Cosmetic dentistry corrects the dental appearance, the position of the teeth, and gums to improve the appearance. In this way, it can be said that cosmetic dentistry gives a restorative type of treatment. The focus in cosmetic dentistry is mostly on the aesthetic value it provides. Dental health is improved by the different cosmetic procedures that are available.

Most procedures that come under cosmetic density help improve the overall appearance of the teeth and give back the sparkle to the teeth. But the treatment procedures are not limited to just that they provide confidence to the person and also improve oral health. Without the procedures the oral health will suffer and many would have to resort to less than perfect health due to dental issues.

Tooth bleaching

Whitening teeth is a cosmetic procedure that most people undergo. The colour of the teeth change due to ageing mostly, other dental issues which change the colour of the teeth can also be due to lifestyle such as drinking coffee, wine or using tobacco. Stains are also caused if there is teeth decay. Injury to the mouth will also bring in teeth discolouration. Long term medications also bring in discolouration of the teeth.

Depending on the type of discolouration, dentists will suggest teeth whitening procedures. Intrinsic and extrinsic stains require different types of treatment. It is not just teeth whitening that is conducted, dentists will also clean plaque or tartar before the whitening procedure. Plaque or tartar build up is one of the major causes of teeth decay. Along with sparkling teeth dental health is boosted.

Dental implants

A major restorative cosmetic procedure is dental implants. This helps to replace lost teeth – single or multiple teeth can be replaced using this procedure. The biggest advantage of this procedure is the durability that it gives to the wearer. Dental implants are fixed to the jaw bone and replacement teeth are placed on it. The teeth are fixed onto the jaw bone and there is no fear of teeth falling out.

This procedure is a complex surgery and is conducted under anaesthesia. It will take time for the procedure to complete and depends on how fast the jaw bone and gum tissue heal. It is also important to follow after care treatment. Taking care of what food is consumed after treatment and following the guidance of the dentist helps in easy and faster recovery. Replaced teeth are indistinguishable from natural teeth and taking care of the teeth like natural teeth and promotes dental health.

Dental bonding

Bonding the teeth enamel to improve the teeth’s appearance or smile is called dental bonding. A resin-coloured material is applied to the teeth and cured with light – this hardens and provides the teeth extra shine and brightness. Giving the teeth extra protection and also enhancing their appearance is possible with this treatment. Teeth that are damaged, chipped or broken can be set right with this procedure.

This procedure can be set to be custom made as this procedure helps to set right each tooth. The resin which is similar to natural teeth is applied to the damaged teeth and then the dentist will shape and mould the resin according to the shape of the teeth. It is later polished to bring in the sparkle to the teeth along with the shape. Restoration of teeth and improved functionality are achieved by this procedure.

Dental veneers

There are different types of dental veneers that can help to set right issues of the gap between teeth, cracked or broken teeth or teeth that are worn down. Sometimes teeth wear off and it is impossible to restore the teeth using teeth whitening, dental veneers can be of use then. These dental veneers are custom made and come in different types such as composite veneers or porcelain veneers. The veneers are placed over teeth that are misshaped or broken and treated with a special light that helps these veneers to stick to them.

It is important to give proper care to teeth after this procedure. Daily cleaning and flossing should be practiced to maintain good oral hygiene. Decay or cavities can develop even when veneers are placed hence oral cleanliness should be maintained at all times. Veneers can break if pressure is applied to them while chewing on hard food like nuts or ice. If they chip off then it is important to seek immediate care from a dentist.

Inlays and Onlays

Restoring and strengthening teeth that are decayed is possible through this cosmetic dentistry procedure. This is possible when decay has not spread widely. A small structure of the teeth lost due to decay can be restored through this. The grooves of the teeth that are damaged are removed and they are replaced with inlays. The inlays are similar to the natural teeth and when replaced they are not visible and there is no confidence lost in the person who undergoes this process. Along with removing the decay these inlays also provide extra support to the teeth.

Onlays are similar to inlays and are used when damage is a bit more extensive and has spread to the cusp or biting surface of the teeth. That is how it differs from inlays that cover only the groves of the teeth. Both procedures are similar and the process is conducted under anaesthesia as it requires removing the decay from the teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry is not only about giving a confidence boost to people, it aids in promoting and enhancing oral and dental health in a person. With techniques and procedures that are very cost-effective, complex dental concerns can be set right. It is important to keep a check on dental issues by going for regular dental check-ups and seek care when warning signs arise in oral health.