General dentistry procedures focus on maintaining oral hygiene and preventing, diagnosing and treating oral disease. In a related vein, cosmetic dentistry procedures work to improve the appearance of the teeth, mouth and smile. In a nutshell, general dentistry addresses dental problems that require treatment, whereas cosmetic dentistry addresses dental issues patients elect to have worked on. Common issues where cosmetic dentistry can help include:
- Cracked, chipped, fractured or broken teeth
- Gaps and spaces between teeth
- Discolored, yellowed or stained teeth
- Slightly misaligned or uneven teeth
- Missing teeth
- Teeth that appear too long, too short or too pointed
- Very worn teeth
- Misshapen teeth
Cosmetic dentistry can also provide restorative benefits. As an example, dental fillings are a common treatment for decayed teeth. In the past, most dental fillings used gold, amalgam and other materials that resulted in dark spots on patient’s teeth. Now, porcelain or composite materials can be chosen to match the natural color of a patient’s teeth to avoid discoloration issues and maintain one’s smile. Other patients may also decide to replace older fillings using these newer, natural colored fillings to enhance their smile even more. A third benefit of the advancements with these newer materials is they make cosmetic dental treatments more durable and thus predictable than before.
Helpful Trends
Several main trends have emerged that aid the use of the porcelain and composite materials.
One, dentists work to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, depending upon your specific condition.
Two, dentists leverage technologies such as lasers to complete certain cosmetic dentistry procedures in their own offices. This can save procedure time, recovery time, cost and eliminate the need for referrals to specialists. This makes procedures more comfortable and convenient for patients.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Options
Inlays/Onlays: At Advanced Dental Artistry, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care that will improve your oral health and promote your long-term well-being. Part of this commitment involves providing conservative treatments whenever possible. One example of the conservative, restorative treatments that Dr. Kenneth Yost provides are dental inlays and onlays.
Dental Bonding: If you are considering enhancing your smile with cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Yost may recommend dental bonding to help you achieve the results you desire. Dental bonding is a more conservative cosmetic treatment, working to improve the appearance of your teeth while also maintaining as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
Teeth Whitening: Our professional teeth whitening treatment employs a robust whitening gel that is applied to the surface of your teeth. It works to lighten the exterior enamel if it has been stained or discolored or has yellowed over time. This process allows each patient to have a whiter, cleaner smile that helps boost confidence and brighten appearance.
Porcelain Dental Veneers: Stain resistant and matched to your smile, dental veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile. While veneers made from other materials are used in varying practices, our dentist and team have chosen porcelain in order to provide you with a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for your smile.
Dental Implants: While there are several options for tooth replacement available, dental implants are the ideal option for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile and oral function. Dr. Kenneth Yost is one of the most highly recognized and trained experts in this area.
Full Mouth Reconstruction: If your mouth has sustained significant damage, including chipped or broken teeth, cracked or fractured teeth, tooth decay, missing teeth, gum disease or infection, or dental injury or trauma, Dr. Yost may recommend full-mouth reconstruction to redesign and rebuild your smile. This advanced treatment combines a variety of restorative and cosmetic services to give you back your ability to speak and eat normally as well as smile with confidence.
Please contact our office to schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Yost for help with any cosmetic dentistry issues.
