When you hear the words “cosmetic dentistry”, do you think of caps, crowns, and teeth whitening? How about dental implants? Cosmetic dentistry includes all these things, and much more.
A Little History
Dental cosmetic procedures have been around for centuries. Of course, tooth replacement back in the year 1400 was primitive, consisting of teeth made from animal bones and ivory. By the 1700’s they were using human teeth. In the 1800’s porcelain dentures were typical, and barbers performed dental procedures, including teeth whitening. Dental cosmetic techniques improved throughout the 20th century, and today cosmetic dentists use state of the art equipment and procedures to help patients achieve beautiful, lasting results.
Change your smile, change your life.
Cosmetic dentistry definitely improves the way your teeth look, and can improve your dental health as well. Let’s explore some of the most popular procedures.
Dental Implants
Due to a 98% success rate, dental implants are becoming increasingly popular. Unlike dentures or bridges that are removable, dental implants are planted in your jawbone where teeth are missing. A titanium post serves as the root for the implant and a connector post, or abutment, is attached to hold the crown.
Anyone who is generally healthy and has recently lost a tooth, or several teeth due to trauma or extraction, is a good candidate for dental implants.
It takes several weeks to complete the procedure, but the results are incomparable to any other type of tooth replacement. Patients love dental implants because they are designed to match and function just like your real teeth, and no one can tell the difference.
Crowns and Bridges
Dental crowns are commonly used to repair teeth that are damaged or chipped, but are still intact. Dental crowns are typically made of porcelain and metal, and they are cemented over the damaged tooth. Crowns are made to match the color of your natural teeth, and they are a long lasting solution for chipped and damaged teeth. Crowns may also be used to support dental bridges that are designed to replace missing teeth.
Dentures
Dentures are an affordable option to replace several missing teeth. Partial dentures can be created to replace just a few missing teeth, and full dentures are used to replace all upper or lower teeth. Dentures are removable, and with today’s technology, they look natural and function well.
Another type of denture is called an overdenture. As the name implies, an overdenture is placed over and anchored to a few existing teeth or implants, keeping them securely in place. Because they are anchored, overdentures are a more stable solution for tooth replacement than removable dentures, and they look like real teeth. A beautiful smile helps you look and feel younger.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a simple procedure frequently performed by cosmetic dentists. The results can whiten your teeth by up to ten shades in just one hour, and the procedure is customized for each patient. Professional teeth whitening is a fast, safe and easy way to brighten your smile.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a great way to repair chipped, misshapen, or widely spaced teeth. An affordable procedure, cosmetic bonding can be completed in just one appointment and renders beautiful results. Cosmetic dentistry procedures can benefit everyone! Whether old or young, there may be a time when you’ll need a cosmetic dentist to repair a dental problem, or just to improve your smile.
Watkin Dental Associates is a full service, family dental practice. They specialize in all dental cosmetic procedures, including orthodontics, with weekend hours available for your convenience.
Most insurance is accepted, and you’ll have access to all dental specialists in one convenient location. To make an appointment or for more information, please contact us today!