Cosmetic Dentistry Basics

Is a Dental Makeover Right for You?

The field of cosmetic dentistry has come a long way in recent years, due to medical advances and an increase in demand. Thanks to reality television programs like Extreme Makeover, cosmetic dentists and doctors have reaped success.

Although most dentists do some cosmetic procedures, some dentists deal exclusively in cosmetic treatments and surgery that restores weak, loose or broken teeth to improve appearance. It should come as no surprise that the practice of restoring teeth is touted as a means to restore  self-confidence and achieve success.

Bleaching is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure. Bleaching erases stains on discolored teeth, darkened by too many cups of coffee or tea, too much red wine or too many cigarettes. One method used begins with the dentist taking an impression of the teeth. The impression model is filled with jelly-like hydrogen peroxide (bleach) and refitted to the teeth. A fluoride treatment is used to complete the procedure. The bleaching process is fairly risk-free, as long as it's not overdone, leaving teeth unnaturally white, and the bleach does not come in contact with the gums.

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