Common Procedures Performed by a Cosmetic Dentist

Your cosmetic dentist can transform your appearance by enhancing your smile. You may be able to get these treatments from your general dentist. But a dentist who focuses on cosmetic dental treatments can deliver them with more detail. The following are the common procedures your cosmetic dentist can perform.

Dental bonding

This treatment is also called cosmetic bonding. A general dentist offers it as a treatment for cavities. A cosmetic dentist offers it to restore a damaged tooth’s appearance. The bonding material can improve misshapen teeth. It can also close mild to moderate dental gaps. The composite resin can conceal dental stains, yielding dramatic results.

Dental alignment

The cosmetic dentist will suggest discreet, clear aligners for mild to moderate misalignment. The trays are removable. Switching to new aligners must happen every week or two. Maintaining the schedule will enable the teeth to straighten according to the schedule.

Braces are more visible. The wires attach to the brackets, guiding the teeth to their correct positions. These devices are attached to the teeth. The cosmetic dentist is the only one who can remove them. Braces can correct severe misalignments.

Dental veneers

The cosmetic dentist will suggest dental veneers if the patient wants a long-lasting solution to dental issues, such as dental discoloration. These thin, custom-fitted shells cover the front surfaces of the affected teeth. The provider must first shave off a thin layer of the enamel. Doing so will roughen the surface, allowing the shells to better adhere to the teeth. This step also provides more space for the custom veneers.

Professional teeth whitening

Research shows that this treatment is the most popular treatment a cosmetic dentist can offer. It is a quick in-office treatment that yields visible results in about an hour. The dentist can strengthen the whitening reagent on the spot to meet the patient’s preferred shade of white. The at-home version is for busy individuals who cannot attend regular appointments. This treatment is for superficial stains. The cosmetic dentist will suggest another treatment for deeper stains.

Dental crowns

These restorations are also called caps. The cosmetic dentist uses them to cover whole dental structures above the gumline. A crown can restore the healthy appearance of damaged teeth. It strengthens the weakened tooth, allowing it to function well again. Placing a dental crown over a root canal-treated tooth helps protect the tooth from further damage.

Dental implants

The cosmetic dentist can provide dental implants to replace missing teeth. These restorations are the gold standard of dental restorations. An implant can replace an entire tooth system. A titanium rod serves as the dental root. It merges with the jawbone and gum tissue, providing a strong foundation for the artificial tooth. Dental implants can also support bridges and dentures.

Maintaining the results of cosmetic dental treatments

The cosmetic dentist will remind the patient about proper aftercare. Following these instructions can prevent complications. It can also help the results of the procedure last for a long time. Here are some aftercare instructions to remember:

• Keep regular appointments for regular cleanings and checkups
• Perform daily oral care
• Avoid chewy, acidic, or sugary foods
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Stay away from staining foods and drinks
• Stop bad oral habits, such as using teeth as package openers
• Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports
• Wear a nightguard at night for bruxism