What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental procedures that improve the appearance or function of your teeth. Cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, braces, and veneers. Your cosmetic dentist will evaluate your smile and recommend one or more cosmetic procedures to improve your smile!

Veneers

Dental veneers are routinely used to fix the appearance of teeth that are:

- Chipped or broken

- Misshapen

- Discolored

Crowns

Crowns, or caps, are dental restorations that protect damaged, discolored, or weak teeth. A crown, which is placed over the entire tooth, covers the entire visible surface.

Dental crowns are often used when the tooth has a cavity, has a large filling, cracks, breaks, or is misshapen.

Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss. The procedure involves surgically implanting a small titanium post into your jawbone beneath the gums. Titanium is the best material for dental implants because it bonds easily with bone and tissue and is durable enough to last a lifetime.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. Whitening your teeth can really help improve the appearance of your smile.

Our dentist can whiten your teeth, as well as fix any imperfections. For instance, if a tooth is chipped, cracked, or stained, we can restore its appearance through a bonding procedure.

Some patients are also interested in porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells that can improve the appearance of your smile, as well as fix alignment problems.

To find out more about cosmetic dentistry, contact your dentist.

Fixing braces

Many people choose to get braces to fix crooked teeth or to fix an overbite. Braces work by gently pushing your teeth into position, little by little. While braces are very effective, they are not problem-free. Your braces could break or come loose, or your teeth could shift into different positions. That’s why you need to see your cosmetic dentist regularly.

Special procedures

Some of the special procedures that can improve the appearance of your smile include the following:

Choosing a cosmetic procedure

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, there’s many different treatments available. In many cases, a cosmetic dentist may recommend multiple treatments. For example, someone with crooked teeth may benefit from Invisalign treatment, porcelain veneers, or dental crowns. Your dentist is the best person to advise you on which treatments will help you meet your goals.

Risks and complications

Dental crowns and implants are highly effective. However, they aren’t perfect. Dental crowns and implants can chip, break, or fall out. These issues are usually preventable, but they’re possible. When complications do occur, they can often be fixed.

Costs explained

Your dental insurance plan may cover some cosmetic dentistry procedures. Other cosmetic treatments, such as porcelain veneers, are elective, so they won’t be covered.

Talk to your dentist to find out how many treatments you’ll need to get the results you want. For example, if you want whiter teeth, your dentist may suggest getting whitening treatments, as well as veneers.

Keep in mind that cosmetic treatments can be expensive. If you don’t have insurance, be prepared to pay out of pocket. Your dentist may be able to work with you to create a payment plan.