Cosmetic Dental Applications To Improve The Look Of Your Teeth

Posted on: 13 June 2019

Cosmetic dentists, like those at Picone Dental - Vincent J Picone DDS, are trained to improve the appearance of the teeth. A more attractive smile can increase a patient's confidence, helping them enjoy a more fulfilling life. 

Here are a few applications that are used in cosmetic dentistry.

Veneers

Dental veneers are versatile cosmetic devices. Shaped like teeth, they are fashioned from a mold or impression of the patient's oral cavity. 

A veneer is made of white dental material, such as porcelain or resin. The material's color can be matched to the natural color of the patient's teeth, or a desired shade of white can be selected. 

Each veneer is a super-thin shell that can be attached to the front surface of a tooth to conceal blemishes or imperfections. Cracked, misshapen, chipped, and discolored teeth can be made to appear perfect in shape and color. 

Before a veneer can be applied, the tooth must be prepared to receive the device. The dentist removes a tiny amount of tooth enamel from the front surface of the tooth, allowing the veneer to fit into the space left by the missing layer of tooth material. This method of application also permits the border of the veneer to match the natural bite line of the patient. 

A complete set of veneers can be used to cover all of the teeth that are exposed as a patient smiles. However, if only one tooth displays cosmetic blemishes, a single veneer can be applied to match the tooth to the patient's other teeth.

Once the veneer is in place, it is deemed permanent. If it becomes damaged, only a dentist can remove and replace it. A veneer is not easily damaged. However, a replacement device may be required if the gums recede, revealing the uncovered portion of the tooth.

Chemical Whitening

The tooth enamel can be whitened using chemical bleaches that are considered safe for dental applications. The bleaching compounds are applied to the teeth for a set period and then removed after the allotted time. While on the teeth, the products may be subjected to a bright light that intensifies their whitening effects. 

Dental bleaches can whiten the teeth by several shades after a single application. However, the bleaches are only effective for enamel stains that come from food, tobacco, or other staining substances that the patient may have ingested. Discoloration from a birth defect or medicinal side effects is considered permanent and can only be improved using concealing applications, such as veneers.

To learn about additional cosmetic dental services, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your area.

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