Mill Valley Cosmetic Dentistry Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry is a term used to describe dental procedures that are meant to improve the appearance of gums, teeth and bite. By extension, cosmetic dentistry that is planned carefully will also improve functionality of the mouth. It focuses on improving the esthetic appearance of a mouth in terms of color, shape, position, alignment, size and the general appearance of the teeth. Gone are the days when dentistry only involved removing and filling teeth. People are willing to invest in looking better, feeling better and having beautiful smiles. If done well by a qualified cosmetic dentist, the procedures can have tremendous impact on your overall appearance. Cosmetic dentistry can include procedures such as crowns, veneers, implants, bridges, smile makeover, full mouth reconstructions and tooth whitening. Should you be looking to improve your appearance and increase confidence in your smile, give our office a call.
Here are the procedures that cosmetic dentistry encompasses and a brief explanation about what they entail;
1. Composite Bonding
This is procedure used to fix chipped, decayed, broken or discolored teeth. The process involves applying a dental composite material that resembles a dentin and enamel into a cavity or surface of a tooth and then sculpting it into shape. Later, a high intensity light is used to contour and harden the composite bonding. Once this is done, you will be left with teeth that blend well with the rest of your teeth and giving you a bright and beautiful smile. Bonding is one of the simplest and cheapest procedures.
2. Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that cover the surface of teeth on the front side. They are made using medical grade ceramic and they are usually customized to match each patient’s natural teeth. It is applied to the front of every tooth with a dental adhesive. Once the procedure is done, your teeth will look great and your appearance will improve dramatically. Veneers can be used to fix various dental problems such as cracked or damaged enamel, crooked teeth, and bridging gaps between two teeth. Veneers are a traditional solution for improving the color and shape of a tooth unlike crowns. The process cannot be reversed.
3. Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening (teeth bleaching) is one of the simplest cosmetic dentistry procedures that any dentist can perform efficiently. The teeth become white when tartar, plague and other dirt are removed from the surface of each tooth hence restoring their initial appearance before the discoloration set in. sometimes, teeth can be bleached to get a whiter look than the natural color. With time, teeth become discolored and worn out due to drinks, foods, medication or smoking. Actually, you can whiten your teeth at home by using certain toothpastes such as platinum and Colgate for between two weeks and four weeks. You can also use trays, strips, over the counter gels or rinses. However, not everyone can be a candidate for this procedure. It is best for people who have unrestored and healthy teeth and gums.
4. Crown
This is a cap shaped like tooth that is normally placed on top of a weak or destroyed tooth to make the shape, strength, appearance and size of a tooth better than before. Most crowns can survive for five to fifteen years. They are made using ceramic, resin, porcelain combined with metal or metal.
5. Enamel shaping
This procedure is used to rectify small imperfections like slightly overcrowded or uneven teeth. It involves contouring or shaping natural teeth in order to enhance their appearance. Results become apparent instantly. It can be combined with bonding, veneers and whitening.
6. Composite filings
These are usually used to cover cavities in a tooth. They have to be replaced regularly because they crack, wear or chip. Silver fillings are better than composite ones.
7. Braces
Braces are useful in aligning teeth that are out of place by applying pressure to the tooth and bony tooth socket until they are properly aligned. There are different types of braces; there are invisible, metallic and colored ones.
8. Implants
If you have a missing tooth, this is the procedure for you. Its main purpose is to replace missing tooth or teeth. Tooth loss can occur as a result of injury, gum disease and tooth decay. The procedure involves placing a tooth root post made of titanium in the gum where a tooth is missing. The tooth root is left for a while to allow the jawbone to grow around it and secure it firmly. Later, an attachment and a crown are positioned over the tooth root. Sometimes, attachments can be used to hold removable dentures in place. Implants are important because they ensure that the jawbone does not waste away or weaken.
9. Dentures
Dentures are removable artificial teeth that are used by people who have missing teeth and tissue. The two major types of dentures are partial and complete.
10. Bridges
Bridges are used to replace one or more teeth by cementing a bridge into place after placing a crown and attaching artificial teeth on both sides of the gap.
11. Full mouth reconstruction
Today’s technology allows dentists to do this procedure to correct problems that affect functionality.