There have been a lot of talks about the differences, if there are, between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist, especially between patients. Although the American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty, it’s one of the fields dentists can choose to specialize in and practice. However, the goals of the two fields are to help patients have a great smile through various cosmetic procedures. The role of a general dentist is to carry out procedures such as cleaning of the teeth, filling up teeth cavities, root canals, and repairing the teeth. In addition, a dentist can also perform procedures such as teeth whitening, and dental bonding. Although the dentist might achieve a good result, the goal of a dentist might not necessarily be aesthetics, but only to keep the teeth healthy. The role of a dentist is to keep the teeth disease free and to also fix problems and painful conditions associated with the teeth. On the other hand, a cosmetic dentist usually goes on special training and programs in this area. The goal of the cosmetic dentist is to ensure that the teeth, dentition, and smile of the patient are near perfect, if not perfect. Some of the common dental procedures performed by the cosmetic dentist include dental implants, porcelain veneers, bleaching the teeth professionally, setting braces, bridges and so on. While the cosmetic dentist ensures the teeth of the patient is healthy and in good shape, he also focuses on the appearance of it. Just like the name implies, they’re particular about the beauty of the teeth. To become a cosmetic dentist, you must first be a dentist, then improve your training by going for further training and education.
What Is Considered Cosmetic Dental Work?
Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dentistry which focuses on the professional care of the teeth and also improving the look of the teeth, mouth, and smile. The majority of cosmetic dental work is elective, and not an emergency. Some of the common cosmetic dental work include the following;
- Inlays and Onlays: This procedure is also known as indirect fillings. These fillings are made in the laboratory. Cosmetic dentists use this when a tooth has undergone moderate decay, or when there is no sufficient tooth structure in the mouth to support a filling. The dentists would position the inlay directly onto the surface of the tooth. If a large amount of the tooth is destroyed, an only is used to cover the entire surface of the tooth. Inlay and Onlays are made from composite resin material. They then attach them to the teeth using adhesive dental cement. Inlays and Onlays are the kind of dental procedures that prevent the decay and damage of the teeth. In addition, they also strengthen the teeth, reshape the shape of the teeth and so on.
- Composite bonding: Composite bonding is a procedure that is performed in the teeth. In composite bonding, the abnormal teeth conditions such as damaged, decayed or discolored teeth are repaired using materials that looks the same as the color of the tooth enamel. The dentist would first drill out the part of the tooth that is decayed, damaged, and apply a portion of the composite on the surface. He then shapes and polishes the affected tooth to match the other teeth. This repairs the decayed or damaged teeth and improves the overall appearance of the teeth. Apart from making the outlook of the teeth better, it also makes the teeth healthy. Composite bonding is a relatively cheap procedure that helps patients eliminate dental conditions such as tooth decay, chipped teeth, and crooked edges.
- Dental veneers: Dental veneer is materials that are used by dentists. They are made from quality ceramic, and they look a lot like the natural teeth. In fact, it’d be difficult to identify it from the natural teeth. They are used to solve many dental problems. Some of the dental problems that dental veneers are used for include cracked teeth, crooked teeth and damaged enamel fill gaps between teeth. A skilled orthodontist can successfully apply the veneer with a dental adhesive. Another type of veneer is the porcelain veneer. This type of veneers is thin and custom-made. They do cover the front of the teeth. The veneers can successfully repair and reposition the teeth, poorly shaped teeth, damaged teeth, and discolored teeth.
- Dental bonding: This is a process in which the dentist uses a tooth-colored resin. This is a usually tough and durable plastic material. The dentist would use an ultraviolet or laser light to attach the material to the tooth. Afterward, the dentist would reshape, trim and polish it. This dental procedure can be used to repair cracked, decayed and also align the teeth.
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are used for the treatment of damaged teeth or lost tooth. The dentist does this by placing a piece of titanium, and attaches it to the jaw, at the place where the tooth is missing that supports a crown. It’d be difficult to identify any difference between the implants and the natural teeth. The process would be a lot smoother if the patient’s gum is in good condition, and also has sufficient bone in the teeth. The patient has to maintain a good oral hygiene even after the implant has been done. It’s important to see speak to a dentist if you’ve lost a tooth or needs your tooth to be replaced due to traumas or any other cause.
Is Cosmetic Dental Work Cover By Insurance?
Dental insurance does not usually cover the cost of cosmetic treatments. Although, insurance covers some dental procedures, while others are not covered. Almost no procedure, with the exception of preventive care, is covered fully by dental insurance. It’s important to inquire about what procedures are covered by an insurance plan before subscribing to it. Procedures like teeth whitening will not be covered by insurance. You should speak to your dentist about what procedures are covered by insurance.
Are Clear Braces Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?
Clear braces are ones that are made from a mold of the patient’s teeth, which would look like a think mouth guard. They are almost invisible when worn. In fact, people might not know the patient is wearing one. Clear braces can be categorized under cosmetic dentistry because its appearance is one of the reasons it was created.
Cosmetic Dentist Near Me
You should contact a dentist near you if you have any problems or experience any dental discomfort. Also, cosmetic dentists can help you enhance the appearance of your teeth, smile and mouth. Orthodontia is often included. Find the best orthodontist near me.
References
2013 Annual Scientific Meeting: Global Innovations and Controversies in Cosmetic Surgery. (2012). American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery, 29(4), pp.298-330.
Niamtu, J. (2011). Cosmetic Otoplasty. American Journal of Cosmetic Surgery, 28(4), pp.261-272.
Shiffman, M. (2001). Beauty in Cosmetic Surgery. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology, 3(4), pp.233-234.
Shiffman, M. (2003). Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Cosmetic Surgery. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology, 5(2), pp.111-111.
