What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Fixing Smiles for the Better!

Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, and bite. Depending on the procedure, it changes the color, size, shape, and position of teeth, improving the overall smile appearance. Unlike traditional dentistry, which addresses health concerns of the teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry is more about the appearance of the teeth, the smile, and the face.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Some of the common types of cosmetic dentistry are described below:

Teeth Whitening: This is one of the simplest and least expensive ways to improve your smile. Teeth are whitened with in-office products in your dentist’s office, or you may purchase a mold and gel kit from your dentist to whiten your teeth at home. These professional products are much easier to use and far more effective than generic kits available in pharmacies and drug stores.

Dental Veneers: Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials that cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length. Veneers can cover over cracks, chips, discolorations, and large gaps between the teeth. They are significantly more economical than dental crowns or orthodontic treatment.

Dental Bonding: Bonding repairs decayed, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. In this procedure, a tooth-colored, putty-like resin, which is a durable plastic material, is applied to the tooth and hardened with an ultraviolet or laser light, bonding the material to the tooth. Your dentist then trims, shapes, and polishes it. This is the same material used for fillings when you have a cavity. Dental bonding is less durable than veneers, but it is also more economical.

Tooth Contouring: This procedure involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel to change the shape, length, or surface of one or more teeth. The dentist carefully sculpts the tooth using a sanding tool or laser and then polishes it. It’s an ideal solution for people who just need small adjustments or repairs to improve their smile.

Smile More with Cosmetic Dentistry!

Each of these procedures has its own advantages depending on each patient’s individual needs, oral health, and budget. Contact the qualified dentists at the Yuba City Dentistry Group today to determine which method of cosmetic dentistry is right for you!