Cosmetic dentistry is the name for any dental work that improves the aesthetic appearance (but not always the function) of a patient’s teeth, gum tissue, or bite alignment. While the American Dental Association does not currently recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty area of dentistry, both prosthodontists and orthodontists focus primarily on dental cosmetics and are skilled and knowledgeable about the cosmetic dentistry options available to their patients. While some improvement options are purely cosmetic, many of these treatments can improve other oral problems, such as the alignment of your bite.
Cosmetic dental procedures may include bonding, dental crowns, dental bridges, porcelain veneers and gum grafts, or the removal of the tooth structure or the gum tissue. It can also include teeth whitening and the depigmentation of the gum tissue. Braces are considered a cosmetic dental procedure, as they couple the straightening of the teeth with improvements to the aesthetic appearance of the face as a whole.
Your dentist can perform a variety of procedures to improve the look of your smile. Whitening can provide a simple yet dramatic change, while porcelain veneers can accomplish major repairs and reconstruction. Chipped or misshapen teeth can be improved with shaping or bonding. There are cosmetic solutions to worn or short teeth, as well as for missing or seriously decayed teeth.
Talk to your dentist to get answers to any questions you have about improving your smile and oral health. Depending on the condition of your natural teeth and the depth of the work you would like to have done, your dentist will give you the best advice to achieve your tooth goals. If you are considering a cosmetic dental procedure, you can ask three simple questions:
· What will my new smile look like?
· What can I expect before, during, and after the dental procedure?
· How will I best maintain my new smile?
Getting the answers to these three questions will enable you to move forward toward the best looking, healthiest options for your teeth and continued oral health. Don’t wait to have the smile of your dreams. Schedule your consultation with cosmetic dentist Dr. Salimy at his Newport Beach CA dental office today!
