Some dental procedures might seem unnecessary or reserved for a more...well... elite crowd. Perhaps that comes to mind when you think of cosmetic dentistry.
Whether or not you have the freedom to invest in cosmetic dental care, it's important to not categorize the treatment as Hollywood-esque.
Don't let "appearances" fool you - there's more to cosmetic dentistry than what-meets-the-eye
Smile enhancement will no doubt boost your personal confidence. But along with the aesthetic value there are clinical connections you can expect from cosmetic dental procedures.
The cosmetic-preventive care connection
For example, properly aligned, straight teeth can eliminate issues associated with overcrowding or gaps.
That causes:
- Easier and more effective daily brushing and flossing.
- A reduction in plaque and tartar build-up.
Both of these benefits have strong connection to helping prevent cavities and gum disease.
The cosmetic-restorative care connection
You might not consider a dental implant as having a direct connection to cosmetic treatment. Yet, consider that a gap caused by a missing tooth does indeed have an impact on your appearance.
Beyond filling your missing tooth space, a dental implant restores your tooth function. You'll chew better and your teeth will be less likely to shift out of alignment.
The cosmetic-dental hygiene connection
What you invest in tends to get your attention. That applies to a smile investment.
Attractive, healthy-looking teeth that have received cosmetic dental treatment can cause you to be more disciplined with your oral hygiene habits.
As you make or renew your connection to cosmetic dentistry, let's get more specifc about common cosmetic dental procedures and their benefits.
What are the common cosmetic dental procedures and their related benefits?
Teeth whitening
This treatment would be considered an A-list cosmetic procedure. There's an obvious aesthetic value to be gained from whiter teeth.
Even so, teeth whitening heightens your self-awareness about preserving your appearance and along with it your oral health. For example, you might have an increased desire to avoid habits or lifestyle choice that stain your teeth.
Ask your dentist about diet and lifestyle choices that can dull or yellow your teeth.
Dental veneers
Though thin and minimal looking, veneers make a major difference in how your teeth appear. Alongside the obvious aesthetic benefit, dental veneers can also strengthen and mimic the protective quality of your natural tooth enamel.
Dental bonding
This tooth-colored resin applied to your teeth covers a variety of smile appearance issues.
- Bonding repairs chipped, fractured, or decayed teeth.
- Bonding protects your tooth roots when you experience receding gums.
Dental implants
A quick revisit of this tooth replacement procedure also reveals some deeper oral health benefits. An implant does indeed fill unattractive tooth gaps but there's more to be gained.
- Prevention of bone loss in your jaw.
- Helps maintain the shape of your face and jawline.
- Keeps your adjoining teeth from shifting out of alignment.
And speaking of healthy, aligned teeth...
Invisalign® and braces
These orthodontic procedures have longterm benefits for your smile appearance. Straight and properly aligned teeth also reduce the risk of food being trapped between your teeth.
Where food is easily removed from your teeth, harmful plaque bacteria is less likely to thrive. Orthodontic treatment also helps prevent tooth wear on the front and back portions of your smile-zone (front) teeth.
Dental crowns
Tooth damage can be unattractive and unhealthy if not treated. A dental crown creates a natural-looking tooth colored covering on your treated tooth.
In addition to blending in with your surrounding teeth, a crowned tooth strengthens and protects the underlying tooth structure from further damage or decay.
Gum contouring
This procedure treats what is often referred to as a "gummy smile." Gum contouring removes the excess tissue from your teeth and thus enhances your smile
Less tissue also helps prevent bacteria from thriving beneath your gums and on your tooth surfaces.
There's way more to cosmetic dentistry than Hollywood-appeal. The oral health benefits of common cosmetic dental procedures can also provide practical motivation to take care of your new smile.
Have questions about cosmetic dentistry and/or a specific cosmetic dental treatment?
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