Traditional dentistry focuses primarily on maintaining good oral health by preventing disease and cavities of the mouth. While a general dentist treats and prevents diseases and other problems, a cosmetic dentist in Waterloo will be focused on improving the person’s overall appearance and smile. In many cases, cosmetic dentistry can also include fillings since certain materials can be used to help better match the natural color of the teeth. Over time, advancements have been made which influence the trends. Here are a few of the current trends in cosmetic dentistry.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the latest trends in tooth replacements. An artificial root is surgically attached to the bone and a post implanted. Then an artificial tooth is placed on the post. This is becoming more popular than dentures since they are more permanent and allow the recipient to eat things that can’t always be eaten with traditional dentures like corn on the cob or apples.
Smile Makeovers
Another popular trend in Waterloo cosmetic dentistry is a smile makeover. A cosmetic dentist will assess the aesthetics of a smile and develop a treatment to enhance the person’s smile and overall appearance. In most instances, more than one procedure will be used. A dental professional may use any combination of cosmetic procedures such as veneers, implants, teeth whitening and gum sculpting to achieve the patient’s goal.
Reconstruction of the Whole Mouth
When a dentist is making observations about what components to use for a smile makeover, they may discover some functional problems that need to be corrected. They may recommend treatments to correct things like an improper bite, muscle issues, the teeth themselves or the bone structure. Technology and the latest materials available today help dentists provide durable and functional treatments that offer a more natural look.
Veneers
Dental veneers are laminates that bond to the surface of the teeth. They are used to repair cracks or chips and can also help improve the tooth’s appearance if they have a worn appearance or severe staining. Veneers are often recommended if there are gaps between teeth or if whitening treatments have failed to work. The laminates are made from either a composite material or porcelain and bonded to the teeth using a special adhesive.
Teeth Whitening
This is probably one of the most common cosmetic procedures used by dentists today. Teeth can easily become stained from foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene or drinking liquids like tea, coffee or red wine. There are a few DIY teeth whitening options, but having a professional whiten the teeth is the best option and the most likely to be successful. Bleaching, or whitening the teeth can enhance and improve a person’s smile and appearance.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are the latest way to “fill” teeth that have tooth decay or other structural damage. These are made from composite materials or porcelain and are made in a dental lab before they are fitted and bonded into place using a specially designed adhesive.
