Are cosmetic dental procedures helpful?
Cosmetic dental procedures are becoming increasingly popular in recent years. From simple teeth whitening to teeth reshaping and veneers, there is no limit to the range of treatments you can undergo.
What is considered cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a division of dentistry that focuses on the look and appearance of the teeth. That said, it has nothing to do with the underlying teeth health. Think of it as a smile-makeover or dental “makeup” for your teeth.
Patients undergo cosmetic dentistry to enhance their smiles. Many treatments target different dental aspects. Let’s walk through them in detail.
CEREC® Restorations: Porcelain
CEREC is an acronym for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. It is a digital alternative to fitting a crown or a veneer to your damaged or worn-out teeth. With CEREC, you don’t need to worry about impression materials, the discomfort of holding them up in your mouth, or any allergies.
In CEREC® Restorations, the dentist uses a camera to scan the dental structure of your mouth. Then, using that image, the computer designs a dental prosthesis with the correct measurement. The design is manufactured in the CEREC machine. Your dental prosthesis is ready and fixed in your mouth. It’s an easy and quick treatment that takes no more than an hour.
The CEREC crowns are made of porcelain. They are strong and look like natural teeth. This makes them a great addition to cosmetic dentistry.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are used when the tooth has a moderate decay and require an intermediary between crowns and dental fillings. They are made of a porcelain-like material. Inlays are used for minor damages and work on the surface. Onlays are for excessive damages and are used on the cusps. They are like crowns but only for the visibly damaged area of your single tooth.
Veneers
Veneers enhance your tooth’s appearance and smile. They are a crisp, thin layer covering that shields your tooth. They bond with the enamel surface and are usually fitted on the front teeth. Likewise, they are the best alternatives for teeth discoloration, tooth chipping, and more.
Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges work wonders for teeth gaps. They come in various materials like ceramic, metal, or a combination of both.
Professional Teeth whitening
In order to remove surface stains, deep teeth stains, or discolored teeth, professional teeth whitening treatment is a must. The dentist uses whitening gels combined with heat and light to whiten your teeth permanently. The results are quick and long-lasting in comparison to the traditional DIY teeth whitening methods or over-the-counter products.
Advantages of cosmetic dental procedures
Self-confidence and self-esteem
Keeping in mind your teeth are ideal-looking, you feel more confident flaunting your smile in social situations.
A long-term approach to a beautiful smile
Although they are sometimes expensive, cosmetic dentistry treatments enhance your smile in the long term. You can achieve a picture-perfect smile with the help of your cosmetic dentist.
Youthful appearance
Unkempt teeth give an unhygienic look. Plus, they give off an aged appearance. Receiving a cosmetic dentistry procedure will help make your teeth look solid, youthful, and pearly white.
Improves overall appearance
Cosmetic dentistry targets broken teeth, chipped teeth, misaligned teeth, discoloured or stained, and weak teeth. With cosmetic dentistry treatment, you get straight, shiny, and strong teeth as a result.
Eat whatever you want
Missing teeth or irregularly shaped teeth may influence your diet choices. A complete set of functioning teeth will allow you to eat the foods you love and enjoy.
Functional aspects of cosmetic dentistry
Encourages oral health
Cosmetic dentistry treatments like CEREC® Restorations improve your bite. Veneers and other dental implants support weak teeth. Teeth whitening removes plaque buildup, further preventing tooth decay. Cosmetic dentistry thus encourages oral health.
Promotes the better maintenance of oral hygiene
Many cosmetic dentistry treatments begin with teeth cleaning. The dentist also targets tooth decay and damage. This helps in maintaining oral hygiene practices at home. Once treatment is complete, naturally, you will want to preserve the appearance and overall condition of your teeth.
Improves oral function
For improper teeth structures, the bite is affected adversely. This puts unnecessary pressure on the adjacent teeth and induces pain in the gums and jaw. Cosmetic dentistry improves bite and structure, eventually improving oral function.
It prevents damage from worsening
During cosmetic dentistry treatments, the dentist also works on the root cause. For instance, before fixing inlays and onlays, the dentist will scrape off the underlying cavity. This prevents your teeth from further worsening.
Cosmetic dental treatments are proven effective for a range of dental needs. They are extremely helpful for your oral health and appearance. While many of these procedures are performed in the patient’s best interests, finding a dentist you can trust is essential. If you are bothered with any dental issues, we advise you to contact Ashraf Dentistry today.
