Cosmetic Dentistry

Introduction

A beautiful smile has a real impact on confidence, self-esteem and social success.

Almost any dental problem related with your smile can now be treated with cosmetic dentistry.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry can be any type of dental procedure which enhances the patient's teeth and their smile, thus improving a person's overall appearance and self-confidence.

Cosmetic dentistry offers many treatment options for people who want to improve their teeth and smile.

What procedures are done in cosmetic dentistry?

Some cosmetic procedures that are commonly done to patients are as follows:

• Procedures for enhancing the appearance of teeth:

Dental Veneers: In this treatment a thin wafer like material which is tooth coloured, known as porcelain veneer or porcelain laminate, is designed to cover the front portion of the teeth. These are used to correct and repair chips and cracks or severe tooth discoloration.

Dental Crowns: Crown is a tooth shaped cap that is placed over the tooth surface to improve its appearance. Crowns may be metal, porcelain or ceramic.

Teeth Whitening: This is the most commonly recommended cosmetic dental procedure to improve the appearance of teeth. This procedure is done in cases of stains from smoking, food, drink and poor oral hygiene. Bleaching is done by bleaching strips, bleaching pen, bleaching gel, laser bleaching and natural bleaching.

• Procedures for replacing the missing teeth:

Missing teeth can cause the face to collapse making you look older, so it is necessary for the replacement of missing teeth. If the space is left unfilled, this space can cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of position and can cause teeth and gums to become more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease that can cause further tooth loss.

Dental Implants: These are artificial tooth root replacements to compensate for tooth loss. Dental Implants are natural looking replacements for missing teeth that also provide the same function as your natural tooth root.

Fixed Bridge: A fixed bridge is an appliance made of porcelain to replace missing teeth in the most natural way. It is used to replace one or more missing teeth, thereby bridging the space between the teeth. Fixed bridges are cemented into place next to the surrounding teeth on either side of the space. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of the mouth by the patient.

Dentures: These are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth. They are supported by surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. They are usually made from an acrylic base which is fitted with porcelain artificial teeth. Dentures can be complete or partial. Complete dentures cover the entire upper and lower jaw. Partial dentures replace one or a few teeth.

• Procedures for restoring function and aesthetics:

Crooked Teeth: Misalignment of teeth is one of the most widespread dental problems. Malocclusion is misalignment of teeth in the upper jaw with the teeth of the lower jaw. It is usually caused by problems with the shape or size of the jaw or teeth. Many people may have some degree of malocclusion. Malocclusion is treated by orthodontic treatment through the use of appliances, tooth removal or surgery. Orthodontics or braces can improve the appearance of teeth in children and adults who have crooked teeth or teeth with wide gaps. Braces are appliances that correct dental irregularities and are commonly used in the treatment of malocclusion. These apply constant gentle force to slowly change the position of teeth, straighten them and properly align them with the opposing teeth.

Composite Bonding: Plastic material or resin material which matches the colour of the tooth is applied. It is then bonded with the tooth using a special kind of light. The material comes in different shades, toughness and translucencies that can match the teeth. It is then used to fill cavities, eliminate spots, chips or discolorations.

Gum Lifts: Gum lift or gingivectomy involves removing part of the gums to make the teeth appear longer and the gum line even. This procedure is done in people who have excess gum covering the front teeth and an upper lip which comes up high when they smile.

Conclusion:

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person's teeth, mouth and smile. Cosmetic dentistry strives to restore symmetry and rebuild the tooth in a way that looks natural and appealing.