Cosmetic Dentistry Las Vegas focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and the smile. While all dentists are able to perform basic restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns, cosmetic dentists have additional training in this field.
This extra training means they have extensive experience in these procedures, deep technical knowledge and a refined artistic touch. Cosmetic procedures can fix issues like misaligned or discolored teeth and reshape the overall smile.
With a plethora of whitening products available, it is no wonder that teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. Also known as bleaching, this treatment can lighten discoloration and staining of teeth due to the consumption of food and drinks such as coffee, red wine and tea. It can be performed either at a dentist’s office or with an at-home kit. During the whitening process, the dentist would apply a whitening product on the front of the teeth, typically using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Then a lamp or laser is used to activate the whitening agent. The dentist may need to repeat this procedure over a few weeks until the desired shade is achieved.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists (AACD) notes that teeth whitening is an example of a non-invasive cosmetic dental procedure that enhances smile appearance, but does not affect oral health. However, some cosmetic procedures can improve health such as dental implants that replace missing teeth and prevent bone loss or straightening procedures like Invisalign that make it easier to practice good oral hygiene.
Aesthetic dentistry can have a huge impact on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence, leading to improved relationships in personal and professional life. While cosmetic procedures tend to be more expensive than routine dental work, they can provide a significant return on investment. To get the best results from cosmetic dentistry, be sure to find a qualified practitioner with experience in the procedure you are seeking, and maintain proper oral care between visits to keep your new smile looking its very best. Then enjoy your beautiful, bright smile!
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers, also known as dental porcelain laminates, are wafer-thin custom-made shells that cover the front surface of a tooth to change its appearance. They are often used to correct cosmetic flaws that can be difficult or impossible to fix with other dental procedures. These include chipped teeth, discolored teeth, and gaps or spaces between teeth. Dental veneers can be made of either porcelain or resin composite materials.
Porcelain is usually considered the preferred material for veneers because it looks more natural and resists staining better than the other option. Veneers are bonded to the front of the tooth, which means that your dentist will need to remove some of the natural enamel in order to attach the veneers. This can make the procedure a little more invasive than if it were being done just to whiten the teeth.
Veneers are a permanent treatment, so once they are put on the teeth, they will not come off. This makes them a good choice for people who want to improve the look of their smile, but do not want to commit to a more involved or lengthy cosmetic dentistry procedure. Another advantage of veneers is that they can be applied in a relatively short amount of time compared to other treatments.
Because the dentist will need to shave some of the enamel in order to attach the veneers, this is not an ideal treatment for people with weak or sensitive teeth. Once the veneers are in place, they will need to be treated gently, as abrasive foods and hard brushing can damage them. Your dentist will likely recommend that you avoid eating these types of foods for a week or two after the procedure to protect the veneers.
Bonding
The term “bonding,” or any cosmetic dentistry procedure, refers to any dental work that improves the appearance (but not necessarily the function) of your teeth and smile. This includes teeth whitening, dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and other procedures that alter the size, shape, color, length, alignment or overall appearance of your smile. These treatments are generally not covered by insurance, but some dentists offer them as part of a package of services referred to as cosmetic dentistry.
A cosmetic dentist can fix minor problems like crooked teeth, chips, cracks, or small gaps between teeth. They may also provide an alternative to, or a replacement for, silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composite resin. This is a quick and inexpensive way to repair teeth with minor cosmetic damage.
Another option for fixing a chipped, cracked or misshapen tooth is to have your cosmetic dentist apply an indirect filling using an inlay or onlay. These are designed to preserve more of the original tooth than a regular filling, and can help prevent future decay.
While a general dentist provides many important preventative and restorative care treatments, they do not have the training or expertise to perform specialized procedures such as dental implants or gum disease treatment. This is why a general dentist should only perform basic cosmetic dental work, while a specialist should address more complex or serious issues.
Dental Implants
If you’re considering dental implants, or any cosmetic dentistry procedure, be sure to talk to your dentist. They will be able to help you determine if the treatment is right for you and create a plan to ensure your success. You’ll also need to continue your routine care with regular checkups and cleanings, and practicing good oral hygiene at home.
While restorative dentistry is concerned with the overall health of teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry is more focused on a patient’s smile. Often, cosmetic procedures are used to complement restorative treatments or help patients achieve the smile they have always wanted.
Many general dentists are capable of performing cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening or veneers. However, some have a greater interest in these areas and have additional training. There is no such thing as a specialist “cosmetic dentist” and dentists who advertise themselves as such may not have additional training or qualifications.
Cosmetic dentistry procedures can be expensive, so it’s important to discuss your options and expectations with your dentist before beginning any treatment. During this process, you should also find out whether the treatment is covered by your insurance and how much it will cost. You’ll need to weigh these factors against the benefits of improving your smile and how it will affect your quality of life.
Ultimately, cosmetic dentistry is about achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile, and it can improve your self-esteem as well. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, contact NYC Smile Design today. We can answer your questions and help you schedule a consultation with one of our expert dentists.
Orthodontics
While general dentistry focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating oral diseases, cosmetic procedures are more concerned with the overall appearance of your teeth. This includes fixing crooked, chipped or misaligned teeth to create a more attractive smile and boost your confidence. Cosmetic dentists are trained to use a wide range of procedures and treatments to give your smile the perfect look.
Some of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. These can correct a number of issues that affect the color, shape, and size of your teeth.
Teeth whitening is a quick and affordable way to brighten your smile. It works by breaking down stains and discoloration on the teeth, making them whiter. It’s a safe and effective procedure that doesn’t damage the tooth enamel.
Porcelain Veneers are used to fix a number of aesthetic problems in the teeth, including chips, broken or worn teeth. They are made from a porcelain material that is fused to metal for strength and durability. This helps them to withstand bite pressure. They are available in various shades to match the natural color of your teeth. They can also be used to cover gaps in your smile.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Dental fillings and other tooth restorations are usually made of a composite resin, rather than the traditional gold or amalgam materials. The composite blends in with the tooth structure and is much more subtle than the metal. These can be shaded to match your natural teeth and look more natural, which is ideal if you have older restorations.
Orthodontics is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that helps to improve your teeth, bite and facial alignment. It can correct crowded, overlapping or protruding teeth, as well as fix an overbite or underbite. This type of treatment can dramatically improve your smile and boost your self-esteem.