Cosmetic dentistry includes treatments and procedures that improvise the appearance of the teeth and help the patient feel good about themselves. Various procedures like teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental braces, etc. come under this category. Let us try to understand some procedures in cosmetic dentistry that can make the patient look and feel younger.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening procedures can make teeth look brighter and whiter. Bright teeth also improve the appearance of the face and help the patient feel good about themselves.

The procedure involves the application of a teeth-whitening gel or solution over the surface of the teeth. This solution contains whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide. It is left on the teeth for a few minutes and then activated with the help of laser light. The teeth are observed under this light and the light is removed when the desired shade is achieved. It is essential to carefully observe the teeth as the laser will be causing a quick change in shade and hence the wrong shade of teeth may be achieved. It is also necessary to decide the shade of teeth according to the patient’s complexion and skin tone, to make them look natural and beautiful.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Porcelain veneers

Veneers are thin coverings or shells that are worn on the surface of the teeth. These are worn to improve the appearance of the teeth and straighten them. Dental veneers can be mainly made of two materials porcelain and resin. Porcelain veneers are a better choice than resin veneers as they are good at resisting stains as compared to resin veneers. Various problems of teeth like broken teeth, discoloured teeth, uneven teeth, teeth with gaps, etc. are solved with the help of veneers. A beautiful, even smile can make the patient look more youthful and radiant.

The procedure for porcelain veneers begins with an examination of teeth, which may include X-rays and intraoral photographs. A local anaesthetic will be administered to the gums and other parts of the mouth that may be affected during the procedure. A small amount of tooth enamel is removed to make room for veneers. A mould of the teeth is prepared using putty or other material suitable for the mouth. The shade of the teeth is decided using a shade guide. Once the shade and structure are decided, the impression along with the shade selection is sent for preparation. Until the porcelain veneers are prepared, the patient will be provided with superficial veneers. After the veneers are prepared, they are fitted onto the surface of the teeth with the help of dental cement.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Dental crowns

Dental crowns are cap-like coverings for teeth that help strengthen and improve the appearance of teeth. Dental crowns are available in various types based on the material used in manufacture. Porcelain, metal, ceramic, etc. are some examples. These focus on improving dental conditions like cracked, chipped, and broken teeth, etc., helping the patient look younger and more youthful.

The procedure for crown placement begins with the removal of a thick layer of the tooth for the placement of the dental crown. A mould will be made according to the tooth dimensions and the crown prepared will have the same thickness as the removed layer. The crown will also match the colour of the teeth so it appears natural. The permanent crown takes a few weeks to prepare in the lab. During this period, the patient will be provided with a temporary dental crown. Once the permanent dental crown is prepared, the dentist will fit it into the teeth with the help of dental cement and adhesive.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Dental implants

Dental implants are fitted into the teeth to provide support to artificial teeth and improve the structure of the teeth. Dental crowns, bridges, dentures, etc. are also some dental tools that are supported by dental implants.

The procedure for dental implants begins with making an incision in the gumline in such a way that the jawbone is exposed. Holes are drilled into the jawbone to install the implant metal post. The dental implant is left undisturbed for a few weeks to allow osseointegration and later, an abutment is placed on top of the implant for holding the artificial tooth in place.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Invisalign

Invisalign are customized, transparent aligners which help in aligning the teeth in a straight, even line. The neat alignment of the teeth helps the patient look and feel more beautiful and youthful. They are a very good alternative to metallic braces as they are next to invisible, have no dietary restrictions, and are very flexible. The cost of the particular Invisalign depends on the duration of the treatment, the condition of the teeth, etc.

The procedure for aligners begins with the initial appointment, in which the dentist will assess the patient’s cosmetic as well as dental requirements. The next step is the preparation of mould.  Digital tools like photographs, X-rays, etc. are used for preparing a digital model of the teeth. This model is used for the accurate preparation of the Invisalign aligners. Once the Invisalign is prepared, small, invisible buttons are fitted on the surface of the teeth to hold the Invisalign in place. The Invisalign is then placed on the teeth. The patient is also called to attend follow-up appointments to ensure the proper functioning of the aligners.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum contouring

Gum contouring is a dental procedure in which a little amount of gum tissue is removed from the mouth to make the smile brighter by making more teeth visible. It also enhances the shape of the face, making the patient look livelier and more youthful. If the patient has receding gums, they are given a gum restoration to make the gums look fuller. Gum contouring is usually performed by a cosmetic dentist or periodontist.

Before beginning the procedure, the patient will be administered local anaesthesia, to lessen any pain caused during the grafting of the gums. However, the patient will remain awake during the procedure. A soft tissue laser or scalpel is used to cut out excessive gum tissue. The gums are then held together by sutures. If the patient requires gum restoration, a piece of gum tissue is taken from another place in the mouth like the palate, to be stitched to the gum line to extend it.