If you’re unhappy or uncomfortable with the appearance of your teeth, you might be a candidate for cosmetic dentistry.  The Consumer Guide to Dentistry defines cosmetic dentistry in this way:

“While traditional dentistry focuses on oral hygiene and preventing, diagnosing and treating oral disease, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth, mouth and smile. In other words restorative, general and/or family dental practices address dental problems that require necessary treatment, whereas cosmetic dentistry provides elective – or desired – treatments or services.”

The Most Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Emerging technologies have vastly improved the effectiveness of cosmetic dentistry treatments.  Dentists are now better able to preserve more of your natural tooth’s structure, and can use lasers to perform an increasing number of procedures, making referrals to specialists less frequent.  That said, here are 7 of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments:

• Inlays/onlays:  inlays and onlays are made from porcelain or composite materials.  They fill in gaps created by dental decay and other kinds of structural damage.
• Composite bonding:  this treatment is used to repair chipped, discolored or decayed teeth.  Your dentist will apply a dental composite to the affected area, then sculpt and contour it into shape that blends naturally with your surrounding teeth.
• Teeth whitening:  this is among the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments.  Your dentist will bleach your teeth to remove stains caused by food, drink and smoking.
• Dental veneers:  veneers are porcelain laminates or composites that your dentist bonds adhesively to the surface of a tooth to repair chips and cracks.  Veneers can also be used to fill gaps in your teeth.
• Dental implants:  these are artificial tooth replacements for teeth you’ve lost.
• Smile makeover:  the smile makeover is a more comprehensive treatment that might involve several cosmetic procedures, such as veneers, implants, gingival sculpting and teeth whitening.
• Full Mouth reconstruction:  your dentist might recommend a mouth reconstruction if he discovers functional problems with your teeth, bite, or bone structure.

The decision to undergo cosmetic dentistry is not one you should make lightly.  It’s important to find an experienced and competent professional whom you can trust. Cosmetic Dentistry is all about precision, artistry & experience. Dr. Chad & his team at Fox View Dental will provide you with the facts and advice you need to make an informed decision. Contact us today and take the first step towards a new smile. Learn more about Dr. Chad’s smile makeover!