Category Archives: Cosmetic Dentistry

5 Ways to Restore Your Smile

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.

The five most used procedures at our practice are:

Cosmetic reshaping

Cosmetic reshaping removes parts of the enamel to improve the appearance of the tooth. It may be used to correct a small chip, or to alter the length, shape or position of teeth; it can be used to correct crooked or excessively long teeth. The removed enamel is irreplaceable, and may sometimes expose dentin. It is also known as enameloplasty, odontoplasty, contouring, recontouring, slenderizing, stripping or sculpting. This procedure offers fast results and can even be a substitute for braces under certain circumstances.

Bonding

Bonding is a process in which an enamel-like dental composite material is applied to a tooth’s surface, sculpted into shape, hardened and then polished.

Whitening

Whitening, or “tooth bleaching”, is the most common cosmetic dental procedure. While many whitening options are now available, including over the counter products, dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

Veneers

Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth. They are an option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. Depending on the procedure, tooth reduction may be necessary.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are false teeth, known as a pontics, which are fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in areas left by missing teeth. Two crowns hold it in place, these are attached to adjacent sides of the false tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out in the same way that partial dentures can. In areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the open space. Bridges can reduce the risk of gum disease, help correct some bite issues and even improve your speech. Bridges require commitment to serious oral hygiene, but may last up to ten years or more.

Finding a Reputable Cosmetic Dentist

Cosmetic dentistry is the union of science and art. Although it has been said that only a few percent of dentists possess both abilities, there are key factors that will enable patients to select a suitable dentist. Celebrity cosmetic dentist Dr. Cary Goldstein lists what to look for:

Reputation of the Doctor

Word of mouth is a very effective tool in choosing a cosmetic dentist. Take your time to research your doctor and be sure to carefully analyze what you find on the web.

The Doctor’s Office

Although the office alone is not substantial enough to determine a doctors abilities, you may find some valuable indications. Consider the following in your search:

Office Decor: They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder; if you hate the decor of the office, you may find that you have differing opinions on what “beauty ” means.

Office Staff: A doctor whose staff are proud to work for him/her is a good sign.

Office Technology: If the office is not using modern technology, you may be missing out on what’s currently available.

Office Location: A cosmetic dentist practicing in a very competitive location will be much more likely to go the extra mile for his/her patient than one who is in a remote  location.

Comprehensive Examination of the Patient’s Mouth

A cosmetic dentist should always perform a comprehensive examination of the mouth before recommending any cosmetic improvements. It is important that he or she cares for the long term health of the mouth over a “quick fix.”

Communication Skills and Bedside Manner of the Doctor

It is of paramount importance to be able to communicate with your cosmetic dentist; find a doctor who is willing to take the time to understand your personality and your expectations. A caring bedside manner is an indication of someone who is interested in your satisfaction.

The Ceramist

A ceramist is a professional who creates the porcelain restorations, be they veneers, crowns or bridges. This individual or team plays a crucial part in the end result of your smile. Be sure to ask about the ceramist and request to see before and after photos that highlight the dentist/ceramist work. A valuable before and after photograph to see is porcelain work that has been placed next to natural teeth.