Cosmetic dentistry, like all other cosmetic procedures, involves surgeries and processes that may improve your physical appearances but aren’t detrimental to your health. General dentistry refers to routine and necessary procedures like fillings and root canals. In comparison, not undergoing a certain cosmetic procedure will not adversely affect you.
Pros of Cosmetic Dentistry
- It can go a long way in improving your self-confidence. Thus, many young people these days are opting for cosmetic dentistry.
- Most procedures are non-invasive and pain-free.
- Cosmetic procedures provide a quick fix.
- It can help you tackle signs of ageing by providing healthy-looking teeth.
Besides that, many dentists are nowadays investing in CPR masks to protect themselves from splashes of fluids from the patient’s mouth. The CDC recommends that the dentist wear a surgical mask and eye-protective gear during all surgeries can protect them from contagious infections.
Listed below are some things you should know about cosmetic dentistry.
- Cosmetic dentistry is an age-old practice:
The idea of using procedures to improve the appearance of your teeth has been around for quite long. Examples of cosmetic dentistry can be found among ancient cultures such as the Etruscans of Italy. They used ivory and bone to make dentures. Meanwhile, Egyptians used shells to replace their missing teeth.
Many other cultures had their own practices similar to the procedures of cosmetic dentistry that we have today.
- Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure.
Many people prefer to smile with their mouth closed because over the years their teeth have become dull and yellow. Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that guarantees whiter teeth immediately. Bleaching and laser treatment are some of the most common ways of teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening can remove stubborn stains from your teeth and leave your teeth looking younger and healthier.
- Cosmetic procedures are constantly evolving.
There are new developments in the field of cosmetic dentistry every year. There is always scope for finding procedures that improve the appearance of your teeth or make the existing procedures simpler and more accessible.
One of the latest technological innovations allows dentists to make thinner veneers than before. A veneer is a thin moulding which is used to cover the uneven or crooked part of a tooth. The thinner the veneer is, the more natural your tooth will look. And more of your natural tooth will remain intact.
- Crowns and bridges are more affordable than implants.
Bridges fill the gaps created by missing teeth – often more than one. Meanwhile, crowns cap crooked or chipped teeth to improve their shape. Both are non-invasive procedures that make your teeth look the same as they would after implants.
Crown and bridges require not only simpler but also more affordable procedures. They need to be replaced in 5-7 years because they aren’t as long-lasting as All-on-4 implants in Miami, FL. But even then, many people find crowns and bridges more economical.
- Cosmetic dentistry can improve your overall oral health
Cosmetic procedures improve the structure of your teeth and allow you to take better care of your teeth daily. Straighter and less crooked teeth are easier to floss and clean. In the case of teeth with cavities, cosmetic dentistry reduces the chances of further decay.
Gum contouring using laser technology makes way for healthier gums. It aims to remove excessive gum tissue, which reduces the hidden spots where bacteria may collect and cause harm to your teeth and gums.
- You can undo the effects of ageing with cosmetic dentistry.
Your teeth will start decaying after being exposed to prolonged periods of wear and tear. Although preventive measures like brushing and flossing are necessary, they may often prove to be insufficient with age. This is where cosmetic dentistry comes in. By improving the structure and appearance of your teeth, cosmetic procedures can tackle the implications of ageing teeth.
- Cosmetic dentistry does not mean you stop taking care of your teeth.
Once you have a beautiful set of teeth, you may be tempted to stop your rigorous dental care routines. But, to have healthy white teeth in the long run you need to take constant care of your teeth. It requires visiting your cosmetic dentist regularly, even after the procedure completes. You must also ensure that the toothpaste you choose does not grind the surface of the veneers or crowns in your mouth.
Although not necessary, cosmetic surgeries can often make your life easier by simplifying the process of dental care and upkeep and improving the overall condition of your teeth.