Cosmetic DentistCarlsbad, CA

Typical problems that a cosmetic dentist handles

It is not rare to meet someone who has cosmetic concerns about their teeth. Some issues are hereditary and are with a person from a young age. Others come because of poor oral hygiene and inattention to basic daily dental care. Cosmetic problems can also arise due to what people eat and drink. And others occur because of accidents and injuries.

Discolored teeth is a common concern that people face. Once-white teeth can stain and change from an attractive white color to yellow, brown, or gray. Poor brushing can lead to stains, as can drinking beverages such as coffee, wine, and cola. Dentists can recommend store-bought teeth-whitening products, though these are not as effective as treatments from the dentist directly. Take-home trays and in-office whitening can bleach teeth and leave long-lasting results. For severely discolored teeth, a patient may even get crowns to cover the stains.

Braces are a common way to fix crooked teeth, though this is not the only treatment. Clear aligners are more and more popular today because they are practically invisible. Other alternatives include placing crowns over the misaligned teeth or attaching veneers to teeth that may be misshapen or abnormally large or small.

A Carlsbad dentist may often treat patients with damaged teeth. Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth can hinder a person’s smile. These issues can also be painful or invite decay and infection to invade the tooth. For small chips, the cosmetic dentist may use a filling to build up the affected area. For larger damage, the dentist may prefer crowns or veneers. Pulling the tooth and replacing it with an implant is another option.

Why aesthetics matters

People with any of these cosmetic situations should not have to wait to get treatment. All of these can be embarrassing and affect a person’s self-esteem and self-worth. Plus, the longer a patient waits to address these needs, the more difficult it can be to correct them. Teeth can continue to discolor. Damaged teeth can deteriorate more. Crooked or misaligned teeth can be difficult to brush effectively.

Whitening teeth

A cosmetic dentist is likely to offer an in-office teeth-whitening treatment. These use a highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide gel, which sits on the person’s teeth for 30 minutes or more. Light or heat activates the chemicals, which penetrate deep into the teeth. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down the molecules that stain the teeth. Only one or two visits are necessary, and patients can see results within weeks or even sooner. People enjoy this method because it can also keep teeth white for up to three years.

Crowns and veneers

Crowns are common in general dentistry, but a cosmetic dentist will also prefer them. A crown is a natural-looking artificial tooth, usually made of ceramic or porcelain. It fits entirely over the tooth, protecting it from further damage and stabilizing it. Because the dentist will fabricate it the desired color, shape, and size, it is a viable option for covering discolored teeth as well as teeth that are crooked or broken.

Veneers have a similar purpose; they can restore the color and shape of an unsightly tooth. Unlike a crown, this thin porcelain shell bonds to the front surface of the tooth. The dentist must first remove some enamel and reshape the tooth so it can fit and bond effectively. Veneers can last around 10 years if the patient is mindful of maintenance and care.

Implants

For missing teeth, there may not be a more attractive option than dental implants. A cosmetic dentist can perform this procedure over several months. It involves at least two surgeries and requires a lengthy recovery. However, implants can last for many years and provide a strong bite force. Good candidates for dental implants have healthy jawbone growth. People who have suffered bone loss will need a bone graft before getting implants.

Implants consist of three parts: a screw-like titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. The dentist first makes impressions of the mouth to fabricate the crown. X-rays help to determine whether the bone can support the posts. The posts embed deep into the jaw, fusing with the bone. After the patient heals from this first procedure, the dentist attaches the abutment to the post. The crown goes on top of the abutment, resembling a real tooth.

Care and maintenance

For any cosmetic procedure, the patient should be diligent about maintaining good oral health habits. This means brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Regular dental visits are also critical. People who have any of these treatments should be cautious about eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods. If concerns arise about the treatment, the patient should inform the cosmetic dentist right away.

Enjoy the smile you have always wanted

If you are tired of what you see when you look in the mirror, it is time to make some changes. Our cosmetic dentist can recommend different treatments to restore your smile. Whether your teeth have ugly stains or whether your teeth are crooked, broken, or missing, we can help. Visit us today and start your transformation.