Cosmetic dental care can improve the look of your teeth and smile. You may be wondering what this will consist of. This article will outline the different types of work that cosmetic dentistry includes and what problems each treatment solves.

Dental implants

Implants are used to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are typically made of titanium and have a similar appearance to a screw. They are placed into the jaw bone, and then a crown is added to act as the tooth. When first fitted, a temporary crown will be used until the bone and implant join, then the temporary crown will be replaced with a permanent one.

The aftercare for implants only consists of good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. Implants have the same texture as normal teeth, they are durable and are an excellent substitute that fits well to create a great smile. They also feel very natural after a short period, and they are an effective long-term solution to missing teeth.

Dental crowns

Crowns are used when teeth are damaged. They are usually made of porcelain or ceramic with the appearance suited to your remaining teeth. If a back tooth is broken, crowns can be made of gold alloy for greater strength. These crowns will typically be coated in porcelain for a natural finish. Crowns are added by filing down the broken tooth and placing the crown over the tooth. Crowns are maintained with good oral hygiene and avoiding chewy foods such as toffees.

 Dental bridges

A dental bridge is used as a substitute for missing teeth. A bridge consists of prosthetic teeth and crowns, which is fixed into place between your remaining teeth. A dental bridge will have the same appearance as your missing teeth. The aftercare for dental bridges includes regular oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods and using a dental floss threader to keep the bridge clean.

Veneers

Veneers are used when the surface of a tooth is discoloured, cracked or chipped. Veneers can be made of porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers are joined to the front of the tooth. Composite resin veneers are added in layers to cover the tooth. Again, these can be maintained by an oral hygiene routine.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a relatively quick process for improving the colouring of your teeth. You can have your teeth whitened by a dentist or through using a self-application kit. A gel is used to protect the gums and then a bright light is used to remove stains from the teeth. An option for using lasers is also available. Repeat applications will be necessary.

Dentures

Dentures are used to replace missing teeth. Depending on the number of teeth absent, a partial or full denture can be created. When first eating with your dentures you will need to eat soft food for a while. Dentures require regular check-ups to maintain.

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