Cosmetic dentistry involves a wide range of procedures. Most people think of teeth whitening or veneers, but it also includes dental bonding and tooth-colored restorations.
When choosing a cosmetic dentistry East Memphis TN, it’s important to consider their experience and reputation. You want a dentist who can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, durable caps that a dentist can bond to the front surface of your teeth. They conceal cracks, gaps, deep stains, and other cosmetic dentistry East Memphis TN flaws. The material reflects light like natural tooth enamel and looks extremely realistic. It is also stain resistant and gum-tolerant. Unlike most other dental procedures, porcelain veneers are irreversible.
It is common to worry that getting veneers will ruin your natural teeth because the process involves reshaping the tooth to fit the cap. This inevitably leaves a portion of the natural tooth exposed to bacteria and decay. However, most patients do not experience this issue.
Composite veneers, which are made from a resin-based plastic, do not require the removal of as much enamel as traditional porcelain veneers. While they are not as long-lasting, they still look natural and provide the same functionality as porcelain. In addition, these veneers can be shaped freehand on the teeth and are less expensive than porcelain veneers.
Teeth Whitening
A healthy, bright smile is an important part of one’s appearance. However, a person’s teeth can become discolored over time due to smoking or the consumption of food and drinks that stain the tooth enamel. A dental professional can help to make the teeth appear whiter and healthier through various tooth whitening treatments.
There are many different products that can lighten the color of the tooth enamel, but they all work by either removing or bleaching the chromogens on the surface of the tooth. These products include toothpastes with increased detergents and abrasives that physically remove stains; whitening gels that contain carbamide peroxide that releases hydrogen peroxide to lighten the tooth; or whitening rinses that have oxygen to react with the chromogens to lighten them.
Most whitening treatments require multiple office visits that last an hour or less each. The treatment is typically painless and comfortable, but patients can experience sensitivity or gum irritation during the course of the procedure.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can repair minor issues in the structure and appearance of teeth. It uses a tooth-colored resin material to correct a number of cosmetic problems, including chips, cracks, discoloration, and small gaps between the teeth. Unlike porcelain veneers, which require the removal of some of the tooth enamel, dental bonding is minimally invasive.
The dentist begins the treatment by roughening the surface of the tooth with an etching solution or gel. A conditioner might also be applied to help the composite bonding material adhere to the tooth. The dentist applies the composite to the tooth in layers until the desired look is achieved. The dentist then polishes the tooth to complete the treatment.
Patients with cosmetic dentistry East Memphis TN bonds should take care not to bite their nails or chew on ice, as this can cause damage to the resin. They should also avoid using their teeth to open packages or bottle caps.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal fixtures surgically fastened to the jawbone, where they provide support for artificial teeth. They are used to replace missing teeth, and can improve chewing and speech. They can also enhance a person's appearance. Typically, they look and feel like natural teeth.
Before getting an implant, you should have a thorough medical evaluation. A doctor who specializes in conditions of the mouth, jaw and face (oral and maxillofacial surgeon) should perform this evaluation. A dentist who treats structures that support the teeth and gums (periodontist) or a dentist who designs and fits artificial teeth (prosthodontist) may also be part of your treatment team.
During the healing period after an implant is placed, you should practice good oral hygiene and avoid smoking. Regular visits to the dentist are important, and the dental hygienist should evaluate your implant for signs of infection or other problems. Call your dentist immediately if you experience pain or discomfort at an implant site, as this could indicate an infection.
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