures are somewhat elective, they can be essential in certain cases such as where restorative benefits are involved. The most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures are those that are rather simple. Let’s take a look at the different procedures.
Inlays and Onlays
One of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures that you need to know more about is inlays and onlays. They are also referred to as indirect fillings. These fillings are made at the dental laboratory. If your teeth experience moderate to mild decay or there is not much tooth structure left to provide support for a filling, your best option is inlays and onlays.
To perform the procedure, the tooth cusps should not be damaged. Inlays are placed directly onto your tooth structure. However, if a significant portion of the teeth or the cusp is damaged, you would need to get onlays for covering the entire surface of your teeth. Composite resin material is used for making inlays and onlays. Once they are made, they are attached to your teeth using some adhesive dental cement. When you get inlays and onlays, they help provide support to your teeth and restore their original shape while ensuring that the teeth do not suffer from any further deterioration or decay.
Composite Bonding
Another cosmetic dentistry procedure that you should be aware of is composite bonding. The procedure helps repair discoloured, damaged, or decayed teeth. It uses material which resembles the colour of your tooth enamel. First, the dentist drills out the decayed area and uses the composite on the surface of the tooth. Then, high-intensity light is used to cure it to the right shape. The procedure is also known as just bonding. Thus, if your teeth are damaged, you can undergo bonding to restore the appearance of your teeth. One of the reasons why the procedure is so popular is because it is the least expensive.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are made of medical-grade ceramic. They are individually made for every patient to ensure that they resemble their natural teeth. This is why dental veneers tend to look very real and it can be difficult for others to even tell if you are wearing them. The best thing about this cosmetic dentistry procedure is that it resolves a variety of cosmetic problems such as noticeable gaps, damaged enamel, cracked teeth, and crooked teeth. A dental adhesive is used by the dentist when applying the veneer to the front of your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
The majority of people who undergo a cosmetic dentistry procedure tend to go for teeth whitening. Besides, most people think that cosmetic dentistry is restricted to just teeth whitening. There is a lot more to cosmetic dentistry. However, teeth whitening treatment is the most popular procedure.
Also known as teeth bleaching, the process occurs after tartar, plaque, and other debris has been removed from the mouth. Thus, undergoing the procedure allows you to restore the former glory of your teeth. You can achieve a much lighter shade by choosing the procedure. As Dentist Fairbanks AK puts it elegantly: Teeth whitening services remove stains and restore that pearly white smile.
Over time, teeth are likely to become stained. They also wear out from personal habits, medications, drinks, and food. Hence, you would need to undergo teeth whitening to ensure that your teeth look their absolute best. The dentist would also recommend you to use advanced whitening toothpaste during the period to further whiten the teeth to achieve the desired shade.
Implants
Finally, implants are another cosmetic dentistry procedure that helps restore your smile. Dental implants are used for replacing teeth that have been lost due to an accident or any other reason. A small titanium screw is inserted by the dentist into your jaw to provide support for the crown. A great thing about dental implants is that they are almost indistinguishable from surrounding teeth.
Conclusion
If you plan to undergo any of the cosmetic dentistry procedures mentioned above, it is important that you meet with a cosmetic dentist to consider your options. It will help ensure that you undergo the right procedure.