Cosmetic Dentistry: Everything You Need to Know
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that deals with improving the appearance of the smile and facial harmony. Its goal is to make patients feel more confident and happy with their image, which has a positive impact on their self-esteem and emotional well-being.
A perfect smile: how cosmetic dentistry can improve your appearance and self-confidence
“A beautiful and healthy smile is one of the best calling cards we can have”.
A smile can convey confidence, friendliness, joy and professionalism. On the contrary, a neglected or flawed smile can create insecurity, rejection or embarrassment.
Cosmetic dentistry can help you to correct those problems that stop you from smiling naturally and fully. Whether it’s because of the colour, the shape, the size or the position of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry has solutions for every case.
The most common cosmetic dentistry procedures: teeth whitening, veneers and more
Among the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures are:
- Teeth whitening, which consists of applying a whitening agent on the teeth to remove the stains and lighten the shade.
- Dental veneers, which are thin sheets of porcelain or composite that are stuck to the surface of the teeth to improve their shape, colour or alignment.
- Dental crowns, which are caps that cover the whole tooth to restore its shape, function and aesthetics.
- Dental implants, which are titanium screws that are inserted into the bone to replace the roots of the lost teeth and on which the dentures are placed.
- Orthodontics, which is the treatment that corrects the position of the teeth and the bite with fixed or removable appliances.
- Gingivoplasty, which is the surgery carried out to reshape the contour of the gums and remove the excess gum tissue.
Considerations before undergoing a cosmetic dentistry treatment
Before undergoing a cosmetic dentistry treatment, you should bear in mind some important aspects:
- Choose a qualified professional with experience in cosmetic dentistry. At Clínica Dental Doctores Tarazona we have a team of experts in each area who’ll advise you and offer you the best options for your case.
- Inform yourself well about the procedure, the benefits, the risks, the care and the cost of the treatment. At Clínica Dental Doctores Tarazona we’ll explain everything you need to know and resolve all your doubts.
- Have realistic expectations about the results. Cosmetic dentistry can improve your smile, but it can’t change your personality or your life. Be aware of your motivations and your goals when undergoing a cosmetic treatment.
- Maintain good oral hygiene and follow the dentist’s instructions. For the results to be lasting and satisfying, it’s essential to look after your mouth before, during and after the treatment. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, use dental floss and mouthwash, avoid tobacco and the drinks that stain the teeth and go to periodic check-ups.
Lasting results: how to maintain and care for your smile after a cosmetic treatment
After undergoing a cosmetic dentistry treatment, it’s normal to want to enjoy your new smile for a long time. For this, you should follow some recommendations:
- Avoid the foods and drinks that can damage or stain your teeth or your dentures. Some examples are coffee, tea, wine, fizzy drinks, citrus fruits, red berries, chocolate, sweets or nuts.
- Don’t use your teeth to open bottles, cut threads or bite hard objects. This can cause fractures, cracks or the detachment of your veneers, crowns or dental implants.
- Use a night guard if you suffer from bruxism. Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding the teeth, which can cause wear, sensitivity or pain in the teeth and the gums. A night guard is a device that’s placed in the mouth at night to avoid the contact between the teeth and protect them from damage.
- Go to the dentist regularly to keep track of your treatment and detect possible problems. The ideal is to visit the dentist every six months or once a year, according to your case.
>>> This post may interest you: Bruxism: Are there solutions?
Is cosmetic dentistry right for you? Factors to consider and frequently asked questions
Cosmetic dentistry is right for you if:
- You have some aesthetic problem in your smile that affects you on a personal, social or professional level.
- You’re healthy and don’t have any disease or condition that contraindicates the treatment.
- You have good oral health and don’t have cavities, periodontal disease or infections.
- You’re willing to invest time and money in improving your smile.
Some frequently asked questions about cosmetic dentistry are:
- Is the treatment painful? Most cosmetic dentistry treatments aren’t painful, as they’re carried out under local anaesthetic. However, there may be some discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure, which can be relieved with painkillers or anti-inflammatories.
- How long does the treatment last? The time the treatment lasts depends on its type and complexity. Some treatments, such as teeth whitening, can be done in a single session. Others, such as veneers or dental implants, require several visits to the dentist and an adaptation period.
- How much does the treatment cost? The cost of the treatment varies depending on the procedure, the materials and the clinic chosen. At Clínica Dental Doctores Tarazona we offer you personalised quotes tailored to your needs. In addition, we have payment facilities and financing so that you can access the treatment you want.
If you want to know more about cosmetic dentistry and how it can improve your smile, contact us and book your appointment. At the Clínica Dental Doctores Tarazona we’re waiting for you with a big smile 😊
