Last updated on August 16th, 2023
Some people are unhappy with their smile, so they tend to hide it. Also, many believe that a better smile can make them more attractive and open doors to better positions in their professional life. Therefore, they seek out ways to beautify their smile through cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic dentistry allows millions of people to smile beautifully by eliminating the various problems spoiling their smile. In this post, you will read about the types and procedures of aesthetic dentistry.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the term used for all types of dental work that aims to improve the appearance of the gums, teeth, or bites. Therefore, it may require different dentistry specialties such as Endodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontics, or Prosthodontics. The primary focus is on aesthetic improvement though some procedures also address functional problems.
Symmetry and harmony are the basic guidelines of cosmetic dentistry. Unfortunately, most people have one or more dental problems, such as discoloration, teeth gaps, uneven gum lines, decayed or missing teeth, etc. Some cosmetic issues can lead to functional problems as well. Thus, while a patient is trying to have a more beautiful smile through cosmetic dentistry, s/he can also have a better bite and stronger teeth.
Though some authorities do not regard cosmetic dentistry as a formal branch of dentistry, there are already accreditation organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic dentistry.
What Is The Difference Between A Dentist And Cosmetic Dentist?
A dentist, or a general dentist, deals with oral problems by preventing or treating them. Usually, s/he tries to enhance the function of the teeth, gums, or jaw structure. A cosmetic dentist, on the other hand, focuses on aesthetic improvements through specific cosmetic procedures.
However, a general dentist can help their patients have a better smile thanks to functional treatments. Likewise, a cosmetic dentist can provide solutions addressing functional problems while s/he is making improvements to the overall appearance of your teeth.
In summary, the difference is their priority, which is predetermined by patients’ needs. Therefore, patients should explain their problems and discuss them with dental professionals in detail.
Who Needs Cosmetic Dentistry?
Generally speaking, people who have some aesthetic issues may need cosmetic dentistry to gain a beautiful smile and self-confidence. However, the thing that you consider an “aesthetic problem” may only be a slight dental variation in comparison to someone else.
Some people think that anyone with a teeth gap, uneven gum line, missing teeth, etc. should consider cosmetic dentistry. This is not necessarily correct. If a person is happy with how s/he looks, then there is no need for aesthetic improvements. The need should be triggered by intrinsic factors rather than what other people think of it. You should avoid following the crowd.
Nonetheless, if you are concerned with your smile, and are always trying to hide it, then you should take a look at what modern cosmetic dentistry can do for you. However, this doesn’t mean that you should go get treatment on impulse. The best way to begin is to make a consultation appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist. A qualified and experienced dentist with strict ethical principles can perform a thorough examination of your mouth and smile while discussing the pros and cons in detail.
What Are the Types Of Cosmetic Dental Treatments?
Cosmetic dentistry refers to a number of treatments aiming to give patients a better smile. Here is a list of the most common practices in cosmetic dentistry.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening or teeth bleaching is, arguably, the most popular service that patients get. Professional teeth whitening can remarkably brighten your smile. Although there are more invasive procedures required for a better smile, simple and professional teeth whitening can make a great difference in your smile.
Teeth Bonding
Dental bonding is the application of a composite resin material on the enamel layer. The color is matched to the tooth, and thus it is an effective way to conceal cracks and broken teeth. It is also applied to make the teeth longer, wider, or more evenly shaped.
Dental Bridge
Dental bridges are used to fill in the spaces between the teeth. A pontic, an artificial tooth, is attached between two teeth to bridge the gap. Patients who are suffering from small, cracked, misshapen teeth can get crowns for them while at the same time filling the space between two teeth with an artificial tooth. The results are usually very satisfactory.
Implants
There are different techniques for how implants are applied in cosmetic dentistry, such as implant crowns, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures. Implants are mostly used for functional reasons, but they can be used for aesthetic purposes, too. Since implants are the most effective and permanent way to replace missing teeth, patients looking for a sturdy and natural-looking smile makeover prefer dental implants.
Veneers
Veneers are highly popular among people who need an instant change to their smile, so much so that cosmetic dentistry is sometimes called veneer dentistry. Typically, thin layers of porcelain are attached to the front of the teeth to hide a wide range of defects like discoloration, chips, cracks, etc. You can find porcelain, zirconium, and composite veneers. While porcelain and zirconium are more durable and resilient, composite veneers are more affordable and less abrasive to tooth enamel.
Crowns
Crowns are metal or porcelain caps set onto problematic teeth. Though it is more of a functional treatment, cosmetic dentistry can make use of crowns to create better smiles. Once the crowns are attached, patients can use them for about 10 years. The average lifespan of a crown is mostly dependent on the oral care given by the patients.
Aesthetical Porcelain Fillings
Aesthetic porcelain fillings, or inlays/onlays, are a good way to fill problematic teeth in an attractive way. Unlike regular fillings, porcelain fillings are used for larger cavities, and they look much more natural. The treatment is recommended when the remaining tooth doesn’t look good due to decay or wear. Aesthetic porcelain fillings can also last up to 10 years.
