Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is the field of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of the mouth (teeth and gums), unlike traditional dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases.
Cosmetic Dentistry is fast becoming one of the most popular fields of dentistry available today. The cosmetic dentist is a relatively new type of dental specialist that has developed as more and more individuals than ever before are looking to their dentist to improve their physical appearance.The evolution of cosmetic dentistry
Technological advancements in recent years have made new dental materials and restorative techniques available to dentists. This progress has helped dentists to address new challenges in cosmetic dentistry and provide to a wider range of their patients much more and affordable options for creating a more attractive appearance through a beautiful smile. Cosmetic dentistry covers a broad range of dental services and procedures that can help to restore a beautiful and healthy smile, often referred to as a "smile makeover". They may include whitening, restorative, prosthodontic, orthodontic, periodontic or even surgical procedures. Cosmetic dentistry does not typically deal with oral hygiene or the treatment of oral diseases, but many dental conventional treatments for these diseases may also provide cosmetic benefits.The need for cosmetic dentistry
Besides the advancements in technology that made cosmetic dentistry more accessible to a wider audience, it is the modern lifestyle that is the main reason for the increased demand for cosmetic dental procedures. A study (2004) of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) showed that almost 75% of the Americans surveyed believe that your chances for success in the workplace could be damaged if you have an unattractive smile. People seek cosmetic dentistry for a variety of reasons. The truth is most people would like their teeth to be straighter, whiter, and pleasing to the eye when they smile. Many people who feel that their smile is unattractive, will rarely smile or cover their mouth with their hand whenever they laugh. This could also influence negatively their self esteem which can impact both personal and professional relationships. Other just want to look younger, and they want to hide the signs of aging on their teeth (such as yellowish color and worn tooth edges). A beautiful smile can make everyone to feel better physically and mentally. A bright healthy smile may boost a person’s self esteem and confidence which could improve his/her performance in every area of life.The cosmetic dentist
Although many of the procedures that may be part of a cosmetic dentistry plan are performed by other dental specialties, it is extremely important that the treatment plan has been created by a cosmetic dentist. There are al lot of factors that must be taken under consideration before deciding what procedures will be needed in order to achieve the best final cosmetic result. Cosmetic dentistry is really more of an art than a science. If you wish to improve your smile, you should visit first a specialized cosmetic dentist who has the necessary training and experience to assess all these factors and propose the necessary treatments, some of which might be performed by other dental specialists that he will recommend. The whole process includes what is usually called a ‘smile makeover’. The cost of cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is generally expensive and it is usually do not covered by dental insurance. Actually cosmetic treatments such as porcelain veneers are some of the most expensive of all dental treatments. If your treatment plan involves several teeth and it requires the involvement of different dental specialists, the cost may increase to significant levels that not everyone can afford. However some times a level of cosmetic improvement may be achieved in a more affordable way. As an example, instead of a full smile makeover that would require several porcelain veneers or crowns, your dentist may recommend a tooth whitening, the replacement of old amalgam fillings, and some enamel shaping if needed. The result will improve significantly your appearance at a fraction of the cost.Related pages
Cosmetic dentistry procedures
Cosmetic dentistry and dental insurance
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