Cosmetic Dentistry
If you would like to enhance your smile, Commonwealth Family Dentistry can help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile. We offer a full suite of cosmetic dentistry treatments in Chester, VA.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the category of dental treatment that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry can be used to correct chipped or cracked teeth. It can also be used to correct gaps in your teeth. Other uses include correcting tooth staining, misshapen teeth, or misaligned teeth.
What Is the Difference Between Cosmetic Dentistry and Restorative Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry treatments are generally only used for that purpose.
Restorative dentistry focuses on addressing the functional issues of your teeth and gums. Restorative dentistry is used to correct issues like cavities and missing or broken teeth. Some dental treatments can be classified as both cosmetic and restorative. For example, dental implants and crowns.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
Here are the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Dental Implants – Used to replace missing teeth.
Teeth Whitening – Used to whiten stained teeth.
Dental Veneers – Thin porcelain shells placed on the fronts of teeth to cover imperfections and cosmetic flaws (chips, cracks, etc.).
Gum Contouring – Removing excess gum tissue to improve an overly “gummy” smile.
Tooth Contouring – Removing small amounts of tooth enamel to even out the shape of teeth.
Dental Bonding – Bonding material used to change the shape of a tooth. It’s used to make teeth longer and wider or cover discoloration, hairline cracks, and other cosmetic flaws.
The Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Dentistry
Consider the pros and cons of each cosmetic dentistry treatment to determine which one is right for you. Your dentist in Chester, VA, will discuss the pros and cons with you as well. Then, together, you can decide which one is right for you.
Pros:
- Improve the appearance of your smile.
- Whiten stained teeth.
- Balance out your face and smile.
- Fix crooked or misshapen teeth.
- Cover chips and hairline cracks.
- Long-lasting results.
- Boost your self-confidence.
Cons:
- Some treatments can be expensive.
- Insurance, in most cases, doesn’t cover cosmetic dentistry.
- Some cosmetic dental treatments are irreversible (veneers).
- Some cosmetic dental treatments need to be replaced every few years (veneers).
- Some treatments can cause tooth sensitivity (whitening).
How Long Do Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments Last?
How long your cosmetic dental treatments last will depend on your lifestyle, oral health, and your adherence to good oral hygiene. Your dentist will go over the longevity of your chosen treatment with you.
Here is the average life expectancy of some common cosmetic dental treatments.
Dental Implants – The implant will generally last a lifetime. The crown/artificial tooth portion will need to be replaced every 10-15 years or so.
Dental Veneers – Five to 15 years.
Teeth Whitening – Six months to three years.
Dental Bonding – Five to eight years.
Gum Contouring – Permanent.
Tooth Contouring – Permanent.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today!
Please Contact Us today to schedule an exam or if you have any questions about your cosmetic dentistry options.
