Dacula GA Cosmetic Dentist

Veneers can fix teeth that are warn, chipped, discolored, un-matched, crooked, misshapen, or unevenly spaced. A veneer is a thin porcelain laminate that is bonded to the front of the tooth making for a beautiful aesthetic. One of the greatest features of veneers is the amount of tooth that needs to be removed is minimal.

Teeth Whitening or bleaching is a non-invasive way to get rid of tooth stain caused by, coffee, tea, smoking, and aging. The most popular method for bleaching is called at home whitening. A custom tray that fits your teeth exactly will be constructed and a whitening gel is placed in the tray and worn at home. In as little as a week big changes can be seen. Bleaching can cause sensitivity, if this happens wear the trays for a shorter duration and use sensitivity toothpaste. Whitening is a great way to achieve a brilliant white smile. However, not all stains can be corrected using bleaching, in these cases porcelain veneers or crowns may be needed.

Fillings are needed when the decay on a tooth has progressed to the point where natural remineralization cannot occur. The infected tooth structure is removed and replaced with either a composite or amalgam filling.

Composite (tooth colored) fillings are the most popular type of filling today mostly due to the excellent esthetic of this type of filling. Composite filling will match your tooth color. Composite fillings can also be used for chipped, cracked teeth and even closing a gap between teeth.

Bonding is used for teeth that have a gap or are chipped, cracked, or discolored. Bonding uses the same tooth-colored composite resin as fillings. It is bonded to the outer enamel of the tooth and molded into place creating the desired esthetic. In most cases, bonding is not used for long-term esthetics. Porcelain veneers while more expensive last much longer and have a more favorable aesthetic.

A bridge is a great way to permanently replace missing teeth. It is done by placing crowns over anchoring teeth on either side of the open space. These anchoring crowns have artificial teeth attached between them to fill the empty space. This is done by shaping the anchor teeth then taking an impression (mold) to send to the lab for fabrication. A temporary bridge is then placed until the permanent bridge is received from the lab. This can also be done the same day a tooth is extracted, except the temporary bridge will have to be worn for longer to allow for proper healing of the extraction site.

A crown is a lab made “cap” that looks and feels just like a normal tooth that slides down onto a tooth when the structural integrity of that tooth has been compromised. This can be caused by a crack, fractured cusp, large existing filling, extensive decay, or root canal treatment. Crowns can also be used for cosmetic enhancement. A crown will restore all of the tooth’s form and function. The crown can be made from metal, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal. Your Dacula dentist will go over the advantages and disadvantages of each type with you.

Teeth whitening consistently ranks as the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. Its popularity stems from its ability to provide dramatic results with minimal time investment and relatively low cost compared to other cosmetic treatments. Professional teeth whitening, whether performed in-office or through dentist-supervised at-home kits, can lighten teeth by several shades, effectively removing stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, and natural aging. The immediacy of results and the boost in confidence that comes with a brighter smile make this procedure highly appealing to a wide range of patients. However, it’s important to note that while whitening is popular, the best cosmetic procedure can vary depending on individual needs and goals.

The primary difference lies in their focus and additional training. All dentists receive training in cosmetic procedures as part of their dental education. However, a cosmetic dentist typically pursues additional education and training specifically in aesthetic dental procedures. They often dedicate a larger portion of their practice to elective, appearance-improving treatments.

A regular dentist, also known as a general dentist, primarily focuses on oral health, preventive care, and necessary treatments to maintain dental function. They diagnose and treat oral diseases, perform routine check-ups, and handle procedures like fillings, root canals, and extractions.

In contrast, a cosmetic dentist balances health concerns with artistic vision. They specialize in procedures that enhance the appearance of teeth and gums, such as veneers, bonding, inlays and onlays, and smile makeovers. Cosmetic dentists often use advanced technologies and materials to achieve optimal aesthetic results while ensuring the overall health and function of the patient’s mouth.

It’s worth noting that many general dentists also offer cosmetic procedures, and the line between the two can sometimes blur. The key is to choose a dentist with experience and expertise in the specific procedures you’re interested in, regardless of their title.

Yes, cosmetic dentists are fully qualified to fill cavities and perform all general dentistry procedures. In fact, their approach to cavity filling often incorporates both functional and aesthetic considerations. Cosmetic dentists typically use tooth-colored composite materials for fillings, which not only treat the cavity but also blend seamlessly with the natural tooth color.

The use of composite fillings is an excellent example of how cosmetic dentistry principles can enhance even routine dental procedures. Unlike traditional amalgam (silver) fillings, composite fillings are virtually invisible, preserving the natural appearance of the tooth. This aesthetic advantage doesn’t compromise the filling’s durability or functionality.

Moreover, cosmetic dentists might approach cavity treatment with additional considerations. For instance, if a patient has a cavity in a visible tooth and is also interested in improving their smile’s appearance, the dentist might discuss options like veneers or bonding that could address both the cavity and the aesthetic concern simultaneously.

The permanence of cosmetic dentistry varies depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. Some treatments are designed to be long-lasting or permanent, while others may require periodic maintenance or replacement.

Procedures that are considered more permanent include dental implants, porcelain veneers, and dental crowns. On the other hand, more temporary cosmetic treatments include teeth whitening, dental bonding, and composite veneers.

The longevity of any cosmetic dental work is significantly influenced by factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, lifestyle habits (like smoking or drinking staining beverages), and regular dental check-ups. Grinding or clenching teeth can also impact the lifespan of cosmetic work.

It’s crucial to discuss the expected longevity of any cosmetic procedure with your dentist before treatment. They can provide a realistic timeline based on the specific treatment and your individual circumstances. They can also offer advice on how to maximize the lifespan of your cosmetic dental work through proper care and maintenance.

Remember, while some procedures may not be permanent in the strictest sense, they can often be refreshed or redone to maintain your desired smile.