A Guide To Cosmetic Dentistry

In recent years new dental cosmetic treatment options have become available.

Among the many dental cosmetic treatment options are porcelain veneers, tooth whitening, tooth shaping, braces, and several others.

Veneers

Porcelain Veneers or Veneers as they are commonly called are customized thin porcelain which a cosmetic dentist uses to cover the front of the tooth so as to alter the appearance of the tooth and to repair damage.

Veneers are used to close spaces between teeth, whiten discolored or stained teeth, repair chips, including other flaws. In this procedure which lasts between one to two hours, your San Diego cosmetic dentist will remove a thin amount of your tooth’s enamel. After this an impression of your mouth is done by the dentist. Then you’re given temporary veneers to wear until the permanent ones are made.

The veneers are made at the laboratory and within two weeks your dentist can attach your veneers to the front of your tooth. The result is an improved smile.

Tooth Whitening

In tooth whitening peroxide-based materials are used to whiten teeth. Tooth whitening can be done in the office or at home by your San Diego cosmetic dentist. The technique cannot be done if you have cavities or if your gum is unhealthy. In at- home, the procedure should be done under the supervision of your dentist.

Tooth-Shaping

Tooth shaping is the most affordable cosmetic dentistry technique. It consists of the removal 1-2 millimeters of the tooth’s enamel. The technique can make long teeth short, and remove the tips of pointed teeth, thereby creating an attractive smile. It’s a quick and painless half an hour procedure. If sensitivity occurs after tooth shaping, your dentist in San Diego can prescribe a fluoride or use in-office desensitizers.

Resin or Tooth Colored Fillings

Resin fillings are also called bonding, composite or white fillings or bonding. Resin is used by a cosmetic dentist to fill tiny cavities or chips in front teeth. Cosmetic dentistry prices vary for different techniques but resin is among the more affordable cosmetic dentistry techniques. Although resin can be substituted for porcelain veneers it is not as durable. Due to its tendency to get discolored as time progresses, repairs are required over time. The procedure normally takes an hour to be completed in our Mesa Family Dental office.

Bonded-Bridge

A bonded-bridge is used to replace a missing tooth in less time and for less money than an implant or porcelain bridge. A bonded-bridge is really a porcelain or resin tooth having metal wings on either side.

It’s perfect for a missing front tooth. In this technique, a small portion of the teeth on either side of the missing one is removed and then an impression is taken. Bonded bridge is made at the laboratory and fitted in the place of the missing tooth. The process can be completed in 30 minutes.

Gum-lifts

Gum-lift (gingivectomy) is removing excessive gum to even the gum line and make the teeth look longer. A cosmetic dentist will numb the area and remove the extra gum thereby correcting your gummy smile.

Patients are advised to use a recommended antiseptic on a Q-tip and put some upward pressure to the gums during the healing period. It’s best to get a cosmetic dentist, who is experienced in the technique

who will remove the right amount of gum. Although the procedure last for about 30 minutes and is painless. You may experience slight discomfort after day 1 and 2 of the procedure.

Braces

Braces or Orthodontics are worn by adults and children to straighten crooked teeth. The procedure can be uncomfortable. Treatment lasts for 8-12 months and this includes many visits to your San Diego cosmetic dentist. It is a costly procedure but will improve the appearance of your face eventually.

Mesa Family Dental has trained and experienced cosmetic dentists. Remember to ask your dentist questions about the outcome of the techniques.