Table of Contents
- Key Points
- What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
- Why Is Cosmetic Dentistry Important?
- Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures
- How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist
- Find Cosmetic Dentistry Near You
- References
Key Points
Everyone wants to feel confident about their smile. Correcting dental issues like damaged or misaligned teeth can help give a person confidence and increase their self-esteem.
Cosmetic dentistry is rarely merely cosmetic though. Crooked or unsightly teeth and gums are almost always the result of underlying problems. These not only can lead to more serious dental issues, but are also linked to other health risks, from cardiovascular disease to diabetes, inflammation, and even cancer.1
This article explores the ins and outs of cosmetic dentistry. It details the procedures categorized as cosmetic dental treatments and explains the (often overlooked) health advantages to them, as well as what to look for in a qualified cosmetic dentist in Greenville SC. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry refers to practices and procedures to enhance the aesthetic appeal of teeth and gums. Unlike general dentistry, which prioritizes oral health, the primary focus of cosmetic dentistry is to address issues like:
It is easy to see how the goals of cosmetic dentistry often overlap with those of general or other specialized dental treatments.
Why Is Cosmetic Dentistry Important?
First, it is vital to understand that “cosmetic dentistry” is rarely purely cosmetic. For instance, patients who wish to address crooked, damaged, or missing teeth in order to have a straighter smile will find that doing so also improves chewing, speaking, and overall comfort. Moreover, addressing damaged or missing teeth will help avoid more serious dental problems, like infections and jawbone degeneration.
Next, to say improving one’s smile is merely cosmetic is misleading. There are mental health benefits associated with a straight, healthy smile. At the very minimum, cosmetic dentistry has the potential to improve the patient’s confidence and sense of self-worth.
Finally, as mentioned, dental health is closely linked to a person’s overall health. The mouth is part of the body, and so other conditions can impact dental health and vice versa: poor dental health can cause or exacerbate certain health conditions. Just a few examples include:
The dental health of pregnant mothers can even impact birth weights.2 For these reasons, addressing “cosmetic” issues can improve a patient’s dental health and, in turn, their overall health as well.
Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Many different procedures can fall under the umbrella of “cosmetic dentistry.” Below are the most prominent ones.
Teeth Whitening
One of the most popular dental procedures—and one that falls solidly in the “cosmetic” category—is teeth whitening. It is often used to address stains on teeth caused by coffee, smoking, or aging. While over-the-counter teeth whitening products are prominent, cosmetic dentists use high concentrations of bleaching agents to expedite the process, and for more dramatic results.
Enamel Contouring
A very basic cosmetic dental procedure is enamel shaping. This is a process that utilizes sanding discs or burs to remove small amounts of tooth enamel to improve the appearance of teeth. It is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that is suitable for minor chips or cracks, as well as slightly misshapen or uneven (in length) teeth.
Gum Reshaping
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses scalpels or dental lasers to modify the shape and size of gums. It is commonly used in situations where gum tissue is excessive or the gumline is uneven.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are very thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surfaces of teeth to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. They are usually made of porcelain or composite resin, which are durable and stain-resistant.
Veneers are a popular option when teeth are chipped, broken, or misshapen. They can also be used to correct gaps between teeth or when severe discoloration cannot be corrected by whitening.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure used to repair cosmetic flaws in cracked or chipped teeth. It can also fill in gaps between teeth, conceal discoloration, and protect exposed tooth roots.
Dental bonding uses a resin that matches the color of the patient’s teeth. The process involves slightly roughening the surface of the tooth and applying a conditioning liquid.
The resin is applied, then molded and smoothed to the desired shape. A special ultraviolet light or laser is then used to harden the material. Finally, the bonded tooth is polished to produce a more natural appearance.
Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns and bridges are cosmetic procedures that are used to restore the function of normal teeth. Crowns are usually made of porcelain, resin, or metal (such as gold, stainless steel, or zirconia), and cover existing teeth. Bridges consist of two crowns that support an artificial tooth on each side, designed to replace a missing natural tooth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are another common cosmetic dental procedure, although they are often used to correct functional issues as well. One major advantage of dental implants over other procedures is that they are a more permanent fix to missing teeth.
Dental implants involve the placement of metal (usually titanium) posts into the jawbone. Through a process known as osseointegration, the posts fuse to the bone, creating a stable support.3 An abutment is then secured to the post, which supports an artificial ceramic tooth, called a “pontic.”
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of both dental and facial irregularities. In general, its goal is to correct problems related to the alignment of teeth and jaws. Common conditions include crooked or crowded teeth, as well as those spaced too far apart.
When most people think of orthodontics, metal braces come to mind. However, clear aligners, retainers, and palatal expanders are other common tools, some of which can be prescribed by a dentist (and do not require visiting a dedicated orthodontist).
How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist
One of the most important things to look for when choosing a cosmetic dentist is experience. Ensure that physicians have performed a wide range of procedures, which will ensure they can meet your cosmetic dentistry needs, regardless of what they are.
It’s also a good idea to ask about technology. Ensuring that a dental practice stays up to date on modern tools and techniques will yield the best possible outcomes for the dental work being done.
Don’t be afraid to ask for this information. You can also read online reviews to gauge past or current patients’ experience with the dental office. Finally, most prominent dental practices will allow you to set up a free office visit and consultation to determine if it is a good fit.
Find Cosmetic Dentistry Near You
Now that you understand the many procedures involved in cosmetic dentistry, you can determine which may be right for you. An experienced cosmetic dentist can further advise you on the advantages of each, as well as any drawbacks, and how that relates to your unique circumstances.
At ProGrin, we offer a full range of cosmetic procedures, from teeth whitening to clear aligners, veneers, bridges, crowns, and more. More importantly, our team of dental experts can advise you on the right approach based on your particular aesthetic and dental health goals. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.
References
- Dipti M. Bhatnagar, “Oral Health: A Gateway to Overall Health,” Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, September 2021, from: https://journals.lww.com/cocd/fulltext/2021/12030/oral_health__a_gateway_to_overall_health.1.aspx.
- Ibid.
- Lyndon F. Cooper and Sajjad Shirazi, “Osseointegration—the Biological Reality of Successful Dental Implant Therapy: A Narrative Review,” Frontiers of Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine, December 2022, from: https://fomm.amegroups.org/article/view/57215/html
Dr. Greg Ayers of ProGrin Dental in South Carolina is an established and highly esteemed cosmetic dentist who has lectured at premier dental institutions across America as well provides cosmetic dentistry to Hollywood stars and professional athletes. Dr. Ayers maintains dental practices in six locations across South Carolina.