Although it might seem that there is a dizzying array of cosmetic treatments in dentistry, in fact they all fall neatly into five categories.
First, it is important to understand what cosmetic dentistry is – It is a method of professional oral care focusing on improvements in the appearance of your teeth, mouth, and smile. And even though cosmetic dentistry procedures are often thought of as elective treatments, they often also provide restorative and dental health benefits.
At Smiles Nambour we perform cosmetic procedures from those so simple that they only take one office visit, to those that are more complicated and involve specialized approaches.
For your understanding, here are the five main categories of cosmetic dentistry.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is the repair or reconstruction of decayed, damaged or unpleasant-looking teeth using materials that are similar to the color of your natural tooth enamel. Your dentist drills out the decay and applies composite onto the tooth’s surface. Then, your dentist “sculpts” the composite into the proper shape and cures it with high-intensity light.
Sometimes this process is called “bonding,” but whichever the case this treatment effectively covers tooth damage and restores the look of the original tooth – in many cases the new look improves on the look of the original tooth! Bonding is a relatively inexpensive cosmetic dentistry procedure, making it a good choice for patients with tooth decay, chipped or cracked teeth and worn-down edges.
Dental Veneers
Usually made from medical-grade ceramic, dental veneers are individually created for each patient so that they resemble the patient’s natural teeth. Veneers appear exceptionally realistic and can are used in the case of numerous cosmetic problems, including crooked teeth, cracked or damaged enamel, and noticeable gaps between teeth. Veneers are applied to the front of each tooth using a dental adhesive.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are sometimes called indirect fillings. Unlike bonding, which all takes place in your dentist’s office, inlays and onlays are built in a dental laboratory. Inlays are generally used when a tooth has mild to moderate decay or not enough tooth remains to support a filling. If there is no damage to the tooth cusps (in simpler terms the ’bumps’ on the top of teeth), the inlay is placed directly onto the tooth surface. If the cusp or a substantial portion of the tooth is damaged, though, it is necessary to use an onlay to go over the tooth’s entire surface.
Dental laboratories make inlays and onlays from a composite resin material and they are attached to teeth with adhesive dental cement. Because they provide support to strengthen teeth, restore their shape and avoid any further decay or deterioration, they are both cosmetic and practical treatments!
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is among the most basic cosmetic dentistry procedures. Over time, teeth become stained and worn due to diet, medication, and personal habits including smoking. When this occurs, your Smiles Nambour dentist will recommend whitening.
Professional teeth whitening or teeth bleaching is performed at your dentist’s office, and only after plaque, tartar and other debris are cleaned from the surface of each tooth. Teeth can be bleached to achieve an even lighter shade than their original color!
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a treatment that replaces teeth after they are lost due to accident, extraction, or other cases. Your dentist inserts a small titanium screw into the jaw at the site of the missing tooth. The screw functions as a support for a crown. Once the crown is placed, implants are virtually indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth. Better yet, when the bone and supporting tissues fuse to the implant the implant becomes a permanent part of your mouth, smile, and bite!
During the implant placement period (after screw implantation) patients need to be particularly diligent in their oral hygiene to ensure that food debris and plaque are not allowed to build up in the area.
Cosmetic Dentistry at Smiles Nambour
If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, it’s critical to find a cosmetic dentist who offers the particular treatment you’re interested in. At Smiles Nambour we are happy to sit down with you and talk about any cosmetic treatments you might want or need!
At Smiles Nambour, we provide top-quality cosmetic dentistry with the help of cutting-edge instruments and caring staff!
A visit to Smiles Nambour is an investment in your dental health and attractive smile!
Call us today on (07) 5240 9410 or simply book your appointment online.
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