Cosmetic Dentistry is typically considered to be any dental procedure where the primary objective is to improve the appearance of your smile. Tooth Whitening, Veneers, & Porcelain Crowns are some of the procedures most associated with the term Cosmetic Dentistry. However, every Cosmetic Dentist must also take into consideration your overall oral health. No responsible dentist ever wants to create a dental problem just to give you a great smile. Issues such as existing cavities or gum infection and especially correct bite alignment are an integral parts of most Cosmetic Dental procedures.
Cosmetic Dentist Silver Spring MD
The majority of the procedures that fall into the category of cosmetic dentistry are considered elective. Why would one invest in a treatment that will have no effect on their overall oral health? Because they want to feel good about their smile. Multiple studies have demonstrated the power of an attractive smile, from a stronger professional image to higher social confidence. The more a person likes their smile, the more they express it and, the more a person smiles, the more benefits they gain. Plus, in our current culture a straight, white, beautiful smile is associated with beauty, health, social status, and even intelligence.
Cosmetic dentistry treatments eliminate the public humility to hide teeth that are less than perfect. By removing stains, covering chips or other damage, closing gaps, and even replacing lost teeth; cosmetic dentistry can help you have complete confidence in your smile.
Good Candidates for Cosmetic Dentistry
Our first consideration is the general health of the patient’s mouth. Existing dental problems such as tooth decay or inflammation and infection in the gums can degrade the final outcome of any cosmetic treatment. Therefore, attention is given to basic dental needs first. With the foundation of good oral health, it becomes possible to consider various cosmetic options.
The characteristic that is shared among most patients that seek cosmetic dentistry is an interest in improving the appearance of their smile. The particulars of how to achieve this differ from one person to another. Cosmetic dentistry can address numerous concerns, including:
- General discoloration caused by external stains
- Spots on a tooth or teeth caused by fluorosis or intrinsic stains (tetracycline stains)
- Gaps in between teeth
- The slight turning of a tooth or teeth
- Chips or cracks in a tooth or teeth
- Disproportionate teeth sizing related to the length or width of various teeth
- The poor proportion between the gums and teeth (“gummy smile”)