Cosmetic dentistry is aimed at enhancing your smile and creating a positive change in your teeth. It is believed that esthetic dentistry can positively affect your overall oral health. Smile enhancement can boost your self-esteem and improve your appearance. Cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective, and insurance won’t cover the cost unless it is done to restore tooth structure. There are several options available to help you improve the look of your smile.
Inlays and Onlays
Also known as indirect fillings, inlays and onlays are made in a laboratory for teeth that have decayed. It’s a necessary procedure if there is not enough tooth structure that will support a filling. Your dentist will place the inlay on the surface of the tooth. If your teeth are severely damaged, an only will be used to cover the entire tooth’s surface. Inlays and onlays are made from composite resin material and are attached with adhesive dental cement. They help strengthen your natural teeth and prevent further deterioration.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding repairs damaged or discolored teeth using a material that resembles the color of your natural tooth enamel. It is one of the least expensive procedures to repair chipped or cracked teeth. It can also be done to close gaps in between teeth, or to change the shape and color. Tooth-colored resin materials are adhered to the teeth using a curing light.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made shells made of tooth-colored materials that look entirely realistic to natural teeth. They are bonded directly to the front of the tooth to fix abnormally spaced, chipped, uneven, discolored, or misaligned teeth. Porcelain veneers are stain resistant and do not require extensive shaping procedures.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening procedures can be performed in your dentist’s office or at home. Bleaching is done to achieve several shades lighter than your original tooth color. Your dentist custom molds a mouthpiece tray to fit the exact impression of your teeth. A bleaching gel is applied to the tray and left in your mouth for about an hour. Multiple applications may be required depending on the level of discoloration of your teeth. Tooth discoloration is usually caused by food, drinks, medication, and smoking.
