Saturday, December 3, 2011

New Techniques in Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry has rapidly moved forward in recent years thanks to us patients. We paid attention and learned how to take care of our dental health. We eat a healthy diet, brush at least twice each day, floss, and have regular cleanings and check ups. What is our reward? Huge strides forward in cosmetic dentistry to take our healthy, cared-for mouths to new heights of aesthetics.

If you have a dental issue having anything to do with your very-important-in-every-way smile your cosmetic dentist is prepared to address it. Because there are many conditions your cosmetic dentist is trained and prepared to help you with, let's take a look at some of these rewards; some of these techniques may be new to you. A brighter smile ranks up toward the top of the cosmetic-dentistry wish list for many of us. Discolored teeth have many origins including genetics, medications, even a love of coffee or tea, and there are just as many whitening methods to consider. Whitening chemicals may be used in the cosmetic dentist's office or in your home.

Another procedure may be to remove the discolored top layer of tooth exposing a brighter smile. The amount of whitening to be achieved with varying methods will be explained by your cosmetic dentist along with how long you might expect the result to last. Tooth bonding is another newer technique using tooth-colored composite resin materials to correct a number of dental flaws. This method of adhering thin layers of composite resins to tooth surfaces is another conservative cosmetic dentistry offering. Bonding these materials to tooth surfaces can be used to correct or repair any teeth that might be affected by decay, discoloration, undesirable shape or positioning, even narrow gaps between teeth can be repaired with this technique. Bonding procedures can frequently be completed during one office visit; more complex restorations may require a second appointment.

Additional techniques available through cosmetic dentistry advancements are veneers made of composite materials or porcelain. These restorations along with bonding can be used to treat discolored teeth and also to subtly change the shape or contour of teeth frequently circumventing a need for orthodontia. A veneer might be placed directly on the tooth surface and be completed during one office visit. Should a larger or more involved treatment be called for an impression of the tooth will be made and an indirect veneer fabricated by a dental laboratory to be bonded during a subsequent visit.

Your cosmetic dentist is also well versed in advancements with regard to crowns. These are restorations used to cover an entire tooth surface when age, grinding or bite may contribute to a wearing down, and strengthening of the tooth is called for. Your cosmetic dentist will discuss with you the options to consider in the repair of your particular tooth; crowns can be made in the laboratory from resins, porcelain, porcelain bonded to metal, and gold. Crowns do require two office appointments which are usually two weeks apart. We have just scratched the surface of the new technologies available through cosmetic dentistry. These new technologies affect many facets of dentistry: alternatives to braces, how implants are used, better filling materials and the list goes on and grows on. Ask your dentist about the advancements in cosmetic dentistry and how your smile might benefit; you will be amazed.

Riley Cooper is a dental care specialist and author. He has just begun to write dental articles for Cosmetic Dentistry Houston. Read all of his articles there.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Riley_N_Cooper
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By Riley N Cooper

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