A cosmetic dentist can help correct tooth imperfections and enhance a smile's appearance. From whiter teeth to overall smile improvement, cosmetic dentistry has something to offer just about everyone. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, here is some key information to help you decide if it is right for you.
Overview of cosmetic dentistry
Any dental treatment where the key goal is to improve how teeth look can fall under cosmetic dentistry. Furthermore, cosmetic dentistry is not an official dental specialty but an area of dentistry concerned with improving the smile's appearance. Therefore, any dentist who offers cosmetic dentistry services can call themselves a cosmetic dentist. For this reason, we recommend seeking a cosmetic dentist who appears to invest in additional training and certifications in cosmetic dentistry and one with ample experience in the procedure one is interested in.
Popular smile-enhancing procedures
Here is a closer look at smile-enhancing treatments specific to cosmetic dentistry. Though a cosmetic dentist can recommend restorations like crowns, inlays, and teeth straightening treatments for cosmetic reasons, the following treatments are solely cosmetic. These procedures are available individually or as part of a smile makeover plan.
Teeth whitening
A leading reason people see a cosmetic dentist is the desire for whiter teeth. Professional teeth whitening can take several forms. Some cosmetic dentists offer in-office whitening treatments that are sometimes enhanced with lasers or a special light. However, most dentists offer a take-home system with custom-made trays and a professional whitening solution.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding is a versatile procedure that can fix tooth imperfections. The dentist applies a tooth-colored cosmetic resin to the teeth, shapes it, and hardens it with a special light. This procedure can fix minor chips and cracks, create a more aesthetically pleasing tooth shape, and even cover discolorations that do not respond to teeth whitening.
Dental veneers
These thin tooth-colored shells cover the parts of the teeth that are visible when a person smiles. A dentist can solve several cosmetic issues by placing a set of these porcelain or composite-resin veneers over the natural teeth. Dental veneers can create a smile uniform in tooth color, shape, and size. In addition, a set of veneers can make a smile appear straighter.
Who is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
Almost anyone who wants to improve some aspect of their smile is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry. However, the teeth and gums need to be healthy. The patient also needs to commit to taking good care of their teeth. It is important that the patient has realistic expectations of the final results and follows the dentist's preparation and aftercare guidelines.
Let us help you enhance your smile
Those looking to improve their smile should consider seeing a cosmetic dentist. Our team provides a range of cosmetic services to people in Honolulu and the surrounding area. Call us today to learn more.
Request an appointment or call Diamond Head Dental Care at 808-450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.
Recent Posts
A beautiful smile can be a powerful asset. It can affect first impressions, social interactions, and even your self-esteem. A cosmetic dentist improves the look of teeth and provides solutions to turn ordinary smiles into extraordinary ones. The treatment options typically depend on your preferences and needs.Patients looking to transform their smiles can book an…
Cosmetic dentists offer a variety of treatments that enhance the appearance of your smile. While these procedures are typically elective rather than essential, some cosmetic dental treatments also provide restorative benefits, improving the overall function of your teeth. Understanding these common treatments can help you decide which one is right for you.Over time, teeth can…
A cosmetic dentist can improve the overall appearance of your smile thanks to dental veneers. This cosmetic treatment can improve the color and shape of your teeth and give you a more uniform smile that appears well-aligned. If you are looking for overall smile improvement, a cosmetic dentist can help determine if dental veneers are…