Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments: What You Need to Know
Cosmetic Dentistry refers to the dental processes which are used by dentists in order to enhance the appearance and sometimes also the health of teeth. As the name indicates, these processes are mainly for cosmetic purposes. However, these can offer plenty of benefits to people, such as reducing grinding of teeth (bruxism), making it easier to clean the teeth and boosting the confidence of patients. If you wish to know about the different types of treatment methods used in cosmetic dentistry, read on and find out.
Orthodontics
It is used to straighten the teeth or correcting or even preventing some irregularities of the tooth. In this method, special devices known as aligners or braces are set on the teeth of patients in order to straighten them or correct the abnormalities.
Whitening Treatments
The main aim of these treatment methods is to make the teeth whiter and look better in appearance. From simple bleaching to sophisticated laser treatments, there are various kinds of techniques for teeth whitening which can lighten the color of teeth by a maximum of 16 shades.
Inlays or Onlays
Inlays or Onlays of porcelain are generally used in order to straighten the teeth, reduce unconscious grinding and improve the bite of patients. Although this type of cosmetic technique is not the only method for treatment, it is often able to put an end to bruxism (teeth grinding).
Veneers
These are porcelain shells of thin shapes which are bonded to the tooth front. This is frequently done in those cases in which a cluster of teeth or a single tooth is found to be more discolored as compared to others. Over a period of time, these have been improved in appearance and can look as normal as actual teeth. This method needs dentists to shave off a tooth section. However, when the porcelain shell wears away, the veneer needs repair or replacement.
Implants
These are used to replace teeth or as substitutes for missing tooth. A single tooth or multiple teeth may need to be replaced due to age or injury or in acute cases of dental decay. Over the years, there has been an improvement in implant technology. Today, false teeth looks as normal as the rest of the teeth.
Bridges and Crowns
These are not entirely cosmetic. Bridges are able to fill up the spaces within bigger gaps. Without straightening or replacing, these are able to enhance teeth appearance. Crowns, similarly, help repair or cover cracked or chipped teeth.
