Smile Makeover
Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized area of dentistry that focuses on the appearance of the smile and mouth. Unlike standard dentistry, which focuses on the health of the teeth and gums, cosmetic dentists work almost exclusively on enhancing the patient's smile. Procedures such as porcelain veneers, dental implants, teeth whitening and/or dental braces are used to improve the smile.
Find a Cosmetic Dentistry Specialist
Many cities and towns have very talented cosmetic dentistry specialists who are able to beautify the smile and create long lasting results. To find these cosmetic dentistry specialists, you can use the directory provided in the Consumer Guide to Dentistry.
Steps Prior to Cosmetic Dentistry
Before cosmetic dentistry can be performed, the teeth must be examined to ensure optimal health and functionality. Common conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease (periodontal disease) and dental plaque must be dealt with prior to cosmetic treatment.
In some cases, malocclusion can occur, causing bite problems, teeth grinding, headaches or jaw pain. The most experienced and highly skilled cosmetic dentists always ensure these types of problems are eliminated before working to perfect the smile. For example, it does little good to place porcelain veneers over chipped or cracked teeth for a person who is constantly grinding his or her teeth. The patient will simply grind down and chip the veneers, just as he or she has done for the natural teeth. Once the tooth grinding is eliminated or reduced through bite adjustment, then the cosmetic dentistry procedures can provide a more permanent change to the smile. Similarly, if teeth misalignment has occurred due to the loss of a tooth or teeth, then orthodontics work alone provides minimal long-term benefit. Once the dental braces are removed, the teeth may return to the incorrect position. In such cases, a dental implant or a bridge may be necessary to fill the gaps where teeth have been lost, in order to maintain a permanent change to the teeth alignment.
Cosmetic Dentistry Directory
Highly skilled cosmetic dentists practice in many areas of the country. Since comprehensive cosmetic dentistry work often requires more than one visit to the dentist office, you may want to consider selecting a skilled cosmetic dentist whose office is in close proximity to your work or home. To find cosmetic dentists in your area, use the cosmetic dentistry directory.
Smile Makeover
A popular term often used to describe cosmetic dentistry is "smile makeover." During a smile makeover, the cosmetic dentist uses a wide range of the available procedures and technologies to create a beautiful and natural smile, often transforming a person's facial balance and symmetry.
To learn more about cosmetic dentist and cosmetic dentists, visit this page in MediaFact.