Tips on Using a Cosmetic Dentist

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What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentists specialize in improving the overall appearance of a patient’s smile, including their teeth and gums. Cosmetic dentists can also perform elements of traditional dentistry – that is preventing, diagnosing and treating oral disease – but they more commonly focus on elective and aesthetic dental treatments.

Some elements of cosmetic dentistry have become common practice in traditional dentistry. For example, composite fillings may have once been labelled cosmetic because these tooth-coloured fillings are more aesthetically pleasing than the traditional metal or amalgam fillings, but composite is now the standard material used in most dental fillings. It is also fairly common to see professional teeth whitening kits (or in-office teeth whitening) offered in a traditional or family dental office.

The benefit of going to a cosmetic dentist, however, is that they specialize in these aesthetic techniques and have extensive experience in using them. What’s more, a cosmetic dentist can recommend the best use of an array of cosmetic treatments to improve your smile as a whole.

Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

The American Dental Association has not recognized cosmetic dentistry as a specialty. Therefore, it is very important for the patient to inquire about post graduate cosmetic training. A cosmetic dentist should have extensive post graduate training in cosmetic dentistry and be able to show before and after images of their work.

Popular Treatments in Cosmetic Dentistry

The following are some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments available today. These treatments can be used alone, or as part of a full smile analysis and enhancement.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers is the ultimate in cosmetic dentistry treatments. Ultra-thin shells of porcelain are bonded to the front of the patient’s teeth and allow the dentist to brighten, lengthen and entirely reshape the patient’s teeth. What’s more, porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, and when done correctly, can turn an ordinary smile into an extraordinary smile.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a revolutionary breakthrough in orthodontics; finally adult patients are able to realign and straighten their teeth without metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of unobtrusive clear plastic aligners to gradually straighten the patient’s teeth. Unlike metal braces, the custom-made aligners are changed every two weeks as the teeth gradually move into place. The other benefit of Invisalign is that the clear aligners can be removed easily – during meals or when brushing and flossing.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Cosmetic dentists offer several types of professional teeth whitening; most commonly these are at-home teeth whitening kits or teeth whitening performed in the office using professional grade whiteners and specialized light activators.

Teeth Whitening Kits

Unlike over the counter teeth whitening kits, professional teeth whitening kits use custom-made whitening trays and prescription strength whitening gels unavailable in stores. The cosmetic dentist will then create a customized whitening plan, helping the patient achieve the appropriate level of whiteness for their teeth.

Zoom! Teeth Whitening

Zoom! Whitening System is an in-office teeth whitening treatment. The Zoom! Teeth whitening system uses scientifically formulated hydrogen peroxide gel that, when activated by the Zoom! Light, gently penetrates the teeth to remove stains and discoloration. Unlike teeth whitening kits which can sometimes take weeks to achieve the desired level of whitening, Zoom! can whiten your teeth dramatically in as little time as an hour.

Terry Metcalfe writes on behalf of Designer White and Beauty specialists in

Laser Teeth Whitening

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Tips on Using a Cosmetic Dentist
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