Cosmetic dentistry is a collection of procedures that focus on improving the look of your smile. These treatments include teeth whitening, veneers, and composite fillings.
These fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that can be shaded to match your teeth. They can be used to repair minor cavities or to correct discoloration and chips.
Gum contouring
Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes excess gum tissue to improve the appearance of the smile. This treatment is usually performed on healthy adults and is a quick, painless process that results in a noticeable improvement in the smile. During the consultation process, the dentist will design the new gum line with the patient through computerized mock-ups before reshaping the gums. This procedure is also known as gingival sculpting and may be performed in one visit.
Patients with a gummy smile can benefit from gum contouring because it will make their teeth look larger and more proportional to their mouth size. In addition to cosmetic benefits, gum contouring can help reduce the risk of oral health issues such as periodontal disease and tooth decay.
It is important to choose a qualified cosmetic dentist for this type of procedure. A skilled cosmetic dentist will have taken additional training in this collection of treatments and will have extensive technical knowledge and a refined artistic touch as well. This will ensure that your gum contouring results are natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding is a quick, relatively painless treatment that involves applying tooth-colored resin to a damaged or discolored tooth. The material is shaped and sculpted by your cosmetic dentist to match the surrounding teeth, and then hardened with ultraviolet light. The procedure can be used to fix chips, fill in gaps or correct a crooked smile. Composite resin is a durable blend of glass and plastic.
Cosmetic bonding is an affordable alternative to veneers and crowns. It is usually done in a single visit and is suitable for patients with minor problems. However, it is important to note that bonded resin does not last as long as porcelain veneers or dental crowns, and is less resistant to staining.
Your cosmetic dentist can advise you on whether composite bonding is right for you, and will also explore options like gum contouring to help you get a great result. Contact your local Bupa Dental Care practice today to discuss your options.
Veneers
Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the surface of a tooth to hide stains, chipped teeth, short teeth and uneven spacing. Depending on the type of veneers you choose, they can last up to 25 years or more. The most durable option is porcelain veneers, but they are usually more expensive than composite resin ones.
Veneer placement usually doesn’t require any downtime, and you can return to your normal activities right away. However, it’s important to keep in mind that veneers can feel a bit rough or abrasive for the first few days. This is because extra cement remains on the surface of the tooth, but it should wear off with regular brushing and flossing.
If you want to get veneers, make sure to choose a dentist who has plenty of experience in the procedure. They should also be able to help you determine the best options for your needs and budget. They should be able to tell you what the results will look like in advance and discuss the various types of veneers available.
Crowns
Cosmetic dentists use crowns to restore damaged teeth. They can also use them to improve the appearance of a tooth, such as its shape and size. Crowns are made of a porcelain or ceramic material that is custom matched to the color of the natural tooth. This allows the crown to blend in with the surrounding teeth. There are several types of crowns, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic and resin crowns. Each type of crown has its own benefits and drawbacks.
A dentist will choose the most conservative restorative option for a damaged tooth, and will only recommend dental crowns when they believe that the damage is too significant for a filling or an inlay to repair. Cosmetic crowns are often used on the front teeth, where aesthetics are a priority, but they can be used to restore other damaged teeth as well.
When choosing a cosmetic dentist, make sure they have extensive training and experience. Look for patient testimonials and online reviews. It is also important to choose a dentist who specializes in your particular needs, such as veneers or dental implants.
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are a good option for those who want to fill a small cavity or repair a chipped tooth. They are also used for cosmetic dentistry to shape and whiten teeth or create veneers. Composite resin bonding is a very durable treatment that requires little to no recovery time. However, it is more susceptible to staining than natural teeth and should not be exposed to excessive pressure.
Before a tooth is treated with composite, the dentist will use an etching solution to roughen it. This is done painlessly and helps the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The dentist will then apply a putty-like composite resin to the tooth and shape it. A curing light is then used to harden the bonding material. After the dentist has shaped and sculpted the resin, they will polish it and check the bite.
Composite resin bonding is one of the most minimally invasive cosmetic treatments in dentistry. It usually takes only 30 to 60 minutes to complete and does not require a local anesthetic. It is also a reversible treatment, so patients can opt for other cosmetic procedures in the future like crowns and veneers.