Having a beautiful smile can boost your confidence, increase your social life and even add years to your life. That’s why more and more people are turning to cosmetic dentistry for treatment.
A root canal is a procedure that can help you keep your teeth healthy and pain-free. It involves eliminating the infection inside your tooth’s pulp chamber – the part of the tooth where the nerve is located. X-rays are typically taken to visualize the area, and a local anesthetic is often administered to numb the tooth.
The tooth is then filled with a material that prevents bacteria from entering the inner cavity, and the process of rebuilding the tissue begins. This is often done in one office visit.
If the tooth isn’t able to be restored with a filling, the dentist may recommend placing a crown on it. This is a dental restoration made from porcelain or gold that looks just like your natural tooth.
Crowns are a good choice when the tooth is too badly damaged to be treated with a filling, or when your dentist recommends it for health reasons. They are also used to replace a missing tooth.
Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
When looking for a cosmetic dentist, you’ll want to choose one that offers a wide range of services and uses high-quality dental materials. Ask for references and look for before-and-after photos of the work completed by the practice. You may also request a consultation to see if the practice’s staff and cosmetic dentist are right for you.
Cosmetic dentistry is an umbrella term that includes procedures aimed at improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. Common treatments include teeth whitening, veneers and fillings.
A cosmetic dentist focuses on restoring the appearance of your teeth, while a general dentist concentrates on preventing and treating oral health problems. Both dentists offer a variety of services, but cosmetic dentists focus on aesthetic improvements and are more experienced with the latest techniques in cosmetic dentistry.
What is a Cosmetic Dentist?
A cosmetic dental practitioner is a general dentist who undergoes additional training and experience to perform dental treatments that are purely aesthetic. These are not typically covered by insurance and often have higher prices than those performed by general dentists.
Besides cosmetic procedures, a cosmetic dentist may also provide restorative care for your mouth. For example, you may need a root canal to remove infection or repair a fractured tooth. Similarly, you may need a tooth replacement when an injury or a disease has damaged your teeth and gums.
Why Does Cosmetic Dentistry Matter?
While many people pursue cosmetic dental treatments to improve their smiles, these procedures aren’t always necessary. In some cases, they can lead to complications and make your smile less attractive.
The most important step in ensuring the long-term success of any cosmetic treatment is to maintain excellent oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing twice a day helps to eliminate plaque build-up and reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease and other oral health problems.