|
Cosmetic Dentistry is a specific discipline of dentistry that focuses on enhancing or improving your smile. Cosmetic Dentistry utilizes all methods of dentistry to create a desired smile or re-create a look that the patient once had. (back to top)
The procedures utilized are not taught in most dental schools. Therefore it is imperative for a dentist to take many advanced postgraduate courses as specialty training in Cosmetic Dentistry. (back to top)
Those dentists who have taken sufficient training are allowed to submit themselves for accreditation by the American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry (ABAD) and the American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA). Both organizations require applicants to satisfy requirements showing their ability and clinical expertise in Cosmetic Dentistry.
The American Society for Dental Aesthetics is an exceptional resource to find world-class aesthetic dentists nationwide and internationally. For a complete list of these specialists in your area, visit www.asdatoday.com on the web and click on "Search ASDA Dentists By Location."
(back to top)
Bleaching is the same thing as tooth-whitening. The terms are used interchangeably. There are two ways to accomplish tooth whitening. One is with a take-home system using trays and gel. In the comfort of your own home and either while you sleep or for a few hours a day or in the evening, you can have a brighter whiter smile in just a few weeks. The second way to a brighter, whiter smile is with in-office tooth whitening. (back to top)
There are several ways in which this can be corrected. Your options are bonding, porcelain laminates or orthodontics. (back to top)
Orthodontics is often the best way for children and young adults to correct crooked teeth. For adults, using bonding, porcelain laminates, or crowns can often correct a crooked smile in two visits or less.
(back to top)
Bonding is the applying of tooth colored material. It is usually done in one visit. It tends to discolor over time and is not as durable as porcelain laminates/veneers. Porcelain laminates/veneers are thin custom made pieces of porcelain that are bonded to your teeth. Laminates cover stains well, maintain their color over time, and are more durable than bonding. When applied to your teeth, they are extremely strong. This process usually takes two visits. (back to top)
They look artificial and don't match my other teeth. What can I do? Crowns are also called "caps." If yours don't look natural, you should visit a skilled cosmetic dentist who will match the color and shape of the teeth nearby. Your smile can look natural and lifelike even with one or more crowns. (back to top)
In many cases, gums can be sculpted and reshaped. A great looking, healthy smile should be framed by healthy well shaped gums just like a beautiful work of art should have a wonderful frame. (back to top)
Dentures (whether full or partial) can be created to fit well and reshape your face. A skilled cosmetic dentist can custom make a denture that allows you comfort in chewing and a beautiful, natural-looking smile. In some cases, it can almost be like a face-lift. (back to top)
You have several treatment choices if you'd like to correct crowded or misaligned teeth. These choices include:
Recontouring
Recontouring is used in cases of mildly crooked teeth and involves reshaping and contouring your teeth with the dental handpiece.
Braces
Braces are often the ideal way to straighten teeth, especially in severe crowding cases. However, you must be willing to wear braces for about two to three years. Orthodontia (braces) is now a very common procedure for adults; in fact, 40 percent of orthodontic treatments are for adults. And braces are now available with small, clear brackets that are bonded directly to the front of the teeth. These eliminate that "metal mouth" look commonly associated with having braces.
Bonding
Bonding is a procedure for applying a plastic material (resin) to existing tooth structure. The term bonding generally refers to a single-appointment procedure where resin is applied to front teeth to change their cosmetic appearance. Bonding is an effective aesthetic technique, and the result generally lasts about as long as veneers. But since it is technically more difficult, it is less commonly offered by dentists.
Crowns
Crowns (also called caps) cover the entire portion of the tooth above the gum line and are most appropriate when teeth have been significantly damaged or altered, as they are with fillings, broken teeth, or large cavities.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are most commonly bonded to the fronts and tops of the teeth. Applying veneers is one of the most effective and common methods for creating cosmetic changes.
(back to top)
|
