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What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

by | Apr 25, 2014

Ever really wondered what exactly Cosmetic Dentistry is?

It 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. There are two dental specialties that predominantly focus on dental esthetics/cosmetics: Prosthodontics and Orthodontics. Commonly, cosmetic dentistry is used to treat:
  • the addition of a dental material to teeth or gums
  • the removal of tooth structure or gums
  • neither adding nor removing dental materials, tooth structure, or gums
  • straightening of teeth accompanied by improvement in appearance of face

What issues can benefit from Cosmetic Dentistry?

A variety of issues can be treated through this form of dentistry, and some examples include:

Teeth Whitening

The most common cosmetic dental procedure, it provides a variety of whitening options such as over the counter products and dentist-supervised treatments.

Tooth Reshaping

A process in which the dentist removes parts of the enamel to improve the overall 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.

Teeth Bonding

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

Porcelain Veneers

A treatment where ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates are bonded directly to the teeth, to help with issues such as: closing gaps or disguising discoloured teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. Each case is different, and some potentially require tooth reduction.

Dental Bridges

Treatment in the creation of 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.

Why Choose Dr. Lowe as your Cosmetic Dentist?

Dr. Lowe and his team of talented Cosmetic Dentists can transform anyone’s smile into the bright beautiful smile they have always dreamed of. That’s why they call him the Smile Dentist! Cosmetic Dentistry is about choices! Yet choosing the right cosmetic dental treatment plan for you requires experience and passion. Watch the video and get to know Dr. Lowe more!

Call Dr. Lowe’s office today to inquire about Cosmetic Dentistry and your options!