The objective of cosmetic dentistry, which is elective dental
work, is to improve the appearance of the teeth and to enhance
one's smile. Cosmetic dentistry does not contribute to the
health of the teeth.
The art and science of dentistry has made advances such that one
need not remain resigned to stained or chipped teeth. There are
several cosmetic techniques available that allow one to correct
dental anomalies that can impair appearance. These include:
Bleaching
The process of bleaching or tooth whitening helps to brighten
teeth that become dark with age or get stained due to smoking,
tea/coffee drinking, etc. Bleaching removes extrinsic as well as
intrinsic stains. The process, which can be carried out once
every three years, is carried out largely by using hydrogen
peroxide solution. Bleaching can whiten teeth by up to 5 times
the original shade. A bleaching tooth tray that carries the
peroxide solution can cost between $ 200 - $ 500.
Bonding
The appearance of teeth that have spaces in between or are
cracked and chipped can be improved by the bonding process in
which a hard, sterile, and inert tooth-colored plastic is
affixed to the teeth. The manner in which bonding is done
affects the shape, size, and appearance of teeth. The composite
fillings wear more quickly than the traditional silver fillings
and patients are usually advised to refrain from hard foods that
may result in the chipping of the bonding material. The bonding
process takes 10-15 minutes for a tooth and can cost around $
300 to $ 700 for a tooth. The bonded restoration stains similar
to natural teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
These are extremely thin shells used to cover the front side of
the teeth. Porcelain veneers are more resistant to stains and
chipping as compared to bonding. They are bonded to the teeth
using a special bonding material and can be used to alter the
appearance of teeth, provide fullness to the upper lips, and
fill gaps between teeth. Porcelain veneers enable a more
consistent appearance as compared to bonding, they do not stain
and a veneer treatment can last for up to 15 years. Veneer
application on a single tooth can cost up to $ 2,000. As
compared to the application of crowns or caps, teeth are ground
to a lesser extent during veneer treatment.
Orthodontics and periodontics
Orthodontics deals with the prevention and treatment of dental
and facial irregularities. Braces are used in orthodontics for
the treatment of crooked teeth, protruding teeth, widely spaced
teeth, an underbite, etc. Metal braces made from titanium are
expensive and need to be worn for 2-3 years. Non-invasive
straightening braces cost less and require to be worn for a
lesser period of time. Lingual braces are placed behind the
teeth and are ideal for those who lay emphasis on cosmetic
appeal. Periodontics helps individuals to enhance their smile by
altering the contours of the gums, it is a simple surgical
process accomplished using laser and can cost up to $ 2,000.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are used for broken teeth, teeth with silver
filling or those with excessive decay, and also teeth that have
undergone root canal treatment. Crowns can be matched to tooth
color.
About the author:
Mary Logden recommends that you visit Dr. Andrea Ubhi's web site
for more information on
cosmetic dentistry.
