Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Most trips to the dentist have the goal of maintaining or improving your oral health, but visits to the cosmetic dentist are about improving your appearance. Some general dentists offer cosmetic treatments, but sometimes a cosmetic dentist is a better choice. This type of specialist has training and experience targeting the types of procedures focused on enhancing the appearance of your mouth. Here are some of the most popular procedures that cosmetic dentists perform.

Bonding
A simple and quick repair for tooth chips, cracks, stains, and uneven areas is bonding. The dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the tooth, and molds it to the ideal shape. A special light is used to harden it, and then any further shaping and polishing is done to complete the procedure.

Veneers
Very thin porcelain shells called veneers can be adhered to the fronts of your teeth to improve your smile. They hide flaws like stains, worn areas, chips, and gaps. They can also hide crooked or misshapen teeth, often helping you avoid braces if the misalignment isn’t severe. Veneers can last a lifetime if properly maintained.

Teeth whitening
A very common cosmetic treatment, teeth whitening helps you erase the effects of time on your teeth. With use, teeth can become stained and yellowed from foods, beverages, smoking, and age in general. A professional treatment by a cosmetic dentist can provide dramatic and immediate improvements to your smile.

Implants
Dental implants are a great way to restore missing teeth. A very natural-looking and permanent solution, a titanium implant is surgically placed into your jaw. It will heal over a couple of months and fuse with your jaw, and then a crown is placed over the top. This gives you a functional and attractive smile that others won’t even be able to tell was altered.

 

Contact Dr. Smith at our Fresno, CA dental office to schedule a consultation.