Many would equate cosmetic dental surgery to sparkling white teeth. This specialised surgery does more than that – it also works on the shape of the teeth, the appearance of mouth through its numerous procedures. Some are simple that are completed in a single consultation whereas some require more detailed procedures.

Dental cosmetic procedures are decided based on the consultation the dentists have with their clients. The complete dental check-up helps to give a detailed and clear picture of the oral region. What are the areas that need correction, what procedures are suited best to achieve the desired results – all these are decided after check-up.

Cosmetic surgery helps to improve smile and appearance, it also helps boost oral health and hygiene and also self-esteem. Many dental concerns that people have be it crooked teeth or overcrowded teeth or stained teeth – all these points towards loss of oral health. By different cosmetic treatments, oral health is recovered. Major cosmetic procedures are discussed.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can be thought of as a synonym for cosmetic dentistry as many know cosmetic dentistry through its teeth whitening procedure. This is one of the simplest dental procedures conducted to improve the appearance of the teeth and also for enhancing the cleanliness of the teeth. Teeth which are stained due to food stains or due to habits like smoking or tobacco or long term use of medicines are cleaned with this procedure. Tartar or plaque formation can also cause teeth discolouration. The dentist will place a rubber covering for the gums and then apply a safe bleaching agent to the teeth. This procedure can be done at home or in a dental clinic.

Composite bonding

Improving the appearance of teeth is done by bonding, this does not require removing any part of the tooth. Teeth lose their shape due to injury, teeth grinding, or trauma to the oral region. The crooked tooth can regain its shape by this procedure. A resin material is added to the tooth to help regain its natural shape. There are also used to fill the gaps between the teeth to get a ‘fuller’ appearance. This procedure does not require many visits to the dentists, usually is done in a single visit. The products do last long provided proper care is taken. The advantage is that they do not stain and sparkle in the teeth will stay for a long time.

Inlays and Onlays

Both these are different types of fillings used on the teeth. They offer protection and strength to the teeth that have been worn out due to wear and tear. The decayed portion of the teeth is removed and the procedures are conducted. The Inlay or Onlay is placed on the tooth and then polished. There are different types of materials that one can use from for the Inlays and Onlays. Inlays are fillings that are applied to the grooves of the teeth and do not extend towards the sides whereas Onlays are applied when there is extensive damage and covers the cusp of the teeth also.

Dental Veneers

Veneers are protective thin covering placed over the tooth. This is useful if the tooth is chipped, broken or crooked. They look like natural teeth and they come in different colours as well so to mimic the natural teeth colour. They can also be placed to fill ‘gaps’ between teeth.  They are durable and for placing them, the dentists will remove or shape the teeth so that when veneers are placed, the teeth don’t jut out. It is the dental enamel that is removed for this process and the dental veneers are placed and glued to the teeth. They do not absorb stain from food or drinks and need not be replaced frequently.

Dental Implants

This is a detailed procedure or surgery that is performed to replace lost teeth. The roots of the tooth are replaced by metal roots and then the artificial tooth is placed on the place of the tooth that is lost. This is a lifesaver for those who are unable to go for dental crowns and bridge procedures. This procedure takes few months as the jaw bone is cut open to place the root of the tooth. After the gum is healed, then the dentist will perform the procedure of placing an artificial tooth. This can be easily done for those with strong jaw bones and suited for those who cannot wear dentures.

Invisalign or braces

Invisalign is the latest in the field of using braces. Braces help to straighten crowded teeth, align them properly and gives the wearer the confidence of having straight and perfect teeth. Overcrowded teeth are often a problem seen in both adults and children. While there are traditional braces that one can opt for, many prefer to go for invasalign treatment. These are invisible dental aligners that can be slipped into the teeth. They are custom made and slowly they shift the teeth to the desired position. They are more comfortable than the normal metal braces, when requiring the elastic bands be adjusted at the clinic and they are visible also. With these invisible braces, many people feel confident of using the braces.

Teeth reshaping

This is also called dental contouring, teeth that are crooked, chipped, cracked or even overlapping are set right with this cosmetic procedure. Dentists will remove the outer enamel to shape and trim the tooth to the desired shape. This is sometimes used as a substitute for those who might need braces. This procedure is usually combined with teeth bonding for a better finish. This procedure helps to correct the appearance and also obtain a better bite. Correcting overlapping teeth will help reduce plaque or tartar formation between the teeth.

Orthodontic treatment

This treatment involves straightening teeth or moving them to the desired position for a better appearance. Jaws that are not properly proportioned or have teeth that move out of line can be correct using this cosmetic procedure. Pain and ache in the jaws, mouth are all caused by an uneven bite. This type of treatment can help remove these issues. Different procedures are adopted depending on the need. This procedure using braces only, or can be a combination of surgery or braces.