In the past, people used to only go to the dentist for checkups or when there was a problem that required treatment. However, nowadays, that is far from the case. Cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular as people seek to improve their smiles and their quality of life. The problem, of course, with so much choice is knowing which dentist you need for which treatment. You need to ensure that you keep your teeth as healthy as can be, but you might also want to change the way you look. Cosmetic dentists and general dentists have unique skill sets, so it pays to make sure you’re seeing the right person for the right job.
How the Cosmetic Dental Industry is Growing
Cosmetic dentistry is the fastest-growing area in the dental industry. There are several reasons for this:
- Natural treatments – instead of aiming for the infamous Hollywood smile, treatments like tooth whitening help people achieve natural-looking smiles.
- Digital previews – cosmetic dental procedures used to be daunting for many, but today it’s possible to see the results before treatment has even begun.
- Better materials – high-tech ceramic materials are replacing metal-based tooth restoration so that veneers, crowns and inlays are natural and durable.
- Payment plans – more dentists are offering flexible payment plans to help people manage the costs of cosmetic dental treatments.
- Social acceptance – people are more upfront about using cosmetic dentistry to improve their smiles, sharing their success stories on social media.
Ultimately, the growth in the cosmetic dental industry is two-fold. It’s a combination of new technology and treatments alongside growing demand as we become increasingly focused on how we look. Everyone is looking for the perfect smile. The more interest there is, the more innovative solutions will become available.
What Treatments Fall Under Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry treatments include procedures to fill the gaps in your smile, straighten the appearance of your teeth and brighten your outlook. Ultimately, all cosmetic dental treatments work to improve the aesthetics of your smile and the appearance of your teeth. Treatments that fall under cosmetic dentistry include:
- Composite White Fillings – a tooth-coloured resin that forms a strong bond with your tooth, is durable and will look completely natural.
- Inlays and Onlays – larger fillings made with incredibly strong porcelain to repair your teeth while ensuring they are a natural colour.
- Crowns and Bridges – replacement teeth made from porcelain or ceramic that are custom-made to be the perfect size, shape and colour to compliment your smile.
- Teeth Whitening – bleaching agents are used to lighten your teeth, ensuring that they are as natural-looking for as long as possible.
- Veneers – thin, custom-made porcelain shells are attached to the front of your teeth to cover imperfections and give you a winning smile.
Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, How Do I Choose?
If you’re choosing a new dental practice, you’ll want to consider your motivations. If you’re just looking to keep your oral health in check and to have access to routine appointments, a general dentist will suffice. However, if you’re not entirely happy with how your teeth look, you might also need the skill set of a cosmetic dentist.
If you’re looking for a dentist that can offer you both general and cosmetic dentistry, you’ll want to ensure that you talk to them about their experience. As the industry becomes more popular, you will find more cosmetic dentists in Bexley. However, to achieve the perfect results, you’ll need a dentist that is experienced, uses the best quality materials and has access to laboratories and cutting-edge technology.
How Does a Cosmetic Dentist Differ From General Dentists
A cosmetic dentist has the same basic training as a general dentist so will be able to offer routine appointments, x-rays and teeth cleaning. What’s more, both types of dentist can fill cavities, place crowns and bridges and apply restorative procedures. However, if you are really concerned with the way you look, a cosmetic dentist will be able to deliver the highest-quality aesthetic results.
When it comes to dentists, your general dentist will care for your basic dental needs. However, your cosmetic dentist Bexley will care for your smile and how it looks after treatment.
