What Does a Cosmetic Dentist Do?
A cosmetic dentist is a professional who specialises in improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. While general dentistry is typically focused on the health and functionality of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry goes a step further to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile. In Australia, cosmetic dentistry is gaining increasing popularity as more people desire a brighter, more aligned, and generally more attractive smile.
Cosmetic dentists provide a range of treatments to improve the overall look of your teeth. This includes addressing issues such as discolouration, misalignment, chipping, gaps, and overall smile design. They use a variety of techniques and procedures, some of which we will explore further.
1. Teeth Whitening:
One of the most popular services offered by a cosmetic dentist is teeth whitening. Over time, teeth can become stained or discoloured due to a range of factors, including diet, smoking, age, and certain medications. A cosmetic dentist can perform professional teeth whitening to restore your teeth to a whiter and brighter colour.
2. Dental Veneers:
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or resin that cover the front surface of your teeth. They are used to fix a variety of cosmetic issues, such as chipped, stained, misshapen, or misaligned teeth. They can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth. Veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile and are long-lasting.
3. Dental Bonding:
Bonding is a procedure where a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to a tooth and hardened with a special light. It’s used to repair decayed, chipped, or cracked teeth, or to reduce gaps between teeth. It can also be used to change the shape or colour of your teeth.
4. Dental Crowns:
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a custom-made restoration that fits over a tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be used to protect a weak tooth, restore a broken or worn-down tooth, cover misshapen or severely discoloured teeth, or cover a dental implant.
5. Dental Implants:
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots, similar in shape to screws. When dental implants are placed in your jawbone, they bond with your natural bone. They become a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns.
6. Orthodontics and Invisalign:
Orthodontics involves moving or straightening teeth to improve both the appearance and function of your smile. While braces are the most traditional form of orthodontics, many cosmetic dentists now also offer Invisalign. This involves a series of clear, custom-made aligners that slowly move your teeth into the desired position.
7. Gum Contouring:
For those who feel their gums are either too prominent or not prominent enough, cosmetic dentists can use a procedure known as gum contouring or gum reshaping to correct and reshape the gum line.
The goal of a cosmetic dentist is to create a positive change in your teeth and enhance your smile. While cosmetic dentistry is often seen as not necessary for oral health, its impact on a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence can be significant. The Australian Dental Association recognises the importance of cosmetic dentistry, provided that the procedures are performed responsibly, ethically, and in line with the patient’s oral and general health needs.
It’s important to remember that cosmetic dentistry should complement the health and function of your teeth, not compromise it. So, if you’re considering cosmetic dental procedures, ensure you consult with a reputable cosmetic dentist to discuss the best options for you.