If you are looking for advanced cosmetic dentistry, this post is for you! In this short article you will learn about aesthetic dentistry types, procedures, and costs.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry aka aesthetic dentistry (or esthetic dentistry) is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, and bite. This field of dentistry has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the rising demand for aesthetic dental procedures.
Cosmetic dentistry can help to improve the appearance of various dental issues, including crooked or misaligned teeth, stained or discolored teeth, gaps between teeth, chipped or broken teeth, and even missing teeth. There are several cosmetic dental procedures available that can help to correct these issues and create a beautiful, confident smile.
Cosmetic dentistry vs. general dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry are two distinct branches of dentistry, each with its own focus and purpose.
General dentistry is focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases and conditions, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. It includes routine dental services such as dental cleanings, fillings, extractions, and root canals. The primary goal of general dentistry is to maintain the overall health of your teeth and gums.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, and smile. It includes a range of elective procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, and orthodontics (braces or clear aligners). Cosmetic dentistry is often considered an art as well as a science, as it requires a deep understanding of aesthetics and design principles to create natural-looking, beautiful smiles.
Common types of cosmetic dentistry
There are several types of cosmetic dentistry, and the exact number can vary depending on how they are categorized. However, here are some of the most common types of cosmetic dentistry:
■ Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures. This procedure involves the use of a special whitening gel to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. Teeth whitening can be done in a dental office or at home using custom-made trays and a whitening gel.
■ Dental veneers
Another popular cosmetic dental procedure is veneers. v are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to correct a variety of dental issues, including chipped, broken, or misshapen teeth, as well as gaps between teeth and discoloration.
■ Dental implants
Dental implants are another common cosmetic dental procedure. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Implants look and feel like natural teeth and can help to restore the appearance and function of a person’s smile.
■ Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening crooked or misaligned teeth. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to gradually move the teeth into their proper position.
Invisalign is a more discreet and convenient option than traditional braces, as the aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
■ Gum contouring or gum lifting
Gum contouring, also known as gum lifting, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves reshaping or removing excess gum tissue to improve the appearance of the gums and teeth. The procedure can be performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of a tooth. The resin is bonded to the tooth using a special light, and it can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth.
Dental bonding is often used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, cracked, or misshapen. It can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth or to protect exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
Dental bonding is a relatively inexpensive and non-invasive way to improve the appearance of teeth. However, it may not be suitable for more extensive dental issues, and the bonding material may need to be replaced over time.
Cosmetic dentistry cost
The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies depending on the type of procedure, the complexity of the treatment, and the geographic location of the dental practice. Here are some estimated costs of common cosmetic dental procedures:
Teeth whitening cost
The cost of teeth whitening can range from $200 to $1000, depending on the method used, such as in-office bleaching or at-home treatments.
Veneers cost
The cost of veneers can range from $500 to $2000 per tooth, depending on the material used and the complexity of the procedure.
Dental implants cost
The cost of dental implants can range from $1000 to $4000 per tooth, depending on the type of implant used and the complexity of the procedure.
Invisalign cost
The cost of Invisalign treatment can range from $3000 to $8000, depending on the complexity of the case and the length of the treatment.
Gum contouring cost
The cost of gum contouring can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the extent of the procedure, the dentist’s level of expertise, and whether any additional dental work is required.
On average, the cost of gum contouring can range from $50 to $350 per tooth, but it can be more expensive if multiple teeth need to be treated. Additionally, if the procedure is done for medical reasons, it may be covered by dental insurance.
Dental bonding cost
The cost of dental bonding can range from $100 to $400 per tooth, depending on the extent of the bonding needed.
It is important to note that many cosmetic dental procedures are not covered by dental insurance, as they are considered elective. However, some procedures may be covered if they have functional benefits, such as dental implants for missing teeth.
Overall, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of options for improving the appearance of a person’s smile. These procedures can help to boost a person’s self-confidence and improve their overall quality of life. If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist to determine the best treatment options for your individual needs.
