A cosmetic dentist specializes in improving the appearance of a patient’s teeth, gums, and smile. While general dentistry focuses on oral hygiene, disease prevention, and treatment, cosmetic dentistry emphasizes aesthetics. Here are some of the common procedures that cosmetic dentists perform:
Teeth Whitening:
Bleaching teeth to remove stains and discoloration.
Veneers:
Thin shells of porcelain or composite resin placed over the front surface of teeth to correct imperfections like chips, gaps, or misaligned teeth.
Dental Bonding:
Using tooth-colored resin to repair chips, cracks, or gaps.
Dental Implants:
Replacing missing teeth with artificial teeth that look natural.
Inlays and Onlays:
Indirect fillings made from porcelain or composite materials used to repair decayed or damaged teeth.
Crowns:
Caps placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their appearance and function.
Orthodontics (Cosmetic):
Clear aligners or braces to correct misaligned teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Gum Reshaping:
Recontouring the gum line to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
Tooth Contouring and Reshaping:
Minor adjustments to the shape of the teeth to improve symmetry and appearance.
The goal of a cosmetic dentist is to enhance the patient’s smile while maintaining the health and functionality of their teeth and gums.