What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Though there is not yet currently a formal specialty in the field of cosmetic dentistry, the degree to which a General Dentist can treat the most complicated of cosmetic requests will depend on their training. There are many types of cosmetic dental treatments, some being more complex than others. Whitening, or perhaps more commonly referred to as bleaching, is the most common procedure because it is simple and almost everyone has some degree of staining on their teeth. Enamel shaping is used to help shape a tooth that has perhaps become chipped, and contour is used to reshape teeth. In some cases a person may be able to undergo contouring as an alternative to having braces. Bonding actually puts enamel-like substance directly onto the surface of a tooth to sculpt its shape. Dental Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. Fake teeth, called pontics, are placed in the gap where a tooth has been knocked out. These can reduce the risk of gum disease and even improve speech, though they require good oral hygiene to keep clean. Vaneers are another option for disguising stained teeth that are not as successful with bleaching. A Gum Lift reshapes the gum line, sometimes involving reshaping the bones to create the illusion of symmetrical or more lengthy teeth.