What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. It is not considered essential or necessary from a health standpoint, but it can restore confidence in your smile and make you feel more self-assured.

The most common cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and tooth and gum contouring.

cosmetic dental procedures

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. It includes a variety of procedures such as teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, tooth and gum contouring, and more.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dental procedure. It involves the use of professional teeth whitening products to lighten the shade of your teeth and brighten your smile. This procedure can be done in-office or at home. In-office whitening takes about one hour to complete, while at-home whitening usually takes a couple of weeks.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding involves the application of tooth-colored composite resin to cover up and conceal cosmetic imperfections such as cracks, craze lines, discoloration, and more. Dental bonding can also change the shape of a tooth to make it longer, wider, or more uniform. It usually needs replacing every five to seven years and doesn't require the removal of natural tooth enamel, which means it's completely reversible.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin, strong shells made of medical-grade ceramic that adhere to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can conceal a wide range of cosmetic flaws, including chips, cracks, and discoloration. There are many types of veneers, including traditional and minimal prep. All veneers require at least some removal of natural enamel, which means they could be reversible depending on which kind you choose. In most cases, porcelain veneers need replacing every 10 years or so.

Tooth Contouring

Tooth contouring is a procedure that removes small amounts of enamel to change the shape of your teeth. This procedure can be completed during a single office visit. Your dentist can reshape your teeth to create a more balanced, symmetrical, and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring is a procedure that removes excess gum tissue and reshapes your gum line for a more symmetrical, balanced appearance. This procedure is typically performed when a person is born with excess gum tissue, which can make the smile appear "gummy" or unbalanced.

Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is not just for kids. More and more adults are seeking treatment from orthodontists for cosmetic purposes. If you have buck teeth or crooked teeth, an orthodontist can help.

It's important to note that as long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you can pursue cosmetic dental treatments. However, if you have extensive cavities or gum disease, your dentist will want to address those conditions first. Once your smile is healthy again, you can decide which cosmetic treatments you want to explore.

It's important to note that while cosmetic dentistry can improve the appearance of your smile, it does not usually cover the cost of these procedures. Insurance companies often do not consider cosmetic procedures essential or necessary from a health standpoint.

If you're considering cosmetic dentistry, it's recommended to consult with a dentist to discuss your options and get an idea of the costs involved. There are various options to suit different budgets, and the best way to save money on cosmetic dentistry procedures is by taking good care of your teeth. 

Wilson East Dental Care is a highly-rated dental clinic in Ancaster, known for its top-quality dental treatments and advanced technology. In conclusion, Wilson East Dental Clinic in Hamilton is a trusted dental clinic in Ancaster that offers top-quality cosmetic dentistry services. Their team of experienced dentists is dedicated to providing a comfortable and professional dental experience for all their patients.