Cosmetic Restorations

Many people, for whatever reason, are unhappy with their teeth. For some, the problem is discoloration. Others are irritated with the jaggedness of their smile. Still others feel their teeth are too short or too long, or would like to do something about small chips, gaps, or old fillings.

With all the recent advances in cosmetic dentistry, it seems as if there's a procedure to benefit everyone. From one-visit teeth whitening procedures to full-scale smile makeovers, your dentist should be able to offer you a variety of options when it comes to cosmetic restoration. Veneers, bonding, and crowns are among the most popular choices.

Even those with severe cases due to injury or disease can be helped by cosmetic procedures. Dental crowns, for instance, are often used to strengthen decayed, broken, or otherwise compromised teeth, with the aesthetic benefit as an added bonus. For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are often a good option. If you have gaps between your teeth that are too large to be filled with a bonding agent or camouflaged with veneers, but you are reluctant to wear metal brackets, you might benefit from the new invisible braces.

When considering a cosmetic restoration, however, there are a number of things to keep in mind. For budget-conscious patients, cost is usually a major concern, as many purely cosmetic restorations are not fully covered by insurance. The impact of a cosmetic procedure on your dental health should also be a factor. While some procedures can actually strengthen your teeth, others--such as some types of veneers--may weaken them. Make sure to fully discuss any cosmetic plans with your dentist, so you're aware of all the advantages and disadvantages before going in.