eDental Direct explains general dentistry mainly focuses on oral health and incorporates a precautionary method of restoring teeth in order to prevent tooth decay or loss. A visit to the general family dentist includes treatment that’s recommended and required, such as oral exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges or dentures.
However while visiting a practice which has specialization in cosmetic dentistry would focus on enhancing the form and function of the smile utilizing reconstructive dental methodology.
Over the last decade, cosmetic dentistry has proven to enhance not only the aesthetic of a smile, but to propel general dentistry away from gold or metal fillings (amalgam) into using resin, composite or porcelain (all tooth-colored) fillings. The benefits of tooth-colored fillings are that not only do they look better, as they are the same color as the teeth, but they also do not leave the dark residue that amalgam (or silver colored) fillings cause.
As a result, many patients now elect use of tooth-colored fillings made of resin, composite or porcelain in order to create a more natural looking smile. In fact, an increasing number of patients over the last fifteen years have elected to have their silver fillings removed in order to replace them with tooth-colored fillings. The idea of general dentistry has evolved into combining a healthy mouth with one that is also aesthetically pleasing.
Cosmetic Dentistry and Technology
Cosmetic Dentistry has evolved from tooth colored fillings to state-of-the-art materials customized to create the ideal smile say Los angeles cosmetic dentists. These new materials are “built to last” and easy to maintain both for the patient and the dentist. Depending on the patient’s case and the technological advances in dentistry, the idea behind cosmetic dentistry has become preserving as much of the given tooth structure as possible, while achieving the optimal aesthetic look.
Other advancement which Los Angeles Cosmetic dentists speak of the laser technology has made its way into the cosmetic dentist’s office – whether in the form of teeth whitening or gum enhancement. Such breakthroughs allow cosmetic dentists the autonomy to complete intricate dental design with minimal need for referrals. This cuts down on the patient’s recovery, cost and time.
Common Procedures
Top Cosmetic dentists perform a number of treatments in order to provide patients with their ideal smiles. While incorporating the patient’s existing tooth structure, cosmetic dentists create the ideal shape according to each patient’s unique physiological make-up. Patient’s often times enhance their appearance and look younger due to the dramatic results of cosmetic dentistry.
Some of the typically methodologies used by cosmetic dentists in optimizing a patient’s smile include the following:
• Teeth Whitening or Bleaching: Used to brighten the smile by lightening the color of the teeth
• Composite or Resin Fillings: Enamel or tooth colored fillings
• Inlays or Onlays: Porcelain fillings that cover an area too large for a filling
• Veneers: A laminate tooth covering used to create an ideal shape
• Dental Implants: Teeth are implanted into the mouth in lieu of missing teeth.
• Smile Design: Complete restructuring of a smile and sometimes the surrounding gum tissues.