Cosmetic Dentistry

Before 1980, dentistry was focused on providing good oral health and stronger teeth. Even though there was evidence of people trying to make their teeth look appealing, the first cosmetic dentistry was practiced in 1980 when resin cement was first invented.

According to archaeological findings, there is evidence of cosmetic dentistry practiced as early as 700 BC. Teeth were found made of ivory, bone and animal teeth were used as dentures. Gold was used to make dental crowns and bridges in 200 AD by the Etruscans.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is the dental practice that focuses on restoring or correcting the general appearance of the teeth and the oral structures in general. Since it is not an official field of dentistry, any dental practitioner can offer cosmetic dentistry, provided the dentist offering cosmetic dentistry is a registered dental practitioner.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

For many people, when they hear of cosmetic dentistry, the first thing that crosses their minds is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is indeed a part of cosmetic dentistry, but there are many more dental procedures available to improve the appearance of your teeth. Here are some of the standard cosmetic dentistry procedures.

1. Dental Implants

Tooth loss is experienced in more than 100 million people in the US according to statistics carried out by the American College of Prosthodontists. Tooth loss can be varied since there are many tooth loss causes. A lost tooth will never regrow unless it is baby teeth and it is for this reason dental implants were invented.

A dental implant is a dental procedure that replaces the natural lost tooth by surgical means. A dental implant consists of a metal frame attached to the jawbone. The metal frame acts as the anchor to artificial teeth.

The cost of a dental implant is broken into three parts: the cost of surgical placement, the cost of the implant parts (abutments) and the crown or denture.

2. Veneers

Teeth tend to wear down with age or due to external factors. The teeth become less appealing due to the imperfections developed, and this is why veneers came to being. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain placed on the teeth to hide the blemishes on your teeth.

Veneers are perfect for those who have discolored, misaligned, broken and worn-out teeth. They also protect the teeth from external elements causing blemishes. While veneers are stain-resistant, your dentist or prosthodontist may recommend that you avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco to maintain the beauty of your new smile.

3. Teeth Whitening

In recent years most people are focused on the appearance of their teeth and find solutions to brighten their smiles. Bad lifestyle habits, age, medication, diseases, some food and drinks are the main reasons for teeth discoloration.

Teeth discoloration can affect the enamel or dentin parts of the teeth. Depending on what type of teeth discoloring your teeth have, your dentist will make several suggestions so that you get the right whitening treatment for you smile. It can be professionally done in the dental office or at home with custom whitening trays.

At Pacific Northwest Prosthodontics, we offer both in-office and at-home teeth whitening. Depending on your particular needs, you’ll be able to choose from tray whitening, paint-on teeth whiteners, teeth-whitening strips, and whitening toothpaste and mouthwash.

4. Dental Bonding

Bonding is a dental procedure that involves coating the teeth with a composite resin that has the color of your teeth. Dental bonding corrects tooth decay, chipped teeth, discoloration and a fractured tooth. It is cheaper than other cosmetic dental procedures but lasts for a shorter time depending on your oral habits.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry might seem to improve the dental appearance of an individual, but there is more to it than just aesthetic factors.

I. Builds Self-esteem

Misaligned or discolored teeth make a lot of people shy away from smiling, and this has led to people avoiding socializing and social events due to lack of confidence in themselves. People who have undergone a cosmetic procedure to correct any teeth anomalies have attested to be confident and smile more than they used to.

Without self-esteem, it is impossible to land or keep a job, and cosmetic dentistry is giving you your smile back so you can have the confidence to engage with people and be productive. In considering cosmetic dentistry as a dental option for yourself you can ask the following questions:

  • Do I hesitate when I smile?
  • Would I like to increase my self-confidence?
  • Do I want to look my best in social or professional situations?
  • Am I ready to reverse any dental imperfections I may have?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, cosmetic dentistry may be the right option for you.

II. Improved Oral Health

Misalignment of teeth can cause dental diseases such as dental cavities. Because of the overlapping nature of some teeth, it is impossible to brush and floss properly leading to building up of food particles which attract bacteria that result in tartar and plaque. If this plaque is left not taken care of, it leads to dental cavities or gum disease, which can lead to you losing your tooth.

III. Makes Teeth Stronger

Teeth weaken when exposed to acidic foods and drinks. They wear down making them weaker and prone to breaking or chipping. When a cosmetic procedure is applied on a tooth that is susceptible to acidic foods and beverages, it is protected.

At Pacific Northwest Prosthodontics, our highly skilled and experienced prosthodontists, Drs. Michael Johnson and Russell Johnson will use cutting-edge techniques and advanced materials to help you create the beautiful, natural looking smile you’ve been dreaming of. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!