Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the health, function, and aesthetic appearance of the teeth, gums, and jaw. Although such procedures are not unusual, their specifics purposes are not widely known. To participate more in your oral care, it’s good to improve your understanding of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures.

6 FAQs About Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures 

1. What is teeth whitening?

Most people opt for teeth whitening to look their best for special occasions, like summer vacations or weddings. Your dentist removes the plaque and tartar from your teeth. Bleach can be used to get rid of stains and help them look whiter. In addition to killing harmful bacteria that could affect your teeth, teeth whitening can boost your confidence by giving you a bright smile. 

2. What are dental veneers?

If you have crooked, cracked, or widely spaced teeth, your dentist can provide dental veneers. These consist of medical grade ceramic or porcelain that is molded  into the shape of your natural teeth. The mold is laid over your teeth to conceal discoloration, stains, cracks, and chips, protecting the teeth from further damage. Veneers can make your teeth look naturally brighter and cosmetically improve your smile.

3. What are dental crowns?

Also made of porcelain, dental crowns have a similar function and purpose as veneers, but each one covers an entire tooth, not just the top. Crowns are used when a tooth is compromised. They strengthen your tooth against additional wear and can hide cracks, chips, decay and stains. Again, your dentist will mold each crown for your mouth before inserting them to ensure that the look is seamless and comfortable.

4. What is dental bonding?

Bonding has the same goal as crowns and veneers, but it’s a less expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure. After getting rid of all signs of decay in your teeth, your dentist uses a composite resin bonding made from plastic and glass to cover smaller surface areas, molding them to their shapes. They make your teeth appear whiter and healthier.

5. What are inlays and onlays?

If your tooth is decaying, but there isn’t enough of it left to support a filling, a dentist will suggest an inlay or onlay. Like bonding, inlays and onlays are comprised of composite resin. If the surface of the tooth is strong enough, the dentist places an inlay over it to replace the area where the cavity was and to hide discoloration and signs of damage. This also strengthens the tooth. An onlay is used for the same effect but they encases the entire tooth in situations where the surface of the tooth is compromised.

6. What are dental implants?

Dental implants are ideal for replacing missing teeth and preventing you from experiencing a host of other medical problems that are influenced by a misaligned jaw, including sleep apnea, digestive issues, persistent headaches, joint pain, and speech problems. Your dentist places an anchor into the site of the missing tooth, waits a few weeks for it to fuse with your jaw bone and tissue, then inserts a titanium tooth explicitly sculpted for your mouth onto the anchor. If you need to inquire further about which cosmetic dental procedures are best for you, contact Hulse Dental, your family dentist.

For twenty years, Hulse Dental has been providing cosmetic dentistry along with family dentistry to the residents of Onalaska, WI. Dr. Hulse prioritizes his patients’ comfort, health, and confidence above all else, using only the latest technology and techniques. For an overview of all the services he offers, call (608) 783-1306 or visit his website.