| By :
Stephen Daniels
Cosmetic dentistry refers to a broad range of procedures that enhance the overall look of your teeth and smile. Traditionally, cosmetic changes meant going to an orthodontist to slowly rearrange teeth with braces. And this remains essential for correcting many conditions, such as overbites and under-bites. But improvements in technology have made relatively quick and pain-free adjustments to a tooth's color, shape and surface. Even if your teeth are poorly aligned, some options actually can change the appearance of the jaw line. Veneers are a popular option to correct and repair chips, cracks and broken teeth. Depending on the condition of the tooth or teeth, this can range from a relatively simple process to a much more complicated procedure. Your dentist can help you understand what will be required and what to expect. Veneers are generally made to match your current teeth color, so if having sparkling white teeth is normal for you, make sure the veneer coloring matches, especially for teeth that show when you smile. Teeth whitening, the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure, can cast a white glow across your entire smile. To reduce stains accumulated from smoking, coffee, tea, red wine or poor oral hygiene, the dentist bleaches outer surfaces of the teeth. While there are teeth-whitening kits widely available for home use, dental procedures tend to produce whiter smiles that last longer than home remedies. Inlays/onlays, also known as indirect fillings, are made from porcelain or composite materials. The result is a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing repair for tooth decay and structural damage. Inlays are first shaped in a dental laboratory before a dentist fits and bonds them into place during one session. At times, a dental implant is needed to replace a lost tooth. These sometimes costly substitutes use an artificial tooth root (post) that attaches to the jaw. In some instances though, one can attach an implant to the surrounding teeth with a simple bridge. The result is not just a natural smile, but a more solid jaw structure as well. If you'd like a comprehensive assessment of your smile aesthetics, a smile makeover combines several techniques to optimize the look of your smile. Typically, veneers, bonding, implants and teeth whitening all work together to achieve the look you are seeking. For the patient's comfort, oral sedation dentistry is used during many procedures. This comfortable application provides a relaxed and calm state. While it can also be done through an IV, most people don't require such high-level sedation during cosmetic procedures. Dental plans cover some costs. Crowns, for example, are partially covered since the main purpose is to repair a structural problem affecting the overall health of your mouth. Keep in mind that functional and restorative dentistry is usually covered, while purely cosmetic dentistry rarely is. And a complete smile makeover can be quite costly. Shop around and compare dentists' fees and experience. Sometimes you might even find free teeth whitening for new patients getting an initial exam, x-rays and cleaning.
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