What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Resin or Tooth Colored Fillings

Sarasota cosmetic dentistry Resin fillings are also referred to as composite, white fillings or bonding. These can quickly make a substantial improvement in the appearance of the teeth. Resin is what dentists use to repair small cavities or chips in front teeth, as well as fill cavities cosmetically in back teeth. As far as improving the appearance of the teeth, resin can do virtually the same thing as porcelain veneers. Using resin instead of porcelain veneers for cosmetic dentistry saves time and money. There are, however, disadvantages associated with using resin. They are not as strong as porcelain veneers, and ultimately require repairs every few years. They do not have as much natural beauty as porcelain veneers and can discolor over time. One advantage is that resin cosmetic procedures can usually be completed in about an hour.

Bonded-Bridge

Sarasota Dentist Sarasota cosmetic dentistry A bonded-bridge can replace a missing tooth in far less time and for less money than a porcelain bridge or an implant. It is basically a resin or porcelain tooth with resin or metal wings on each side of it. This is an ideal solution for a missing tooth in the front of the mouth, where biting forces are not that strong. The procedure involves removing a small amount of the inside of the teeth on either side of the missing one and then taking an impression or mold. The laboratory makes the bonded-bridge, which is then adhered to the backs of the teeth surrounding the missing one.

The all resin bonded bridge is more esthetic in that no metal shows through and does not fall out and have to be re-cemented nearly as much as a metal bonded-bridge.

Gum-lifts

Gum-lifts (gingivectomy) involve the removal of gum tissue to make the teeth appear longer and the gum-line even. Persons with excess gum covering the front teeth combined with an upper lip that comes up high when they smile can be self-conscious of their smile. Those having an uneven gum-line making their teeth appear to have different lengths may feel it detracts from an attractive smile.

To solve these issues, the excess gum is removed after numbing. The procedure itself is not painful, but some mild discomfort can be expected a day or two afterwards. The patient is instructed to use an antiseptic mouth rinse such as Peridex on a Q-tip and apply upward pressure on the gums as they heal. An experienced dentist will be sure the gum is not damaged in the procedure by removing the proper amount. It ususally takes only 30 minutes to complete this procedure.

Braces

Sarasota dentistry Orthodontics or braces can improve the appearance of teeth in children and adults who have crooked teeth or teeth with wide gaps. Having teeth moved with braces is very time consuming, requires multiple visits (at least twenty) and can be uncomfortable. It is most useful for children to straighten their teeth. The procedure can improve the appearance of the face and jaw during growth.

I sometimes recommend braces to my adult patients for cosmetic reasons, but very few are interested. They would rather use other cosmetic options that get results faster, usually within two weeks, and often for less money.

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Jill M Morris DMD and Burr Bakke DDS: Non Surgical Face Lifts and Restorative Dentistry - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and porcelain veneers to the area of Sarasota, Florida.

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