A cosmetic dentist specializes in the art and science of enhancing the appearance of your teeth, gums and smile. This includes procedures such as veneers, dental implants, tooth whitening and orthodontic treatment.
If you are self-conscious about the way your teeth look, a cosmetic dentist can make a huge difference for you. By choosing a cosmetic dentist, you can have a smile that will make you proud to show off to your friends and family.
How is a Cosmetic Dentist Different from a General Dentist?
Typically, general dentists receive training in all aspects of dentistry while specialist dental practitioners specialise in specific areas, such as oral maxillofacial surgery (tooth removal, jaw surgery or implants). The work done by these specialists will often involve cosmetic treatments such as veneers and whitening.
It is essential to find a cosmetic dentist with sensitivity to aesthetics, who can deliver the results you want and provide all of the necessary services required for your oral health. A good way to find this type of doctor is by looking at their work, asking for references and searching online.
In the US, a dentist may be called a cosmetic dentist or a restorative dentist. A cosmetic dentist focuses on the overall appearance of your mouth, while a restorative dentist focuses on the functional health of your teeth and gums.
When you need a cosmetic dental procedure, your dentist will explain to you what can and can’t be done to improve the look of your smile. This is important, as it will help you decide which procedure or combination of procedures is right for you.
Common Procedures in Cosmetic Dentistry
There are many different types of cosmetic procedures available, ranging from simple and straightforward to complex and invasive. These can be performed in the comfort of our office or at a specialized lab. The procedure you choose should be based on the goals you have for your smile and your budget.
Teeth Whitening: This is one of the most popular procedures for improving your smile. It can dramatically brighten your teeth and reduce stains.
Tooth-Colored Fillings: These are made of a composite resin, rather than metal. They can be shaded to match your natural tooth color and are a more discreet option than metal fillings.
Gum Contouring: This is a minor cosmetic procedure that can be performed to alter the shape of your gums and improve the appearance of your smile.
Veneers: These are made of porcelain or resin and can be designed to correct the appearance of gaps between your teeth, discoloration or chipped teeth, etc.
Porcelain veneers can be made to fit any size of tooth, including a small gap or irregularly shaped teeth. They are very durable and can be used to change the shape of a tooth, making it more uniform.
A cosmetic dentist can also help you improve the shape of your lips, which can give a more youthful look to your face. They can also use a special technique to remove excess gum tissue for a more attractive look.
