Cosmetic Dentistry, Is It For You? By Dr. Scott Watkins At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Cosmetic dentistry is by definition a type of dentistry that is used mainly for aesthetic rather than medical reasons. Even so, not all physical imperfections can be completely resolved with a dental procedure. There is no perfect smile or shade that works for everyone’s bone structure and tooth type. As you contemplate whether or not cosmetic dentistry is for you, you may find it helpful to ask yourself the following questions...

Do you have teeth that are chipped or slightly decayed?

If you do than you may consider having these teeth bonded. The bonding process consists of applying a resin to the tooth’s surface in order to repair and reshape it. The bonding can be colored to match your other teeth and sculpted into shape. Boding can also be used as a method to fill cavities and to close spaced in between teeth. In more involved procedures, bonding can be used to cover the outside of the teeth to change color and alter the shape of your teeth.

Do you have any missing teeth?

Bridges are made to fill the spaces in your mouth left empty by missing teeth. Bridges are removable and can be made to match your tooth color and shape. To the naked eye, bridges can look just like your other teeth. There are also more permanent ways to replace missing teeth. Dental implants provide a permanent means for tooth replacement and the success rate of dental implants is highly impressive.

Do you have teeth that are jagged or slightly uneven?

In some cases a dentist can re-shape teeth without adhering anything to them or even using any anesthesia. The cosmetic dentist can use a sanding disk to change the shape of a tooth to better match its neighbors.

Do you have a weak biting surface?

When the strength of your teeth is compromised by cavities, an injury or other distress, a crown can be used not only to cover and disguise the damage done to the tooth but also to restore some lost strength to the tooth. A crown replaces most of the enamel around the tooth. When this layer of enamel is replaced or reinforced, the tooth can withstand a larger degree of pressure when chewing.

Do you have ill aligned teeth, jaw bones or facial profile?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that addresses the mouth’s ability to close and have all the teeth in the proper position. An orthodontist studies for an additional 2-3 years to specialize in the alignment of teeth, jaw bones, and facial profile.

Are porcelain laminate veneers right for me?

If the problems with your teeth are more extensive than what simple bonding procedures can correct than you may need to have porcelain laminate veneers. Porcelain veneers are known to be quick, relatively painless and automatic in their results. Many people are choosing to forgo traditional orthodontic work and choose to correct their teeth with laminate veneers instead. Laminate veneers are also very popular because in many cases they can be molded, made, and applied with only two dentist visits.

Do you need help finding a cosmetic dentist?

Finding a good cosmetic dentist can be challenging depending on the demand for cosmetic dentistry in your area. With an investment such as your smile you are better off to take your time to make your decisions carefully. Of course you will want to not only review the credentials of the dentists that you are considering, but you will also want to find out about their continuing education and expertise in the areas of cosmetic dentistry that you are most interested in.

Published At: Isnare Free Articles Directory http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=145488&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Important Notice DISCLAIMER: All information, content, and data in this article are sole opinions and/or findings of the individual user or organization that registered and submitted this article at Isnare.com without any fee. The article is strictly for educational or entertainment purposes only and should not be used in any way, implemented or applied without consultation from a professional. We at Isnare.com do not, in anyway, contribute or include our own findings, facts and opinions in any articles presented in this site. Publishing this article does not constitute Isnare.com's support or sponsorship for this article. Isnare.com is an article publishing service. Please read our Terms of Service for more information.