Cosmetic dentistry is not all about looks and masking or hiding flaws. It may also provide restorative and functional benefits as well. There are a variety of restorative and cosmetic enhancement options available today.

The best way to determine the ideal treatment for you will initially involve a thorough examination and consultation with your dentist to clearly discuss your goals and expectations. Keep in mind, the American Dental Association (ADA) does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty. Therefore, it would be prudent to research a dentist with the knowledge, experience and training who can create the best aesthetic results you desire. It is necessary to explore all options that are suitable for you before proceeding with treatment.

Here is a quick overview of a variety of options:

Bonding
Bonding procedures are commonly performed when repairing chips, broken teeth, gaps or spacing. Bonding uses a tooth colored resin material that is malleable and is shaped and contoured to match the anatomy of surrounding teeth before being set. After setting, it is polished to produce a shine and give the appearance of a natural-looking tooth.

Filling
A filling can be placed using porcelain or composite resin material (as in bonding) to produce a natural-looking tooth.

Whitening
Whitening can be performed at-home or in-office. Whitening enhances the appearance by lightening the color of teeth, creating a brighter, more radiant smile.

Veneers
Veneers are porcelain facings that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. These are placed to repair cracks, chips, discoloration that bonding and whitening cannot correct, and to close gaps and spacing. Veneers are typically more natural looking than bonding and more conservative than crowns.

Crowns
Crowns completely cover the entire tooth. These are typically placed to restore function where lost, usually in the case of a broken tooth or when a tooth already has a large filling and requires a new restoration. Crowns are made with porcelain to give the appearance of a natural-looking tooth.

Braces
Braces serve to correct crowding, spacing, misalignment of the bite or occlusion and assist to correct improper positioning of the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint – TMJ). Braces can be silver (metal) or clear (for a not-so-obvious look). Invisalign® is a relatively new technique that involves wearing clear plastic trays and is virtually “invisible.”

Implants
An implant is an artificial tooth inserted into the bone with a fitted crown. Implants are ideal for replacing a missing or extracted tooth with the most natural appearance and feel.

Protecting Your Dental Investment

A patient’s home care and oral health habits can make a significant difference in the longevity and appearance of dental work. Why not make your dental restorations last as long as possible? There are simple steps that can be taken to greatly reduce the risk of recurring decay, unnecessary wear, staining, chipping and essentially replacing dental work sooner than you imagined:

• Follow your dentist’s and hygienist’s recommendations for regular exams and professional cleaning
• Brush and floss regularly to maintain healthy teeth, gums and dental work
• Incorporate Tongue Cleaning as part of your daily routine to minimize bacteria and bad breath
• Use a soft or Extra-soft Toothbrush to minimize wear on tooth, gums and any exposed root surfaces
• Use home care products that contain safe and effective ingredients (Oxyfresh Antimicrobial Mouthrinse does not use alcohol or dyes)
• Minimize the consumption of stain-causing food and drinks (coffee, tea and red wine)
• Incorporate fluoride in home care

For less than the price of a teeth cleaning, you can purchase everything you need to prevent gum disease and its associated health risks. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you have the potential to create the healthiest mouth you’ve ever had?

For direct links to order these items online, just click on the picture below.

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Anti-Viral Solutions, Choosing a Waterpik, Oxyfresh Mouthrinse, Tongue Scrapers, Toothbrushes, A Note from the Oral Health Coach