Cosmetic Dentistry: What is its Procedures and Types

Being a dentist at Smiles Marysville, I am very curious about how I do cosmetic dentistry treatments and what procedures and types I use to give my patients an attractive smile. So, I tried to search for authentic information about cosmetic dentistry, including its procedures and what is it.

Cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of procedures to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. From teeth whitening and veneers to bonding and braces, plenty of options suit your needs. Whether you’re looking to fix a chipped tooth, brighten your smile, or straighten things out, cosmetic dentistry has covered you. It’s all about boosting your confidence and giving you a smile you’ll love to show off. Ready to discover the possibilities? 

Let’s discuss the procedure of cosmetic dentistry!

Procedures of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of teeth, gums, and smiles. Various procedures can address issues such as discolouration, misalignment, and missing teeth. Below is a detailed look at the steps involved in some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures.

Teeth Whitening

The process begins with a dental examination to assess the suitability of the patient for teeth whitening. The dentist evaluates the extent of discoloration and checks for any underlying dental issues.

Preparation: Before the actual whitening procedure, the dentist cleans the teeth to remove any plaque or tartar, ensuring the whitening agent works more effectively.

Whitening Process: A protective barrier is applied to the gums to prevent irritation. Then, a whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is applied to the teeth. The gel is activated by a special light or laser, which accelerates the whitening process. This session may last between 30 to 60 minutes, and multiple sessions might be required for optimal results.

Dental Veneers

Consultation and Planning: Patients discuss their aesthetic goals with the dentist, who then evaluates their teeth to determine if veneers are appropriate. Impressions of the teeth are taken to create a model for custom veneers.

Tooth Preparation: A small amount of enamel is removed from the front surface of the teeth to accommodate the veneers. This is usually about half a millimetre of enamel.

Impression Taking: After tooth preparation, another impression is taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the veneers are custom-made.

Veneer Placement: Once the veneers are ready, the dentist checks their fit and colour. The teeth are cleaned, polished, and etched to create a suitable bonding surface. Dental cement is applied to the veneers, which are then placed on the teeth. A special light is used to harden the cement, securing the veneers in place.

Dental Implants

Initial Assessment: The dentist conducts a comprehensive examination, including X-rays and 3D images, to assess bone structure and determine the best placement for the implants.

Implant Placement: During the surgical procedure, a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to act as the tooth root. This is done under local anaesthesia, and the gum is stitched closed over the implant.

Osseointegration: Over the next few months, the jawbone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration, securing the implant firmly in place.

Abutment Placement: Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector post called an abutment is attached to the implant. This will hold the new tooth.

Crown Placement: A custom-made crown is created to match the patient’s natural teeth and is attached to the abutment. This completes the procedure, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth.

Orthodontic Treatments

Evaluation and Planning: The dentist or orthodontist evaluates the alignment of the teeth and jaw using X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions. A treatment plan is created, which may include traditional braces or clear aligners.

Appliance Placement: For braces, brackets are bonded to the teeth, and a wire is threaded through them. For clear aligners, a series of custom-made, removable trays are provided to the patient.

Adjustments and Monitoring: Regular visits are necessary to adjust braces or to receive the next set of aligners. This ensures the teeth are moving as planned.

Retention: After the active treatment phase, a retainer is usually provided to maintain the teeth in their new position.