Basic dentistry focuses on dental health with the emphasis on preventive maintenance. A cosmetic dentist concerns himself more with the appearance of the teeth and the smile. There are some family practitioners who practice limited cosmetic procedures, but there are also dentists whose entire practice is devoted to improving their patients’ looks. Regardless of the procedures chosen, patients should be aware that advances in anesthesia and equipment have made all of them virtually painless.
The most procedure most requested of cosmetic dentists is tooth whitening. A bleach solution, applied to the surfaces of the teeth, leaves them whiter and brighter. Many stains, such as those caused by smoking, wine, coffee, or certain food dyes, can often be removed in this manner.
People whose teeth are unevenly spaced, crooked, or discolored beyond the abilities of bleaching often opt for veneers. These are crafted from composites or porcelain to look like teeth. However, they are a very thin layer of material and are glued onto existing teeth. Veneers can be used to cover the entire smile or just one or two teeth.
Composite bonding is sometimes used to repair cavities or broken teeth. The dentist applies the material to the cavity or to form a tooth. The material is then hardened by use of a special light. The ability to match the color of neighboring teeth and to sculpt a realistic looking tooth makes these repairs virtually invisible.
For patients who are missing one or more teeth, implants are often used as replacements. In addition to cosmetics, they can serve to anchor bridges or dentures. An implant is sometimes called a crown and post. Typically, a post is anchored to the bone underneath the gum and a lab-made tooth is glued onto the post. Some implants, however, can be made as one piece.
Many cosmetic dentists take pride in their ability to create dentures that appear very natural. If there are still healthy teeth remaining, they can make dentures that will fit over them, eliminating extraction. The dentist can insert posts to serve as anchors for the dentures, offering the patient greater flexibility in speaking, eating, and smiling by eliminating slippage.
For teeth that are broken or severely decayed, indirect fillings may be used. These are made in a dental lab from either composite or porcelain so that they offer a precision fit. They may be used as inserts or as overlays and are glued securely to the tooth in the dentist’s office.
Cosmetic dentists also offer a full mouth makeover. This involves any or all of the tools in his arsenal to make the smile as perfect as is possible. It may begin with whitening, the application of veneers, and the placement of any implants needed. If there are underlying issues with the bite or muscle structure, the dentist will address those as well.
Not all dental insurance will pay for cosmetic dentistry unless it is needed because of decay or an injury. Generally, optional treatments are not considered necessary. However, some medical insurance policies provide coverage for restorations required after an illness or accident.
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