Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Modern dentistry goes far beyond restorative work such as fillings, crowns, and root canals. Cosmetic dentistry is designed to make aesthetic corrections and adjustments, giving you the opportunity to have the smile of your dreams. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

While general dentists work on preventative and restorative dental treatments, cosmetic dentists work with their patients to help them achieve a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Your smile is likely to be one of the first things that others notice about you. For many people, a beautiful smile can be a key factor in developing strong self-confidence and the ability to fully enjoy social situations such as weddings, birthday parties, and work events.

For those who struggle with the appearance of their teeth, events such as these can be daunting; it can be difficult to enjoy yourself or feel confident when you aren’t quite comfortable with the appearance of your smile.

Thankfully, that’s where cosmetic dentistry comes in. The wonders of modern cosmetic dentistry allows you to alter your teeth in order to achieve a smile that you can take pride in and be excited to show off.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

There are various procedures available for correcting the aesthetics of your smile. The methods that are used will be dependent upon what you wish to achieve as well as the discretion of your cosmetic dentist.

Below are some examples of popular cosmetic dentistry:

• Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin layers of porcelain or composite that are bonded directly to the surface of the natural tooth. The veneer essentially provides a completely personalized approach to the look of the tooth; patients have the opportunity to customize the shape, length, shade, and overall look of the tooth.
  In order to place a dental veneer, about a half-millimetre of enamel must first be removed from the tooth. Your dentist will have to confirm that you are a good candidate; those with poor enamel structure may not qualify for treatment. Prices can range from $600-$3500 per tooth.
• Dental Bondings:Dental bondings are used to correct broken, cracked, or misshapen teeth.
  To place a dental bonding, your dentist will place a putty-like composite material that has been modified to match the shade of your natural teeth and meld it into the desired shape before curing it with an LED light
  The light hardens the material so it matches the natural tooth structure. Your dentist will then shave the material down and polish it to ensure that there is a seamless look and feel to the bonding. The price ranges between $350-$650 per tooth.
• Dental Crown: Dental crowns are essentially caps that are designed to fit directly over the natural tooth. In most cases, a crown is used to restore damaged or decayed teeth, and they may also be used to correct a discoloured tooth.
  In order to place a dental crown, any damage or decay to the tooth has to be restored. The tooth will then be shaved down on all sides to allow space for the crown. The crown is then cemented into place so it will be nearly indistinguishable from the natural tooth, both in looks and function. The price ranges between $2900-$3500 per tooth.
• Dental Bridge: A dental bridge is essentially a multiple-unit dental crown; they are used to close any empty spaces in the patient’s smile line.
  In order to stay securely in place, the dental bridge will be fastened to two anchor teeth. These anchor teeth will undergo the same preparation procedure as a dental crown (caps will be cemented directly over top of the natural tooth structure).
  Dental crowns are attached to the caps on the anchor teeth which are designed to perfectly match the patient’s natural teeth. These crowns rest over the gum line, closing the gap and creating the visual effect of natural teeth.
• Dental Implants: Dental implants are titanium, screw-like devices that are placed directly into the bone of the jaw in order to replace a missing tooth. A dental crown is then placed over the top of the implant, filling the smile line.
  Dental implants are considered to be the optimal choice for replacing teeth, as they closely resemble a natural tooth and prevent bone loss by securing the place in the bone where the tooth’s roots were.
  In order to determine if you are a candidate for a dental implant, your dentist will thoroughly examine your bone density to ensure that the placement of the implant will be successful. The price ranges between $6500-$8500 per tooth.
• Teeth Whitening:A staple in cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening is used to brighten the tooth enamel to achieve a whiter smile. An in-office whitening session may range in price between $550-$995.

For more information about cosmetic dentistry, or to make an appointment, give us a call on 02 8319 5557.