Aesthetic Dentistry, also known as Cosmetic Dentistry, is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, and bite. It involves a range of dental procedures that can enhance the look of the teeth, including teeth whitening, porcelain crowns and veneers, dental implants, orthodontics, and gum contouring. 

What are the benefits of aesthetic dentistry?

Aesthetic dentistry can provide many benefits to patients. Here are some of the most common benefits:

  • Can help patients feel more confident in their appearance by improving the look of their teeth and smile.
  • Many aesthetic dentistry procedures, such as dental implants and orthodontics, can also improve oral health by fixing dental problems like tooth decay, misalignment, and gum disease.
  • Can improve the colour, shape, and alignment of a person’s teeth, leading to a more attractive and youthful appearance.
  • Many aesthetic dentistry procedures provide long-lasting results, so patients can enjoy their improved smile for years to come.
  • Some aesthetic dentistry procedures can also improve the function of a person’s bite, making it easier to eat and speak.
  • Can be tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs and goals, providing a customised treatment plan.
  • Some aesthetic dentistry procedures are minimally invasive and cause little to no discomfort, making them a great option for patients who are nervous about dental procedures.

What aesthetic dentistry procedures can I get at Manse Medical?

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular aesthetic dentistry procedures, and for a good reason. This procedure is designed to remove stains and discolouration from the teeth, leaving them looking brighter and whiter. 

There are several methods of teeth whitening, including in-office treatments, take-home kits, and over-the-counter products. In-office treatments are the most effective and can provide significant results in just one visit, while take-home kits and over-the-counter products take longer to work but can be more affordable. Teeth whitening is a great option for patients who want to improve the look of their smile quickly and easily.

Crown and Bridge

Crown and bridge work is a common aesthetic dentistry procedure used to repair damaged or missing teeth. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to protect it and restore its shape and size, while a dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. 

Both crowns and bridges are custom-made to match the colour and shape of the patient’s existing teeth, providing a natural-looking result. Crown and bridge work can restore the function of the teeth and improve the appearance of the smile, making it a popular choice among patients.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental problems, including chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth. 

They are made of porcelain or composite resin and are designed to blend in seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth. Veneers are a great option for patients who want to achieve a dramatic improvement in the look of their smile.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. This procedure involves placing a small titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as the foundation for a replacement tooth or bridge. 

They can be used to replace a single missing tooth or several missing teeth, and they provide a permanent and stable solution that looks and functions like natural teeth. Dental implants can improve the appearance of the smile, restore oral function, and prevent bone loss in the jaw, making them an excellent option for many patients.

How to choose the right aesthetic dentistry procedure for you

Choosing the right aesthetic dentistry procedure can depend on several factors, including your oral health, personal preferences, and treatment goals. Here are some tips for choosing the right procedure;

Consult with a qualified dentist

The first step in choosing the right aesthetic dentistry procedure is to consult with a qualified dentist. They can assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment options based on your specific needs and goals.

Consider your treatment goals

Before choosing an aesthetic dentistry procedure, consider what you hope to achieve with the treatment. Are you looking to improve the appearance of your smile, or do you have functional issues that need to be addressed? Understanding your goals can help you choose the right procedure for your needs.

Understand the procedure

It’s important to understand what each aesthetic dentistry procedure involves, including the benefits, risks, and recovery time. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you have about the procedure before making a decision.

Consider the cost

Aesthetic dentistry procedures can vary in cost, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a treatment option. Some procedures, such as teeth whitening, may be more affordable than others, such as dental implants.

Think about long-term results

Some procedures, such as dental implants, can provide long-lasting results, while others may need to be repeated periodically, such as teeth whitening. Consider the long-term results of each procedure when making a decision.

Overall, choosing the right aesthetic dentistry procedure requires careful consideration of your individual needs and goals, and consultation with a qualified dentist is crucial for making an informed decision.

What are the risks?

Like any medical or dental procedure, there are some potential risks associated with aesthetic dentistry. Here are some of the possible risks to consider:

  • Some procedures, such as teeth whitening or the placement of veneers, may cause sensitivity or discomfort. This is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
  • There is a risk of infection with some dental procedures. We will take steps to minimise this risk, such as using sterile equipment and following proper infection control procedures.
  • In some cases, procedures such as crowns or veneers may require the removal of some natural tooth structure. While this is typically minimal, there is a risk of damage to the natural teeth during the procedure.
  • Some materials used in procedures, such as metal in dental implants or certain dental materials, may cause an allergic reaction in some people.
  • In rare cases, procedures can cause a misaligned bite, which can lead to discomfort or problems with chewing or speaking.

It’s important to discuss any potential risks with your dentist before undergoing any aesthetic dentistry procedure. We will take all of the necessary steps to minimise these risks and provide you with the best possible outcome.

How do I maintain my results?

After undergoing aesthetic dentistry procedures, it’s important to take proper care of your teeth and oral hygiene to maintain the results. Here are some tips for maintaining aesthetic dental results:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
  • If you had teeth whitening or other procedures to improve the appearance of your teeth, using a whitening toothpaste can help maintain the results.
  • Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can stain your teeth. Try to limit your intake of these foods and drinks, or rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
  • Smoking or using other tobacco products can stain your teeth and increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
  • Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help maintain the results of your aesthetic dentistry procedures and prevent future dental problems.
  • If you grind your teeth at night, a custom-fitted mouthguard can help protect your teeth and maintain the results of your aesthetic dentistry procedures.

By following these tips and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help ensure that your results last as long as possible.

FAQs

How long do the results of aesthetic dentistry last?

The duration of the results of aesthetic dentistry procedures depends on several factors, such as the type of procedure, how well you take care of your teeth, and your overall oral health. When you consult with us, we will give you a rough estimate as to how long your results will last, as well as how you can best prolong them.

Are aesthetic dentistry results painful?

Aesthetic dentistry procedures should not be painful, as dentists use local anaesthesia to numb the area being treated. However, it is common to experience some discomfort or sensitivity following certain procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, or dental implants. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-procedure care and to contact your dentist if you experience any severe or persistent pain or discomfort.

Are aesthetic dentistry procedures covered by insurance?

Generally, aesthetic dentistry procedures that are considered cosmetic in nature, such as teeth whitening and veneers, are not typically covered by insurance. However, procedures that are considered necessary for the function and health of your teeth, such as dental implants or crowns and bridges, may be covered in part or full by some insurance plans. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage for aesthetic dentistry procedures under your plan.

What does the medical research say?

  1. General Overview: Aesthetic dentistry aims to mimic natural teeth and design smiles based on individual patient needs. It has evolved significantly over the past 100 years, with advancements in dental materials, techniques, and technologies. These include the establishment of universal aesthetic rules, development of advanced restorative materials, progress in orthodontics, periodontal surgery, and the implementation of digital technologies for planning and realizing natural, individual, and aesthetic smiles​​.
  2. Dental Aesthetics: Dental aesthetics encompasses three key aspects: white aesthetics (teeth), pink aesthetics (gingiva), and facial aesthetics (extra-oral features, predominantly lips). Aesthetic dentistry integrates these elements to enhance a person’s smile​​.
  3. Treatment Range and Technologies: Aesthetic dental treatment includes tooth whitening, composite fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, and complex implant therapy. Today’s dentistry benefits from sophisticated materials, digital acquisition devices, CAD/CAM fabrication, 3D printing, and various software for diagnosis, treatment planning, and digital smile design​​.
  4. Importance of Comprehensive Treatment Planning: Effective aesthetic dental treatment not only enhances appearance but also considers health and function. It is crucial to balance aesthetic restorations with these factors to ensure durability and long-term success​​.