Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is one of the most popular, and least expensive, types of cosmetic dentistry. This procedure involves exposing the teeth to a solution that bleaches them, giving them a youthful, white look. Cavities cannot be present prior to the procedure, and any gum disease must be dealt with. Tooth whitening done by chemicals is done at home, with a mouth guard filled with the chemical. Another way to whiten teeth is through an in office procedure that uses stronger chemicals and high intensity lights.

Tooth Shaping

Tooth shaping is a procedure designed to change the overall shape of the tooth. One procedure involves the dentist removing a tiny amount of the tooth enamel. This is done to make long or pointed teeth look smooth and straight. It does not hurt, because enamel does not contain any nerves. Another type of tooth shaping procedure is a resin filling. These fillings are used to cover any holes or chips in visible teeth. A tooth colored resin is filled into the hole to reshape the tooth to its normal state.

Gum Lifts

Gum lifts are done to make teeth look longer than they really are. This procedure involves the removal of some of the gum tissue at the top of the tooth, before the root. People with a wide smile due to an upper lift that comes high are often embarrassed by their smile, and the dentist can make it more attractive by removing some of the gum tissue that they do not need. While it sounds like a painful procedure, the area is completely numbed before hand, so it is not.

Cost of Cosmetic Density

The cost of cosmetic dentistry is often what keeps people from considering it for their cosmetic needs. This is because the procedures are not considered medically necessary in most cases, meaning that dental insurance plans will not have coverage for them. Some forms of cosmetic density are considered necessary for the overall health of the person. Correcting an incorrectly aligned bite, for example, may involve some cosmetic dentistry, but this is usually covered by insurance because it is considered medically necessary. But these procedures are not cheap, costing at leas a couple of hundred dollars.

So those considering cosmetic dentistry should first decide if the cost is worth the benefit. If they do, they need to find some quality cosmetic dentists to choose from, and find out what makes them better than the others. Then, it is time to have your cosmetic dentistry done so that you can have a happier, more radiant smile!