Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, bite and smile as well as improving overall oral health. Here is a guide to cosmetic dentistry procedures and their benefits.
Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. It involves bleaching the teeth to remove stains and discolourations caused by smoking, drinking coffee, tea, red wine or ageing. Teeth whitening can be achieved in the dental office or at home using custom-made trays.
Dental veneers and caps
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. They can correct teeth that are chipped, stained, misaligned or have gaps. Caps cover the whole tooth and are best for underlying structural damage. A cap is generally twice as thick as a veneer.
Dental bonding
Bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the tooth and hardened with a special light. This can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked or discoloured.
Aligner systems
Invisalign, SmileStyler and ClearCorrect are clear aligner systems used to straighten crooked teeth or correct bite issues. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and are virtually invisible.
Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. They are a permanent solution to missing teeth and can help to retain a person’s natural face shape and smile.
Gum contouring
When the gums cover too much of the teeth, gum contouring can reshape the gum line to improve the appearance of a person’s smile.
Dental crowns and bridges
Crowns are custom-made caps that are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their appearance and function. Bridges, on the other hand, function as a connection between two teeth that are separated by a missing tooth gap. This can reduce the chances of teeth shifting out of place and reduce the chance of gum disease.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment can correct misaligned teeth and bite issues, which can improve the appearance of the smile and also prevent structural dental problems.
Cosmetic dentistry procedures can have many benefits, including improved self-esteem, better oral health and a more youthful appearance. Consult with your dentist to determine which cosmetic dental procedures are right for you.
At TLC Dental, we have been treating patients with tender loving care for more than 28 years. If you’re looking to enhance your smile or improve your oral health through cosmetic dentistry procedures, you can trust TLC Dental to provide you with expert dental care that meets your needs. Book an appointment with us today and let our friendly TLC dentists give you the smile you’ve always wanted!
