What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is any dental procedure with most naturally looking outcome; it will blend in with the rest of the natural teeth. If natural teeth are not desirable color or shape, cosmetic dentistry can improve natural teeth appearance.
How would I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me or my family?
Cosmetic dentistry is right for anyone that has a desire and a need to improve their natural teeth appearance.
What's the difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry?
The difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry is that cosmetic dentistry is not only focused on fixing decayed or chipped teeth but to make them very nice looking, primarily with tooth-colored materials. General dentistry is term that is the same as family dentistry. General dentistry represents all the scopes of dentistry which includes the prevention of disease by taking care of patient's dental cleanings and checkup exams, fixing cavities and dental problems as they occur and it can also include cosmetic dentistry. This is because modern dental materials are tooth colored and most general dentistry procedures turn out to look very good.
What is the difference between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry?
The difference between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry is that cosmetic dentistry is not only focused on fixing decayed or chipped teeth but to make them very nice looking, primarily with tooth-colored materials. Restorative dentistry is generally focused on fixing decayed or broken teeth back to their original form and function. Restorative dentistry can include cosmetic dentistry when the dentist has the goal to create esthetic color and shape of the teeth after they are finished with the procedure. Cosmetic dentistry can also include whitening teeth or making veneers to make teeth look better where there is no decay or chipping.
How can a cosmetic dentist fix my teeth?
As a cosmetic dentist, I can fix teeth by evaluating what are the unsightly problems that are causing distress when the patient looks at their own teeth. It may involve fixing decay, fixing chipped or broken teeth, or making changes to the color of teeth. In some situations, if there is crowding, I may recommend it is best for the patient to have braces or Invisalign trays to straighten the teeth. Then whiten the teeth and then evaluate for any additional dental procedures if needed.
Can cosmetic dentistry improve my smile?
Cosmetic dentistry can significantly improve your smile by making your teeth look better in shape and color and alignment
Can cosmetic dentistry fix an overbite?
Cosmetic dentistry can improve overbite; however, it is better to undergo braces or Invisalign procedures first to improve your teeth position and relation to each other before you do cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Can a cosmetic dentist fix crooked teeth?
Yes, cosmetic dentist can fix crooked teeth; however, in some situations, the best approach is to do braces or Invisalign first and then undergo cosmetic dentistry procedure.
How old should a child be before considering cosmetic dentistry? Can a cosmetic dentist work with young children?
Children should be usually in high school to undergo cosmetic dentistry procedure. In some rare situations they may be 10-12 years old if they are very self-conscious of their dental condition. Because of modern materials, a Cosmetic dentist can work on a child of any age by using tooth-colored materials like composite resin that can be used as a semi-permanent dental restoration. These materials can be adjusted or replaced at an older age after the child's mouth has fully developed.
Is there any point where someone is too old or not well enough for cosmetic dentistry?
There is no such thing as being too old for cosmetic dentistry. People of any age can improve their smile and their teeth appearance. In my opinion the only requirement is that the person should be healthy enough to undergo general and restorative dentistry procedures.
What other conditions can be fixed with cosmetic dentistry?
Some people were born with small teeth or missing teeth. These patients can especially benefit by seeing a cosmetic dentist.
How can cosmetic dentistry change the structure of my mouth?
Cosmetic dentistry can change the structure of the mouth by improving the fullness of lips and by creating a wide smile appearance.
When is cosmetic dentistry considered oral surgery?
Cosmetic dentistry considered oral surgery when teeth are not restorable, and they cannot be fixed with standard methods. In this case bad teeth get removed and are replaced with implants or bridges.
What are the advantages and benefits of cosmetic dentistry?
The advantage of cosmetic dentistry is to have a healthy and attractive smile and good stable bite. This gives people back their confidence when they are with their friends and family.
What is the process I can expect to go through if I get cosmetic dentistry?
You should expect when going through cosmetic dentistry procedure multiple appointments and possible multiple try ins if you are making front teeth crowns (caps).
What should I consider when choosing a dentist for cosmetic dentistry?
I would look for a dentist who showcase their work on their website or in their office. They should be able to show examples of how they have helped other people in similar situations as you have.
Is cosmetic dentistry painful?
Cosmetic dentistry can be comfortable by allowing the dentist to numb the mouth and listening to their recommendations regarding pain medications. Also, laughing gas and oral sedative medications can be used to improve over all experience.
What anesthesia options will be available during a cosmetic dental procedure?
Usually during cosmetic dental procedures we use local numbness, laughing gas, and oral sedative medications when needed.
How long will it take for me to recover from a cosmetic dental procedure?
The recovery time after the cosmetic dental procedure will vary depending on what you have done. Teeth whitening has no down time and very minimal chair time. An extensive number of teeth being prepared for crowns (caps) might take a few weeks for the gums to feel normal.
Will I need to follow any specific directions after cosmetic dentistry?
Specific directions might be needed after the cosmetic dentistry and they will be provided to you by your dentist depending on what procedure was done.
Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?
Some cosmetic dentistry procedures are covered by insurance. Tooth colored fillings, crowns, extractions, implants will be covered by insurance with some additional out of the pocket expense. Veneers and teeth whitening are usually not covered.
If my insurance won't cover the cost of cosmetic dentistry are there any financing options available?
If insurance will not over the cosmetic dentistry there are multiple options available such as third-party financing options, personal loan, several payment installments discussed with financial coordinator.
How can I schedule an appointment to discuss cosmetic dentistry?
Call our office to schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry and request an evaluation by our dentist.
I hope we have been able to answer some of your questions about cosmetic dentistry. If you have additional questions or are ready to get started, please call us at (360) 800-2372. We're here to help you.