Cosmetic dentistry can be loosely defined as any dental procedure that focuses on appearance and aesthetics, rather than functionality. It cannot be performed until any existing dental diseases, such as cavities or gum disease, are treated. Once your mouth is healthy, though, cosmetic dentistry can vastly enhance both the look and quality of your teeth. Here is a look at what to expect.
Smile Planning
Cosmetic dentistry starts with a plan. Your dentist will carefully analyze your existing smile, along with photos of any smiles that you particularly admire. Your features will also be considered, including your face shape and symmetry, your eye color, and even your skin tone. With all of this information, as well as a list of the smile issues that you hope to correct, your dentist will create a proposed treatment plan. Many people have multiple procedures performed, and they must be carefully timed to ensure that they work together to create a beautiful smile that truly fits you.
Tooth Whitening
Many dental patients are interested in whiter teeth. Whether you prefer in-office or at-home whitening, new technology can make your teeth look better than ever. The dramatic results can last for years with proper care and occasional touchups. If your teeth are even, well-spaced, and structurally sound, but darkened or stained, this may be all you need for the smile of your dreams.
Dental Veneers
Thin, natural-looking, and highly durable, porcelain dental veneers can cover a wide range of cosmetic problems, from broken or misshapen teeth to dark stains. Depending on the structure of your mouth, dental veneers may even be able to cover small gaps and misaligned teeth. Stain-resistant, long-lasting veneers take just two visits to give you a whole new smile.
Metal Filling Replacement
Although silver-mercury amalgam fillings are still considered safe, they have a number of drawbacks. They do not bond to the tooth as well as modern tooth-colored composite fillings, allowing decay to develop behind them. The gap between filling and tooth also leaves teeth more prone to cracking, and the filling material can block X-rays. In addition, many people dislike the aesthetics of these obviously dark fillings. We can replace your fillings with new fillings that are virtually invisible and provide better dental health.
Invisalign
Billed as “the clear alternative to braces,” Invisalign can straighten your teeth without the discomfort or embarrassment of traditional braces. The clear, smooth, plastic aligners are nearly invisible. They are also removable, allowing you to eat your favorite foods and brush your teeth as normal.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. A biocompatible titanium peg is placed in the jawbone, replacing the tooth root, and then finished with a very realistic looking crown. A single implant can replace a single tooth, two implants can support a bridge that replaces several teeth in a row, and a handful of implants can support an entire arch of replacement teeth. Strong, stable, and comfortable, dental implants are much closer to your natural teeth than even the best dentures. They also prevent the jawbone loss that occurs when tooth roots are removed and not replaced.
Cosmetic dentistry is a wide-ranging field that includes all dental procedures designed to improve the aesthetics of your smile. It can also help to improve the quality of your teeth. Your dentist will work closely with you to design the optimal treatment plan to achieve your goals.
Conveniently located in Woodbury, MN, Creekview Dental provides a progressive yet conservative approach to dental care. Our innovative, highly personalized procedures are focused on maintaining tooth structure and providing you with the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. Call us today at 651-738-8204 to take the first steps on the road to better dental health.
