COSMETIC DENTISTRY CENTRAL COAST

WHAT IS COSMETIC DENTISTRY?

Aesthetic dentistry, often referred to as “cosmetic dentistry”, is the term used to describe treatments that change the way your teeth look. You may want to change the colour, the shape, the position of your teeth, or replace a missing tooth. You may think of it as changing the way you look when you smile or even when you are trying to keep a straight face.

In cosmetic dentistry, there is far more involved than simply changing the appearance of your teeth. Embarking on a cosmetic dental journey would firstly start with your dental fitness. It’s important to have a dentist conduct a full examination of your mouth and assess the condition of your gums, your teeth, and treat any oral health issues that may arise from that examination. Your health comes first! Improving and maintaining good oral health is key to a successful cosmetic dentistry result.

While a cosmetic procedure like teeth whitening is included in aesthetic dentistry, the field is mostly concerned with orthodontic treatment which involves teeth straightening (thus improving your bite and functionality of your teeth and jaw), and restorative dentistry, which involves the insertion of crowns, veneers and dental implants.

Here at New Leaf Dentists, we believe in improving your overall oral health while also achieving the smile that you’ve always dreamed of. Our dentists will spend time with you to talk about where you are right now, any previous treatments you’ve had and where you got to, your range of options, the pros and cons, an “expectation vs reality” discussion, and work out a plan that suits your time, your budget, your lifestyle, and your commitment to partner with us to ensure that your smile design will have long term results.

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Teeth Whitening

As the name suggests, this treatment is all about lightening stained or discoloured teeth.

While you can buy over-the-counter, use-at-home toothpaste and strips, your dentist is best qualified to determine if you need teeth whitening. They can diagnose the reason for the discolouration and its type, and can then advise the most suitable treatment for you.

You may be tempted to go to a shopping centre booth or a beautician to get your teeth whitened, but neither are staffed by suitably qualified personnel. Incorrect use of bleaching agents may cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. DIY bleaching comes with all sorts of risks, and anecdotal treatments such as rubbing strawberries, lemons, or even bicarbonate of soda on your teeth, can do a lot of damage to your teeth and gums for no real whitening gain.

Keep in mind is that crowns, veneers and fillings don’t change colour when you have your teeth whitened.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-coloured porcelain or glass/plastic layers fixed onto the front of your teeth that can be a suitable option if you have teeth with gaps, that are stained, discoloured, broken or chipped, crowded-in or crooked, oddly-shaped or badly-aligned.

Crowns

If your broken or decayed tooth needs to be rebuilt, it’s possible your dentist will use a crown to do the job. Crowns are generally made from materials such as porcelain, and porcelain/metal combinations. Not only do they make your teeth look more attractive, but they also give them added strength, durability and stability.

Teeth Straightening

Using corrective items like braces and plates, your dentist or orthodontist (specialist) will line up your teeth within your jaw so you not only look better but may have more efficient use of the affected teeth. Once considered unsightly, braces, a key part of teeth straightening, are now much less noticeable than they were, in some cases being all but invisible.

Dental implants

If you have missing teeth, your dentist may suggest the use of dental implants to replace them. Not only may your smile improve, but you may also enjoy a better quality of life. Your dentist is best placed to advise on the most suitable option for replacing your teeth and any decision on changing the look and function of your teeth should always be in conjunction with your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

The longevity of cosmetic dental procedures can vary depending on the specific treatment and individual factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and the quality of materials used. With proper planning and preparation, veneers and crowns, for instance, can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more with regular care. Teeth whitening results usually last from several months to a few years, depending on your diet and oral care routine. Composite bonding might need touch-ups every 5 to 10 years. It's essential to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to help ensure the longevity of any cosmetic dental work.
Determining if you are a candidate for cosmetic dental work can involve a thorough evaluation by a qualified dentist. Generally, candidates should have good oral health, including healthy gums and teeth. Specific factors that can be considered include your teeth condition, oral health history, and aesthetic goals. If you have issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems, these must be addressed before undergoing cosmetic procedures. A consultation can help determine the most suitable treatments for your needs and goals.
Cosmetic dentistry is suitable for a wide range of ages, from teenagers to older adults. However, the suitability of certain procedures can depend on individual circumstances. For instance, teeth whitening is typically recommended for patients over the age of 16, as younger teeth are still developing. Similarly, treatments like veneers and crowns are generally more appropriate for adults whose teeth and gums have fully matured. Regardless of age, a comprehensive dental evaluation is essential to help ensure cosmetic procedures are safe and effective.
If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

For related information on this topic, visit Teeth Straightening.

Please note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.