Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
Simply put, “cosmetic dentistry” is a type of dentistry whose main function is to improve the appearance of a person’s teeth and smile. Of course, many types of dental procedures can accomplish this: if a person starts out with attractive teeth, then regular cleaning and attention to oral hygiene can beautify the smile merely by preserving it from decay. If the smile has become damaged, then “restorative dentistry” can improve it: even if installed to fix injury to the teeth or to replace those that are missing, dental implants, crowns, dentures and partial dentures, and bridges can definitely result in aesthetic improvement. Finally, orthodontics can do wonders for the smile, as orthodontia typically results in straight teeth that are more appealing to the eye. Nevertheless, the primary purpose of routine maintenance, restorative dentistry, and orthodontics is to preserve and improve the health and function of the teeth and bite, and if the appearance is enhanced, this is merely a bonus.
By contrast, the main purpose of cosmetic dentistry is the improvement of the appearance of the teeth and smile. However, cosmetic dentistry can also have beneficial side effects of its own. What are some cosmetic dental procedures? And what are some health benefits that can result?
Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Several of the procedures already mentioned will qualify as cosmetic dental procedures if they are not required for the health of the teeth. Teeth that are not so out of alignment as to pose risks to the bite or to the teeth themselves can be straightened using braces or Invisalign, which is becoming especially popular for cosmetic purposes. Similarly, teeth that are otherwise healthy but in an unusual shape can have their appearance improved by tooth contouring and dental bonding (which can also fix gaps that are not dangerous but may be unsightly).
Perhaps the most popular cosmetic procedures are those which aim to whiten the teeth. This includes laser whitening, which uses a potent whitening gel with intensive light for rapid tooth whitening, or the placement of veneers (which can not only whiten but can also reshape teeth and close gaps at the same time).
Advantages of cosmetic dentistry – confidence
People are frequently reluctant to display features that they consider to be unattractive, and a smile is no different. However, hiding a smile can be much more difficult than disguising a slight belly or overly thin arms due to the way a smile (or lack of it) can be perceived by others. Although this is not true everywhere, in the modern United States a smile tends to send signals of happiness, relaxation, comfort, approval, and even certainty. The lack of one may result in a person coming across as hesitant, timid, uneasy, upset, or annoyed. This can add to a lack of self-confidence and can even contribute to social anxiety.
Cosmetic dentistry can ease this self-consciousness and can cause a corresponding increase in confidence. A brightened, straightened smile that is frequently displayed may also cause a change in interpersonal relationships, which may add different reasons to smile.
Advantages of cosmetic dentistry – overall oral health
Restorative dentistry and orthodontia undertaken for health purposes can often have cosmetic benefits. On the other hand, purely cosmetic dentistry can lead to enhanced oral health. It is not hard to imagine that those who have recently had teeth whitened, straightened, or improved with veneers will want to protect and prolong their smile’s beauty, and increased attention to flossing and brushing can improve oral health – advantages that can help even with teeth that have not been treated. Additionally, a chipped tooth may not be at risk at the moment but could pose a risk in the future. A chip that is repaired by bonding can ensure that never occurs since the resin which is used is of the same sort used in fillings and can accomplish the same purpose.
Taking the next steps
If the gains of cosmetic dentistry sound appealing, an excellent first step is to consult a dentist. Those in the Okemos area can find all the information they need from Dr. Christine Tenaglia, who brings decades of experience to all the cosmetic treatments mentioned above. Appointments can be made on the website or by telephone at (517) 940-8684. The first steps toward a better, brighter smile may be just a click or a phone call away.