The world of cosmetic dentistry continues to grow in leaps and bounds, becoming more accessible and more encompassing with every passing year. Many of the original concepts are the same, though tools, techniques, research, and materials have advanced far above what they used to be. With these rising technologies comes a rising cost for services, though statistically cosmetic surgery is more affordable now than it was thirty years ago. if you are considering one of the many options available to you today, a long and honest consultation with a proven professional will help you to discern what will and will not be suitable for your situation.
Cosmetic dentistry involves any condition or procedure that is not based on the health of your teeth, gums, or other oral parts. When a person presents with strong, healthy teeth, but is unhappy with their shape, appearance, alignment, or other aspects, this is when cosmetic dentistry comes into play. The most popular form of treatment along these lines is whitening, wherein the patient will opt for a procedure to improve the color of the teeth. This procedure is not for everyone, including those with sensitive, corroded, decayed, or otherwise weakened tooth enamel. Whitening weakens the enamel further and can be rather painful for those with preexisting issues.
Contouring has also become a popular alternative to other more costly and extensive procedures, such as braces and porcelain veneers. Those with overlapping, crooked, uneven, jagged, or otherwise unshapely natural teeth may opt to have the enamel filed down or shaved on some of them, while having a bonding agent applied to others, evening out and shaping the natural teeth so that veneers and braces are not necessary. This procedure has its risks, as often the dentin can be exposed and further troubles are possible. In all, this is considered as a safe and timely alternative.
Bonding plays a part in the cosmetic dentistry procedure described above, while other common treatments include dental bridges, veneers, and implants. The bridge is formed to fit between two existing porcelain or enamel teeth in order to create a missing tooth. Implants are perhaps one of the most invasive, though permanent, cosmetic elements performed today, entailing the screwing of manufactured teeth to the jaw in place of lost or removed natural teeth. Veneers are the most expensive cosmetic treatment for the teeth, but are also extremely dependable, durable, and natural looking.
