Cosmetic Dentistry: A List of 4 Primary Categories

Cosmetic dentistry basically refers to a variety of dental works that improves the form and appearance of a person’s teeth, gums or smile. Here is a short list of some of the cosmetic dental procedures available: 1. Addition of dental material to either of the teeth or the gums; like bonding, porcelain veneers, gum grafts and crown or cap.

a.Bonding is the application of enamel-like dental composite added to the tooth’s surface, hardened and sculpted into a natural shape. It is then polished for a more natural finish. b.While veneers are ultra-thin, custom made porcelain laminates that are applied directly to the surface of the teeth to close obvious gaps and to cover yellowish or discolored teeth. c.Gum grafting is another dental procedure that corrects a “gummy smile” by raising and sculpting the gum line. The technique tends to alter the tissue and the underlying bones creating the appearance of a more symmetrical teeth line.

2. Removal of tooth structure by enameloplasty and gingivectomy. Gingivectomy is performed using electro surgery to eradicate undesired gum tissue. Many cosmetic dentists are now using dental lasers to remove the excess gum tissue. 3. Removing of dental materials: – examples of which are teeth whitening, bleaching and tooth extractions.

a.Teeth whitening systems come in many forms today. Over the counter rinses, whitening strips and whitening gels can be purchased in a pharmacy section of grocery stores and the treatment can be administered from the comfort of your own home. In Office whitening systems involve a bleaching process and provide the quickest remedy for yellowing teeth. b.Tooth extractions are mostly performed to treat infection, gum disease or dry sockets. On occasion tooth extractions are done to prepare a crowded mouth for some orthodontia work.

4. Correction and straightening of teeth – Much of this work is done by an Orthodontist. Its goal is to correct the teeth and jaw position. The misalignment of teeth can cause multiple cosmetic problems for patients so they are better addressed in the teen years. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean and there can be a higher risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease. This can even lead to TMJ syndrome, neck shoulder and chronic back pain if not given attention. These are the varieties of orthodontic problems:

a.)Overbite or the buck teeth – upper front teeth stick out too far forward over the lower teeth b.)Under bite: – opposite of the previous where the lower sticks too far forward than the upper front teeth c.)Misplaced midline – where the center of the upper front teeth does not line up slightly with the lower front teeth d.)Spacing – evident gaps or space between the teeth resulting from missing or lost teeth e.)Crowding- too many teeth for the dental ridge to accommodate

One of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures today are dental implants where it is considered more convenient than dentures. Dentures on one hand have a tendency to bring discomfort to the wearer; chewing and laughing may cause it to fall off leaving the individual. More and more aesthetic dentists in Phila suggest dental implants As a more permanent solution to missing or broken teeth. Patients should consult a reliable oral surgeon in Philadelphia that has undergone extensive training and is considered a dental implant specialist. Those seeking cosmetic dental surgery in Bucks County have an abundance of options and can even seek out a dental practice in NE Philadelphia since the regions are so close. Sometimes, there are cases where there isn’t enough bone surface for the dental implant and there may be a need for bone grafting by a Montgomery County dental surgeon.