Most of these procedures today are being done for aesthetic reasons. In some cases, however, they are done for restorative purposes. Many different types of procedures can be done to improve a person's teeth and smile, but the following are the most in demand:
People all over the world, both young and old, go in for dental fillings every day. This cosmetic dental procedure is generally done to repair teeth that have been damaged by advanced decay. Teeth decay can be caused by poor dental hygiene and improper eating habits. Many dentists recommend a dental filling over an extraction if they think the tooth (or teeth) in question can be saved.
Another popular remedy to decayed teeth is the dental crown. Dental crowns are quite similar to dental fillings, except that dental crowns usually last longer and are more durable. Before the crown can be applied, the decay is removed. Then the remaining tooth structure is reinforced. After the tooth is prepared, a porcelain cap is placed over the tooth to protect it. This can also be done of teeth that are discolored, chipped or otherwise broken.
If you're looking for a solution to that unsightly gap between your teeth or the cracks and chips in your teeth due to accidents, dental bonding is the cosmetic dental procedure for you. Dental bonding entails the application of material that has the same color as your teeth to repair broken parts or to serve as space fillers.
Due to smoking or poor dental hygiene, teeth may gradually get a yellowish stain over the years that can no longer be removed with ordinary brushing. Most people go to the dentist for a teeth whitening procedure to eliminate the yellowish stain. Teeth whitening is different from bleaching, however; the latter is a cosmetic dental procedure that can produce unnaturally white and unattractive looking teeth. A cosmetic dentist does a conventional teeth whitening procedure in his office.
Another very popular cosmetic dental procedure for repairing severely stained teeth is the use of veneers. This procedure involves placing very thin porcelain or ceramic sheets over the damaged teeth to make them look whiter or more even.
The cost of cosmetic dental procedures vary depending on the severity of the problem and how much the dentist charges. Most procedures, however, are actually more affordable than what most people initially assume. In any case, the results you get out of these procedures are generally worth the money you spend.