Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a patient. Cosmetic dental work is usually elective rather than essential, however, in many cases the dentist will deal with tooth restoration prior to cosmetic work. A cosmetic dentist in Chicago can be called upon to undertake numerous procedures, some of which are quite complex, but generally speaking the dentist will be asked to deal with several common procedures.
The most common cosmetic procedures include:
* Composite bonding: A cosmetic dentist will often turn to composite bonding to repair teeth which are decayed, chipped, cracked or discolored. The material that is used is resin, the color is chosen by the dentist to closely match the color of the patient’s teeth. In the event of decay, once the dentist has prepared the site, the composite material is applied to the area and sculpted to conform to the desired profile; it is finally cured with a blue light. Bonding is one of the least expensive cosmetic procedures and is often used in lieu of veneers to repair surface imperfections.
* Dental veneers: Dental veneers are made from ceramic material; they are custom made to fit the profile of specific teeth. Dental veneers look very realistic, they are employed by a cosmetic dentist in Chicago when it is necessary to improve the appearance of cracked and chipped teeth, noticeable gaps between teeth and to a lesser extent, they can be produced to improve the appearance of crooked teeth. Dental veneers have a significant life expectancy.
* Teeth whitening: Perhaps the most common cosmetic dental procedure is teeth whitening. Although kits are available over the counter, the best results are had from a professional. Once the dentist has cleaned your teeth of plaque and tartar he or she will apply a bleach substance to the surface of the teeth.
* Dental implants: In the not too distant past the only available solutions for tooth loss was a denture or a bridge. Today, patients have the option of a tooth implant. The cosmetic dentist in Chicago places a titanium screw directly into the jaw bone at the site of the missing tooth, this implant serves as the “root” which supports a porcelain crown. A dental implant looks identical to a natural tooth and it functions in exactly the same manner.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth or smile then you should consider one or more of the cosmetic dental procedures commonly available from your cosmetic dentist in Chicago.s
A visit to a cosmetic dentist in Chicago is the first step on the road toward beautiful teeth and a radiant smile. You are invited to discuss the possibilities with the dentists at Lincoln Park General and Cosmetic Dentistry.
