Most people know that cosmetic dentists are able to provide the most effective teeth whitening available. However, you may not be aware of all of the other services that a cosmetic dentist can perform. Here is an explanation of a few of the procedures that are provided by cosmetic dentists.
Tooth Filing
The coloration of your teeth is not the only thing that could cause you to be dissatisfied with your smile. If one or more of your teeth are too large, they could crowd adjacent teeth and cause them to become crooked. Filing the oversized teeth can prevent your teeth from becoming more crooked over time. Filing is also a good solution for teeth with ridges or teeth that are too sharp.
Gum Shaping
Even if the shape and coloration of your teeth is perfect, you may be unsatisfied with your smile due to the shape or size of your gums. Visiting a cosmetic dentist is the perfect way to resolve this problem. Cosmetic dentists can perform a laser surgery procedure known as contouring to increase or decrease the amount of gum tissue that is visible when you smile. Contouring can also be used to level out your gum line so that an even amount of each tooth is visible.
Fillings
Many cavities are only deep enough to affect the dental enamel, while the pulp of the tooth remains undamaged. For these cavities, a filling is all that is required to repair the tooth, so you can visit a cosmetic dentist rather than a family dentist. The cosmetic dentist will be able to determine whether the cavity can simply be filled or whether it is serious enough to require a root canal or other service from your family dentist.
Crown and Bridge Installation
Replacing missing teeth and repairing broken teeth are some of the most significant ways you can improve the appearance of your smile. If you are looking for the most natural-looking options available, dental crowns and crown-supported bridges are the best options.
Crowns made from porcelain or ceramic can be placed over damaged teeth to restore them to a like-new appearance. Crown-supported bridges are rows of prosthetic teeth that are supported by crowns that are placed over adjacent teeth on each side of the bridge. Cosmetic dentists can use both of these techniques to completely eliminate the appearance of even the most unsightly damage to your teeth.
As these examples show, cosmetic dentists can do much more for your teeth than simply whitening them. Keep the services of a cosmetic dentist in mind so that you never have to live with a smile that you aren't happy with.