Cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of a person's teeth, gums, and/or bite. It primarily deals with improvement in dental aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance.

Overview

Cosmetic dentistry may involve:

• The addition of a dental material to teeth or gums – examples: bonding, porcelain veneers (laminates), crowns (caps), gum grafts
• The removal of tooth structure or gums – examples: enameloplasty, gingivectomy
• Neither adding nor removing dental materials, tooth structure, or gums – examples: teeth whitening (bleaching), gum depigmentation
• Straightening of teeth accompanied by improvement in the face – orthodontics

Procedures

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure. While many whitening options are now available, dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

Veneers

Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth. They are an option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures.

Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth root replacements that are used as a part of prosthetic (artificial replacement) dentistry in order to compensate for tooth loss.

Gum lift

Gum lift is a cosmetic dental procedure that raises and sculpts the gum line. The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer or more symmetrical teeth.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with cosmetic dentistry. These may include sensitivity, infection, and possible need for future dental work.

See Also

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Periodontics

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