What Are Some of the Most Well-Known Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?

Professional Teeth Whitening

The professional whitening system is among the most well-known cosmetic dentistry procedures that dentists offer. This type of procedure has been proven to get rid of unsightly stains from teeth that have changed color due to age or food and colored beverages. These teeth whitening services are offered in the dental office and at home as a take out tray, which can be applied by the patients themselves.

Some people may wonder if they could just use white strips sold at the drugstore. For them, it has the same materials as well as function. The fact remains that it is crucial to have teeth whitened by an expert in the field since a cosmetic dentist can adjust the treatment based on the specific needs of a patient.

Such needs include tooth sensitivity, teeth stains, cavities and crowns, among others. Chemical whiteners that are available in the market can result to unfavorable reactions that could have been otherwise prevented when consulting an expert.

Invisalign

Invisalign is, basically, invisible braces that do not have the awkward and annoying metal parts of conventional ones. Also, they have been proven to work faster in correcting smiles. An orthodontist administers clear aligners at certain intervals during the treatment. Such aligners will cause the teeth to move upward, downward, horizontally, vertically and in a rotational direction as well.

Expert leading edge technology has enabled dentists to customize aligners to fit the patient’s teeth comfortably. Orthodontists will work out a custom treatment plan in detail to make patients see the difference whenever they receive a new set of aligners. These professionals recommend Invisalign because it not only reduces pain but it is more comfortable to use than the awkward metal braces of the past.

Veneers

Veneers are, basically, custom-designed shells often made of ceramic that can fit comfortably on a compromised or broken tooth. They are expertly designed to conceal the most bothersome teeth. They go together with tooth implants and can be used side by side with conventional dentistry.

Is it Safe to Undergo Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?

The process of cosmetic dental procedures is similar to the usual dental procedures. The difference lies in the final outcome. The primary goal of cosmetic dentistry is to deliver an aesthetically beautiful smile while that of regular dental work is to promote dental health. Since they have similar processes, they involve the same level of risk, which is very low. Both Invisalign and metal braces entail the least risk among all the dental procedures.

One side effect of teeth whitening is the teeth becoming more sensitive in the long run. The dentist can curb this by reducing the amount of bleach in the formula and whenever possible, customizing the patient’s treatment.

At times when veneers are used together with a dental implant, the dentist needs to shave down and restructure the tooth and this may require a root canal later on. Though there have been such cases, these seldom happen.

As anyone can tell, cosmetic dentistry and regular dental procedures pose nearly the same risks. What is important is that patients should always consult the cosmetic dentist that will best address their needs to make sure they are in safe, expert hands.