Cosmetic dentistry is a practice that improves the appearance of a patient’s smile. This includes procedures such as teeth whitening, which can dramatically enhance your appearance in less than an hour. It also encompasses more invasive treatments such as dental veneers and dental implants.
Before undergoing any cosmetic dentistry Glendale AZ procedure, it’s important to do your research. Check a cosmetic dentist’s credentials, read reviews, and assess patient testimonials.
Teeth Whitening
Whitening treatments are the safest and quickest way to brighten teeth. A dentist can apply a whitening gel to the surface of the teeth and activate it with a special light.
The treatment can improve tooth discoloration caused by staining, aging, and certain foods or drinks. A dental professional can also provide whitening trays that patients can use at home to bleach their teeth on an ongoing basis. The trays are customized to fit your mouth and are filled with a lower-strength gel.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are wafer-thin shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of your teeth to change their shape, size or color. They can be made from porcelain or resin composite materials. Lumineers are a specific type of ultra-thin veneers that do not require the dentist to remove enamel from the teeth.
Your dentist Glendale AZ prepares your teeth by cleaning, polishing, and roughening them before bonding the veneers with special cement. He or she will then remove any excess cement and evaluate the look of your teeth for final adjustments.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are long-term tooth replacements that can replace missing teeth. They are a great alternative to removable dentures and bridges. They are made of titanium, which is biocompatible. They are also durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
The first step is an initial consultation, which may include 3D dental scans. This will provide critical data to craft a detailed treatment plan.
The initial consultation can be costly, but many clinics offer financing options to help make the procedure more accessible. Some insurance plans also cover the cost of dental implants.
Dental Bonding
Tooth bonding is a cost-effective way to cover cosmetic dentistry Glendale AZ flaws and repair minor injuries. It involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth, molding and shaping it, and then hardening it with a curing light.
Depending on your insurance provider, dental bonding may or may not be covered. It is usually covered if it is for functional reasons, such as filling a cavity or repairing a chipped tooth. However, it is not covered if the bonding is purely cosmetic.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover damaged teeth. They strengthen and restore the tooth’s shape, size and color. They can also anchor a dental bridge and protect a dental implant. They are made of different materials, so it is important to consult with your dentist.
During your first visit, the dentist will scan your mouth with an iTero scanner, which eliminates the need for messy goop to create impressions of your teeth. She will also trim and shape the tooth to ensure it can accommodate a crown.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges fill in the gap left by missing teeth. They are made up of artificial teeth (known as a pontic) that are attached to crowns on healthy adjacent teeth. They help prevent the shifting of remaining natural teeth and improve your ability to chew and speak.
Your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth on either side of the missing tooth by shaving them down and taking an impression. The bridge is then made in a lab and cemented into place.
Dental Fillings
Composite fillings, also called dental resins, are an artificial substance that can be used to repair damaged teeth. They are designed to match the color of a natural tooth, making them aesthetically pleasing and durable.
The most common use for a dental filling is to fix a hole (cavity) in a tooth that has been damaged by decay. They can also be used to repair cracks, chips or tooth wear. The most important benefit is that they are a less invasive way to restore a tooth than other procedures.
Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays use safe levels of radiation to capture images of your teeth and gums. This is an important tool in diagnosing issues like cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth.
The American Dental Association recommends x-rays every 24 to 36 months. However, the frequency of x-rays will vary depending on your age, risk for disease, and other factors.
