Cosmetic dentistry is about so much more than just your teeth. A cosmetic dentist is an artist that takes into consideration many factors when rebuilding or changing a smile. Cosmetic procedures such as tooth whitening, resin composite bonding, dental veneers, dental bridges and crowns and tooth implants can all be elements of a smile makeover, but to the artist that is a skilled cosmetic dentist, more factors are at play.
After looking at your teeth, your cosmetic dentist will examine your skin tone, hair color and overall facial appearance to plan and execute your ideal smile. Teeth that are overly white look immediately unnatural and unappealing. Veneers that are too thick or have been poorly applied give teeth a “pillowy,” off-putting look. Each material your cosmetic dentist chooses must coordinate perfectly to give you the best smile possible for your particular aesthetic needs.
Gapped or missing teeth can cause your face to look misshapen and prematurely aged as your lips and cheeks lose fullness. Some facial shape issues can be rejuvenated and improved with orthodontics or oral surgery. Dental bridges or implants can provide an excellent solution to missing or gapped teeth.
Many subtle qualities of your teeth are important, such as tooth length. Because our teeth wear away over time, shorter teeth signal old age. Longer teeth that give your smile a more youthful appearance can be achieved by composite resin bonding or dental veneers. Smiles that are too “gummy” can be treated to adjust the gum line itself, which also gives an impression of lengthening the tooth.
In addition to the color and alignment of the teeth, their proportions are also extremely important. Your cosmetic dentist knows which proportions are the most flattering to your smile and are most appealing to those who see it.
A skilled cosmetic dentist is a trained artist of the teeth and will listen carefully to any concerns you have about your smile. These dentists will work with you to craft a plan to leave you with a lifelong smile that projects health and confidence to all who see it.
