Technically, cosmetic dentistry is performed to improve a person’s appearance, but when it comes to the teeth, sometimes form does influence function. For example, aligning someone’s teeth improves their ability to chew and even speak properly. Here are some services offered by a cosmetic dentist:
Invisalign
Invisalign is a series of plastic trays a patient wears to straighten their teeth. Though the trays are worn for most of the day, they can be removed for dental hygiene and for eating. This makes them a bit easier to manage than traditional braces, which can only be taken out by a dentist and which restrict the types of foods the patient can eat. Invisalign is worn for about the same amount of time as traditional braces.
Teeth Whitening
Though people can whiten their teeth at home, whitening in the local dentist office is safer, and the results are even more brilliant.
Bonding
With bonding, the cosmetic dentist uses composite material to fill in gaps between the teeth or to fix teeth that are cracked, chipped or are just generally unappealing.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are extremely thin shells that are placed over teeth to improve their appearance. The tooth is first etched, and then the shell is placed over it and secured with dental cement that is cured with a special light. Lumineers are even thinner than porcelain veneers, and the teeth don’t have to be etched to receive them.
Crowns
Crowns are also used to improve the appearance of teeth that are damaged. Nowadays, porcelain crowns are created with the help of computers to be a match for the patient’s other teeth. Because of this, they are almost indistinguishable from real teeth.
Gum Lift
This is done for people who believe they show too much of their gums when they smile. In this procedure, the dentist uses a dental laser to contour the patient’s gum line. Botox can also be used to treat a “gummy” smile by paralyzing the muscles that cause the lips to raise too far up from the teeth. Both types of gum lifts can be done at the local dentist office.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are not only used to remove wrinkles and furrows in the face and neck, but they can add volume to the patient’s lips. This makes their smile more attractive.
Any one who is unhappy with the look of their teeth or their smile shouldn’t hesitate to call our dentist’s office and ask for an appointment.
