Basic dentistry focuses on dental health with the emphasis on preventive maintenance. A cosmetic dentist concerns himself more with the appearance of the teeth and the smile. There are some family practitioners who practice limited cosmetic procedures, but there are also dentists whose entire practice is devoted to improving their patients' looks. Regardless of the procedures chosen, patients should be aware that advances in anesthesia and equipment have made all of them virtually painless.
Whitening the teeth is the most popular reason for visiting a cosmetic dentist. He or she can apply a bleaching solution that will result in whiter teeth. Patients who have stained their tooth surfaces with nicotine, red wine, coffee, or other dyes often find it effective in eliminating such stains.
People whose teeth are unevenly spaced, crooked, or discolored beyond the abilities of bleaching often opt for veneers. These are crafted from composites or porcelain to look like teeth. However, they are a very thin layer of material and are glued onto existing teeth. Veneers can be used to cover the entire smile or just one or two teeth.
Teeth can sometimes be repaired by composite bonding. Material is used to fill a cavity or to sculpt a tooth. A special light is then used to harden the material. Because the dentist can match the color and surfaces of the surrounding teeth, the repair is practically invisible.
For patients who have lost one or more teeth, the dentist can craft implants. These are used to replace a missing tooth or to provide a stable anchor for bridges or dentures. Implants are sometimes referred to as crown and post inserts. They typically involve anchoring a post into the jawbone and then attaching an artificial tooth, made by a dental lab, to the post. Depending on the patient's specific situation, one piece implants may also be used.
Some cosmetic dentists specialize in dentures, priding themselves on creating natural looking replacements. If the patient still has a few remaining healthy teeth, dentures can be crafted that fit over these teeth, eliminating the need to extract them. Posts can also be placed to secure the dentures, allowing the patient to speak, eat, and smile without the fear of slippage.
For teeth that are broken or severely decayed, indirect fillings may be used. These are made in a dental lab from either composite or porcelain so that they offer a precision fit. They may be used as inserts or as overlays and are glued securely to the tooth in the dentist's office.
Cosmetic dentists also offer a full mouth makeover. This involves any or all of the tools in his arsenal to make the smile as perfect as is possible. It may begin with whitening, the application of veneers, and the placement of any implants needed. If there are underlying issues with the bite or muscle structure, the dentist will address those as well.
Most cosmetic dentistry is not covered by dental insurance companies, who consider most of the procedures optional. Many, however, will cover restorations if they are needed as a result of an accident or decay. Medical insurance may also provide some coverage for dental work that is required due to injury or illness.
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