Are you unhappy with your smile? Are you struggling with certain types of teeth issues? Cosmetic dentistry may be the solution to all your problems. This guide has everything you should know about cosmetic dentistry, from the types to the treatment cost. Keep reading to learn more!
Cosmetic dentistry has become very popular over recent years with several in-demand dental procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, smile makeover, etc. A good reason behind the popularity of cosmetic dentistry is the media and TV programs where “smile makeover” attracted many people. Some people are also highly fascinated by celebrity lifestyles and their teeth appearance, attractive smile, and the search for dental procedures becomes very common.
The fact is, who doesn't want to have a sparkling smile? It enhances your self-esteem and confidence. It not only improves your facial appearance but also gives you a chance to fix the dental issues you're born with. All these are enough reasons to go for cosmetic dental surgeries.
But what cosmetic dentistry exactly is and how can it help you? Let's find out!
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry involves several dental procedures that aim at enhancing the appearance of your natural teeth and gums. In simple words, the dental procedures are carried out to improve your smile and achieve a dazzling facial appearance.
Out of all the dental procedures, “smile makeover” is most popular among people who want to have a sparking and flawless smile.
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving facial aesthetics. This makes it slightly different from traditional dentistry, aiming to improve your teeth' function, structure, and appearance.
The Types Of Cosmetic Dentistry
Below Are The Most Popular Procedures Involved In Cosmetic Dentistry:
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are slim and customized coverings made from tooth-colored porcelain used to cover the teeth' front portion. These customized tooth coverings are cemented on the teeth' front surface after removing about 0.5mm of enamel. These aim at changing the overall appearance of the teeth, including their color, shape and size. Veneers are also known as “Hollywood teeth”.
Dental Bonding
In this procedure, a tooth-colored resin made from high-grade plastic is bonded on the desired tooth and hardened using laser or UV light. A dentist then shapes, trims and polishes it to get the desired look. Dental bonding is recommended for repairing chipped, cracked, crooked and decayed teeth and is also a great substitute for silver filling or amalgam.
Dental Crown
A dental crown, or simply a cap, is applied to a decayed and/or damaged tooth to restore its appearance, strength, shape and size. Dental caps help by keeping a damaged tooth from breaking and supporting it. They can also be used to cover the discoloration of teeth. Further, dental crowns can be made from various materials such as porcelain, metal, ceramic, resin, porcelain-fused-to-metal, etc.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are also known as indirect fillings. These can be made from porcelain, gold and other composite materials and fill up the decayed and damaged teeth. Unlike the dental fillings, inlays and onlays are created in the labs and then cemented by the dentist. When the filling is bonded at the center of the teeth, it is known as Inlays but when the filling is bonded on several points of the tooth, including the biting surface, it is known as onlays. Inlays and onlays are a great alternative to dental crowns.
Dental Implants
In this procedure, the titanium-based tooth roots are inserted into the socket of the missing tooth. When the jawbone heals, the tooth grows around the metal implant that provides its support and foundation.
Dental Bridge And Braces
A dental bridge comprises several crowns for the teeth on the side of the gap and false teeth in the middle. Also, a denture is nothing but a temporary and removable replacement for the missing tooth.
Dental braces are mainly used for straightening crooked teeth. It works by keeping the teeth under continuous pressure through wires to restore the shape of teeth over a period of time.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular and widely used dental procedures. It is also the easiest and cost-effective way to enhance teeth appearance and get a sparkling smile.
You can get your teeth bleached by using the products from your dentist's lab, or you can get products from your dentist and bleach your teeth at home. The treatment can cost you about $500.
Moreover, you can also use commercial teeth whitening products that are widely available in the market and can be used at home. These products include toothpaste, gels, Whitestrips and rinses. You can get these products anywhere from $3 to $50.
How Much Does The Cosmetic Dentistry Cost?
The cost of cosmetic dentistry is a critical factor that affects the final decision. In the current economic situation, people are looking for cost-effective ways to improve their facial aesthetics. So, the cost is an important discussion.
The cost of a particular dental procedure depends upon certain factors such as the procedure you're looking for, the dentist's experience, the place where you're living, the materials used for treatment, and so on.
The cost also depends on the issues you're struggling with. Below is the rough estimate for the cosmetic dentistry cost:
- Teeth whitening: $250 to $1,000
- Veneers: $500-$1,300 and more
- Dental implants: $1,250 to $3,000.
- Cosmetic dental bonding : $100 to $400, per tooth.
- Dental bridge: $180 to $700
- Crowns: $500 to $900
- Inlays and Onlays: $650 to $1,200
Cosmetic Dentistry – Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Think of Cosmetic Dentistry?
A cosmetic dentist is highly trained and experienced in providing several dental treatments that can enhance your teeth appearance and improve your smile. Depending upon the condition of your teeth, you can get any desired treatment. If you're suffering from issues like crooked teeth, severe discoloration, misaligned teeth and other related issues, you can definitely visit a cosmetic dentist.
What Is The Duration of Cosmetic Dental Procedures?
Every treatment is different and thus takes a different amount of time to complete. But the good thing is, most of the treatments get completed in just a single office visit.
Am I Eligible For Teeth Whitening Treatment?
Below is the eligibility criteria for teeth whitening treatment :
- You should have good dental health. This includes brushing 2-3 times a day, regular flossing, regular dental checkups and so on.
- You're above 15 years of age.
- You're suffering from slight or severe teeth discoloration (yellow teeth).
- You want to improve the overall look of your smile.
- You're healthy and not suffering from any diseases.
Are there any side-effects of cosmetic dental procedures?
All the procedures of cosmetic dentistry are safe and very effective. They don't typically involve any major side-effects. However, as with any other treatment, you may experience minor side-effects such as :
- Slight pain after the treatment, which doesn't last for more than 2 days.
- Increased sensitivity on drinking too hot or too cold beverages.
- Gum sensitivity
- Irritation around the gums.
What are the health benefits of cosmetic surgery?
Cosmetic dentistry offers numerous health benefits and not just that. It also prevents you from dangerous mouth diseases. The biggest advantage of dental surgeries is, it reduces the risk of getting mouth infection. When the empty spaces or gaps in your mouth are removed by applying crowns, bridges and dental implants, no space is left for harmful bacteria to grow. Similarly, by removing the decayed tooth through cosmetic treatment, you'll achieve a clean mouth and healthy smile.
How many teeth are treated during cosmetic dental procedures?
The number of teeth to be treated depends upon the type of dental procedure you're taking and the number of affected or damaged teeth.
Some experienced dentists also treat the teeth surrounding the affected ones so that the infection doesn't spread. This is, in fact, the best practice to do.
For how long does the teeth whitening last?
Most teeth whitening procedures last for about a year or two if you take care of your teeth properly. It would be best if you also had touch-ups every year. If you want your teeth whitening to last for a longer time, then stay away from cold drinks, sodas, tea, coffee and other beverages that stain your teeth.
Do dental implants hurt?
Generally, most orthodontics numb the area while carrying out the procedure, so you won't experience much pain. There will be mild pain which will not last for very long.
Is cosmetic dentistry safe for children?
Some dental treatments are safe for children. If a child's teeth are broken or damaged due to any fall or accident, they can be treated at an early age. However, for teeth whitening, it is recommended to reach at least 15 years of age.
And that's all! We hope it helps you.