Smile Design
Smile design allows people to choose how they want to smile. Even if a patient has no dental problems, a smile design can find ways to enhance his/her smile in a very personalized way. If there are certain dental problems, dentists will also treat them. Using the software, digital smile designer dentists can show patients a preview of their target smile. Since the procedures of a smile design can vary from one person to another, it is harder to give a cost estimate before the patient receives the first examination.
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring helps patients get rid of excessive gum tissue and/or uneven gum line. If you have a gummy smile, consider professional gum treatment as a part of your personalized cosmetic dentistry. Dentists may remove the excessive gum tissue in case of gummy smiles. However, if the problem is gum recession, then they restore the gum tissue through specialized surgical techniques.
Bite Reclamation
Due to several factors, the tooth enamel or dentin can wear away and teeth get shorter, and lose their natural beauty after time. The problem can cause pain, biting and chewing difficulty, and aesthetic deterioration. Bite reclamation can help correct the overall shape of the teeth.
Crooked, Dense, Or Gappy Teeth Treatment
Orthodontic methods are also part of cosmetic dentistry. If you have crooked, dense, or gappy teeth, then braces or Invisalign are the most common treatments to overcome these problems. Depending on the overall condition of the patient’s mouth, crowns or veneers can be added to the treatment plans. The results are often amazing when the treatment is done by experienced dental professionals.
Fractured, Chipped, Or Cracked Teeth Treatment
If the teeth are cracked, fractured, or chipped, composite bonding is usually the most practical way of fixing them. If the problems are more severe, cosmetic dentists can consider veneers and crowns, too. Note that the composite bonding cost is usually more affordable than that of veneers or crowns.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry promises a beautiful smile for everybody, but still, you should consider both the pros and cons of doing it.
Pros
More Confidence With your Smile
Cosmetic dentistry opens new doors for you to level up in your career and personal life by giving you a more beautiful smile. You can smile beautifully and confidently with your perfect teeth soon after the treatments.
General Health Improvement
As you might already know, poor oral health can lead to more serious health problems. Cosmetic dentistry provides you with restoration, replacement, or prevention through various dental treatments. Typically, people who get cosmetic dental procedures also tend to take better care of their overall health (like diet, regular exercise, alcohol…etc).
Young And Energetic Look
Successful touches of cosmetic dentistry will make you look 10-15 years younger. Moreover, it is not only the way you look, but it will also make you feel younger and more energetic than before.
Cons
Price
Achieving dental beauty is awesome, but what about the cost of cosmetic dentistry? Unfortunately, many insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic procedures, and you will need to pay the full price. Also, since each patient has an individual treatment plan, it is almost impossible to make an estimate of the total cost before having a consultation in person.
Irreversibility: Most cosmetic dentistry procedures are permanent, so you cannot undo the treatments. Moreover, you need to renew some of them, like veneers or teeth whitening when needed.
Complications
Some cosmetic dentistry procedures like dental implants, crowns, teeth bleaching, or gum contouring can result in discomfort, sensitivity, or even infections. Therefore, you should strictly adhere to the post-operative routines instructed by the dentist.
Why Does Cosmetic Dentistry Cost So Much?
One reason can be the fact that cosmetic dentists need to add symmetry and harmony to their regular work. Finding merely functional solutions to dental problems may not be enough aesthetically. Dentists, therefore, pay extra effort to tackle the issues taking the size, color, shape, and overall harmony into consideration. Creating the perfect smile is the key motivation.
How Can I Afford A Cosmetic Dentist?
Cosmetic dentistry is an awesome way to smile like the Hollywood stars and gain your self-confidence back. However, as stated above, most insurance plans don’t pay for esthetic dentistry, and thereby, the cost of cosmetic dentistry may be too high, especially when there is more than one treatment you need to get. The good news is you are not doomed to suffer like that.
Annually, millions of people benefit from the advantages of dental tourism. Getting dental treatment abroad can save a good amount of money for other essentials in your life. Turkey is one of the most popular dental tourism destinations in the world since the dental clinics and professionals are highly qualified and experienced, apart from its rich cultural, natural, and historical beauties.
Maltepe Dental Clinic offers international patients the best quality service. We have a clear dental tourism process, high-end dental technology and, most importantly, dental professionals are all of the highest qualifications. So, finding an excellent cosmetic dental clinic with affordable prices is not an issue if you contact Maltepe Dental Clinic before you come to Turkey.
FAQs About Cosmetic Dentistry
Here you can find some of the popular questions about cosmetic dentistry.
Can A General Dentist Do Cosmetic dentistry?
Yes, a general dentist is already familiar with the procedures used in cosmetic dentistry, but cosmetic dentistry also requires artistic and creative ability.
What Is The Most Popular Cosmetic Dental Procedure?
Teeth whitening is generally the most popular cosmetic dental procedure.
What Is The Difference Between Restorative Dentistry And Cosmetic dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on functional problems, while cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the appearance of the teeth, jaw, or gums.
Can A General Dentist Do Cosmetic dentistry?
Yes, a general dentist can do cosmetic dentistry, providing that s/he gains an aesthetic perspective in dentistry.
SOURCES
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23914-cosmetic-dentistry
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-cosmetic-dentistry
https://aacd.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmetic_dentistry
