The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance a patient's smile by improving the teeth's appearance regarding:
Every mouth has different proportions and presents unique dental challenges. The success of all aesthetic dental procedures relies on the artistry and experience of the cosmetic dentist.
Over the past decades, advances in dental technology have made various cosmetic treatments more accessible to the general population. Treatments once considered luxuries are now routinely administered.
A cosmetic dentist can address stains and discoloration of the teeth caused by food and drink or tobacco by coating the teeth with a gel containing a bleaching agent. Oxygen molecules in this substance penetrate the enamel and dentin layers, deactivating and removing stain-causing molecules. It is necessary to use a protective shield to keep the gel from potentially irritating the gums. Some dentists use heat and light to help the gel penetrate the dentin layer. Teeth whitening can successfully restore a patient's natural dentin color, but it is not suitable for brightening sensitive, thin, broken, or artificial teeth.
Thin porcelain laminates or veneers can effectively improve the appearance of teeth that do not respond to whitening or have chips and cracks. This treatment can also address gaps between teeth. The cosmetic dentist polishes away some of the tooth enamel to ensure that the veneer is on the same level as the surrounding teeth. Choosing the veneer's shape, color, and size to complement the patient's smile requires careful consideration. Once this is determined, the dentist attaches the lab-made laminate to the tooth's surface. Veneers can dramatically improve a smile by covering a portion of a tooth, an entire tooth, or multiple teeth.
Individual teeth that require minor cosmetic adjustments can be excellent candidates for bonding. This simple treatment can occur within one hour. The dentist scrapes away a small amount of enamel and coats the exposed surface with an adhesive substance that helps a resin tooth-shaped cover bond with the natural tooth. The resin is soft and malleable, allowing the dentist to adjust its shape and size to blend well with the surrounding teeth. Bonding relies on a skilled hand and an artistic eye to give a tooth cover a realistic appearance.
Natural teeth with minor size and shape imperfections can benefit from simple contouring. This treatment can also improve the appearance of teeth that overlap or have minor chips. A dentist sands away portions of the enamel before reshaping and polishing the natural teeth. The dentist must take great care when outlining the intended shape and removing parts of the teeth because the procedure is irreversible. This treatment can sometimes eliminate the need for braces for simple cosmetic problems.
Recent advances in dentistry have made smile-enhancing procedures widely available. Most patients find that a cosmetic dentist can make significant improvements that are quick and painless.
Request an appointment or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at 941-676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.
Cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. A general dentist can assess your mouth and perform some of the treatments you need. You can also get a referral to another dental care provider for more complex treatments. Here are the common cosmetic dentistry procedures that you should consider.This field of dentistry…
Thinking about choosing a cosmetic dentist? Read on to learn more about what to consider during your search. To many patients, cosmetic dentistry is primarily a cosmetic enhancement. However, it often intersects with overall dental health. Therefore, it is important to consider several aspects before settling on a cosmetic dentist.Cosmetic dentists do more than enhance…
Aside from the aesthetic benefits, visiting a cosmetic dentist is a great way to boost your confidence. People often use cosmetic dentistry to improve their self-esteem, overcome trauma, reduce anxiety, and much more. This article will break down all the reasons you need to schedule your smile makeover with our cosmetic dentist.Many people believe they…
Missing teeth can severely affect an individual's self-esteem. Fortunately, an implant dentist can help restore…
An implant dentist can provide a natural-looking and durable alternative to traditional tooth-replacement methods with…
Dental cleanings are not only about cleanliness, but they also contribute to oral health.
Find out what dentists use laser dentistry for and whether this treatment can correct your…
Implant dentists provide a teeth replacement option that closely resembles natural teeth. Whether a patient…
Dental implants may be the answer if you are looking for a long-lasting alternative to…
