Understanding Cosmetic Dentists
by Lillian Dixon
A cosmetic dentist is a dentist who offers dental services aimed at improving your appearance, especially your smile. For you to understand cosmetic dentistry, you need to know the dental conditions that can affect your smile.
Missing Teeth
You can lose teeth because of an underlying dental condition, a dental disease, an accident or impact from a sport. If you happen to lose some or all of your front or visible teeth, smiling might get problematic for you because you don't want people to see the gaps in your teeth.
A cosmetic dentist can recommend dentures or denture implants. This shows you that dentures and dental implant treatment are services offered by a cosmetic dentist. Both dentures and dental implants fill in missing teeth using artificial teeth or crowns.
Dental implants give great results because they are permanent and have low maintenance. That is why you might find that dental implants are more expensive than dentures. They also require extensive dental surgery that is done in two or three stages, meaning it can take more than two months. Dentures also give good results, but they have high maintenance (taking them out as you sleep, cleaning them and taking precautions not to damage them). You might also need some time to get used to them.
Discoloured Teeth
If you have discoloured teeth, you might also find it problematic smiling; the solution is usually teeth whitening. Always seek teeth whitening services from a qualified cosmetic dentist. Do not try DIY teeth whitening measures or buy over-the-counter teeth whitening products without your dentist's guidance because you are more likely to do more harm than good.
A dentist will use his or her expertise to examine your teeth, carry out some tests and find out why your teeth are discoloured. With such information, it is possible to select the most suitable treatment method; an effective treatment that won't have any side effects.
It is important to note that some discolouration cannot be removed. In such cases, your dentist can recommend alternative treatments like veneers and dental bonding. Additionally, ensure that you discuss with your dentist the level of whiteness to expect so that you are not disappointed.
Crooked and Misaligned Teeth
Crooked and misaligned teeth may also make you feel uncomfortable when smiling. They also make it hard for you to chew your food correctly. A cosmetic dentist might recommend braces or Invisalign. The treatment recommended is based on what is effective for your condition, lifestyle and preference.
You should know that some treatment options might be more expensive than others because of having some additional comfort or aesthetic features.
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About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.