Almost anyone can benefit from the numerous cosmetic dental procedures available today. These include teeth whitening, veneers, composite bonding, and gum contouring.
While general dentistry focuses on the treatment of oral ailments, cosmetic dentistry primarily improves the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dental work is elective and not covered by insurance; however, it can save you money in the long run by preventing future complications with your bite or tooth structure. Contact Cosmetic Dentistry Las Vegas now!
Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping and tissue sculpting, is an innovative cosmetic dental procedure that addresses the shape and health of your smile. It is a non-invasive treatment that uses manual tools or lasers to trim away excess gum tissue and resculpt the gum line. It is an excellent solution for people with a “gummy” smile or receding gums.
A dentist performs the procedure in his or her office, and it typically takes one to two hours from start to finish. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to prevent any discomfort. He or she may use a scalpel, radiosurgery, or a laser to remove and reshape the gum tissue. The dentist will then re-contour the gum line to expose more of your teeth, creating a more balanced and proportional aesthetic.
Once the procedure is completed, your mouth will likely feel a little sore. Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate any discomfort. During recovery, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and eat soft foods. You should also brush and floss gently, avoiding anything with seeds or abrasive textures.
For optimal results, gum contouring can be combined with other cosmetic treatments. Many patients find that their new, symmetrical gum lines enhance their smile and improve their self-esteem. They also tend to have better oral health and experience reduced pain from chewing.
The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment is to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist. The doctor will assess your needs and create a customized plan to meet your goals.
A qualified cosmetic dentist should have extensive training in the field. He or she should be able to answer your questions and describe the benefits of the procedure in detail. You should always choose a doctor who is licensed and insured to ensure your safety. It is also important to do your research to find a dentist who has a strong track record in the field. Ask to see photos of previous clients and read reviews. You can also ask for a referral from a trusted colleague.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures used to fix a variety of issues. This treatment involves a dentist applying tooth-coloured resin to teeth to repair or reshape them, often with minimal anesthesia required. It’s also a quick and cost-effective solution, often needing just one appointment to be completed.
Prior to undergoing bonding, your dentist will sit down with you and discuss your cosmetic goals before taking dental X-rays and conducting an examination of your teeth and gums to ensure that you’re a suitable candidate. Those with severe tooth decay or gum disease will be advised to undergo alternative dental treatments before proceeding.
Once you’ve been approved for bonding, your dentist will roughen the surface of your teeth and apply a conditioning liquid to help the resin stick to the tooth. Once this has been done, the composite material will be applied to your tooth and shaped until you and your dentist are happy with its appearance. Finally, the composite will be hardened using curing light.
In addition to filling in and reshaping teeth, bonding can be used to correct chipped or broken teeth. It’s especially useful for those with cracked teeth that don’t require a crown, as the composite can be moulded to fit the tooth and provide structural support. It’s also an effective solution for covering exposed tooth roots, preventing them from becoming more sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks.
Although it doesn’t have the same longevity as a whitening procedure, composite bonding can last up to five years if it is properly cared for. This includes brushing teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and avoiding high-staining foods and drinks. You should also avoid biting nails and using your teeth to open packages or bottles, as these can cause damage to the composite bonding. A dental cleaning will be required to restore the integrity of your tooth after having bonding, and it’s also a good idea to schedule an annual check-up to ensure that everything is in order.
Teeth whitening
A good-looking smile can boost your confidence in social situations, and cosmetic dentistry treatments are now more affordable than ever. Some of these procedures, like teeth whitening, are purely cosmetic, but others, such as dental veneers and dental bonding, can improve your oral health and function. If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, it’s important to talk to your dentist to understand your options.
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures and can significantly brighten your smile. It’s usually performed in-office and takes one to three hours, including preparation time. The procedure involves coating the teeth with a bleaching gel, which penetrates the enamel and dentin layers to deactivate and remove stain-causing molecules. Afterwards, the gel is rinsed off and the tooth enamel is polished to reveal the whiter, brighter surface.
The aging process, smoking, and eating foods and beverages that stain the teeth are common causes of discoloration. These factors can make your teeth appear yellow, brown, or even gray. A professional whitening can address these issues and restore your smile to its original, youthful appearance.
If you have a dental insurance plan, you may be able to use it to pay for some of your cosmetic dentistry treatment. Most insurance plans cover preventive care and basic services, such as cleanings and X-rays. Some plans also cover some restorative treatments, such as dental crowns and bridges, which can protect your oral health. You can also ask your dentist to see if they offer payment plans, which are an option for those with limited financial resources.
Whether your cosmetic dentistry treatments are covered or not, it’s still essential to keep up with regular dental visits and practice healthy dental hygiene at home between appointments. This will help ensure that your dental work is long-lasting and effective.
Although many people believe that cosmetic dentistry is not an actual field of dentistry, it actually requires the same skills as general dentistry does. In addition to treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth, cosmetic dentists must be skilled in sculpting the mouth’s shape and structure. They must also be able to provide patients with realistic expectations for their results.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin-based composite material that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can be used to correct a wide range of cosmetic issues, including discoloration, crooked teeth, small gaps, swollen gums and minor chips. They are a popular option for patients who want to improve their smile without the time and expense of major dental work.
During the initial appointment, your dentist trims about half of a millimeter from the surface of each tooth to make room for the veneer and to ensure that they fit well. They also take a mold or impression of your teeth and decide on the veneer color to best match your natural tooth shade.
Once your veneers are ready, the dentist will evaluate them for shape, fit, and color, and make any adjustments needed. Then, the veneers are attached using a special cement. A light is then used to harden the bond. Afterward, the dentist will remove any excess cement and make final adjustments.
Porcelain veneers are the most common, but there are other options as well. These include composite resin, which is less expensive than porcelain. However, it does not last as long as porcelain, and it may need to be replaced more frequently.
Veneers are typically considered a cosmetic procedure, and they are not covered by dental insurance. Unlike dental crowns, they do not strengthen or protect your natural tooth, so it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene to avoid complications. In addition to brushing and flossing, you should avoid drinking dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, soda, red wine and tobacco. You should also use a toothpaste with fluoride, which can help prevent decay and protect your enamel. It is also important to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. If you notice that a veneer feels loose, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Loose veneers can cause pain, and they are a breeding ground for bacteria.
