What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

November 15, 2019

At Ocean Front Dental, our passionate and professional team of dentists and dental hygienists see it all. From routine cleanings to more involved procedures, we have built our reputation on helping Vancouverites from all walks of life brighten their smiles!

Over the past few decades, there seems to be an increased curiosity in cosmetic dentistry and, with our own expert dentists in house, we do that too. While some patients come in knowing exactly what they want, many others are simply curious about what cosmetic dentistry even is. Here at Ocean Front Dental, we have you covered.

Continue reading to uncover some of the basics of cosmetic dentistry and, if interested, what options are available to you!

In short, cosmetic dentistry can refer to any dental work where the primary purpose is meant to improve the appearance of your teeth, bite, or gums without necessarily improving their function. Oftentimes these procedures are aimed at improving your smile, and your Ocean Front Dental dentist will help you identify the specific need and how to best achieve it. The procedures themselves are incredibly varied and can address all types of dental anomalies or imperfections. Below are just a few examples.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is arguably the most popular cosmetic dentistry option and is exactly what it sounds like. There are a variety of ways to approach teeth whitening, and many of them provide the least expensive way to boost your smile. From over the counter solutions to more involved and permanent options done at the dental clinic, you can work with your dentist to choose the best option for you.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns or caps are a relatively quick way to replace a decayed or damaged tooth to help it regain its shape, size, and appearance. Dental crowns can serve a function or cover teeth that are stained and discoloured beyond normal repair.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are another way to cover the surface of a tooth to improve its appearance. Veneers are thin coverings made of porcelain or resin that are cemented on the front of a tooth after a thin layer of enamel has been removed. This is one of the more expensive types of cosmetic dentistry but will leave your smile shining brighter than ever before!

Bonding

Dental bonding with a putty-like resin is a way to help fix decayed, chipped, or misshapen teeth. Instead of getting a replacement tooth or crown, your dentist will apply the resin to your teeth and harden it so that it bonds securely to the surface. From there, he or she will shape and polish it so the foreign material is virtually unnoticeable in your mouth!

Cosmetic dentistry is a wide-ranging branch of dentistry where the sole purpose is to improve your smile. There are countless procedures to do so, each with its own associated outcome and cost. If you are hoping to brighten, straighten, or otherwise improve your smile give us a call at Ocean Front Dental today.

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