How a Cosmetic Dentist Tackles Common Dental Problems

Mar 28
07:31

2012

Aloysius Aucoin

Aloysius Aucoin

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Cosmetic dentistry is self-explanatory- it focuses on improving the appearance of teeth. There are a few common issues that have simple solutions that a certified dentist can provide, including whitening, veneers, bonding and implants.

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Cosmetic dentistry isn't particularly new,How a Cosmetic Dentist Tackles Common Dental Problems Articles but modern techniques and materials have allowed cosmetic dentists to provide better results than ever. Not everyone has great teeth- and that's okay! What's great is that there are so many options to choose from for those who want to see a change.

If you're considering changing the way your smile looks, you may consider setting up a consultation or doing some research on your own. We've identified some common challenges and solutions. These will give you an idea of what a cosmetic dentist can offer you, but note that each situation is unique and handled differently.

Discoloration is an extremely common problem. There are different reasons for off-color teeth, ranging from coffee consumption to medications to the natural aging process. Superficial stains can usually be treated with in-office procedure or take-home kits.

For deeper discoloration problems, such as medication-induced yellowing or post-root canal darkening, patients may need veneers or crowns. Veneers can be made of composite resin, a lower-end option, or porcelain. A professional can identify the type and cause of discoloration and advise the best ways to correct the issue. Speaking of whitening, did you know that fillings now come in natural colors? You don't have to settle for flashy metallic fillings anymore!

Spacing and shape are also common issues. For those who have straight but small teeth, a cosmetic dentist may suggest bonding or veneers. Bonding uses a composite material to sculpt a tooth (or set of teeth) to your liking. Veneers are similar, but are pre-made "shells" that are applied directly to teeth.

Another concern is missing teeth. Patients may require tooth implants for a variety of reasons. Some have them knocked out during sports, while others lose teeth due to poor dental hygiene or medical conditions. Having a full set of teeth is an important part of your oral health. Without a full set of teeth, the remaining teeth may shift and a patient's eating and speaking habits may be affected. This is a more serious procedure; many patients choose local anesthesia or sedation, and the procedure itself is rather invasive.

For those who've chosen to go ahead with a procedure, make sure you talk to your chosen provider about the care of your new teeth. Physical alterations are an investment, and should be taken care of as such! Especially for those with veneers, bonding or crowns, it's important to find out which products work best with these materials. For example, some whitening treatments are not appropriate for teeth that have undergone these types of procedures.

At your consultation, discuss whether there are any larger concerns you need to tackle before going forward. This will help your overall oral health and ensures that your new teeth have a healthy home. For example, patients with uneven teeth may need to have their teeth straightened by an orthodontist before proceeding. Go into a consultation with a budget in mind and a general idea of available options. Communication and a little research will put you on the right track to a brighter smile and a great cosmetic dentist!