Today, aesthetic or cosmetic dentistry is as common as X-rays and fillings. While many patients undergo aesthetic dental treatments to improve the appearance of their teeth, many procedures have a health benefit as well, including proper teeth alignment and lower rates of infection. Visit Hanover Family Dentistry to learn how aesthetic dentistry can improve the look and health of your smile. If you’re only looking for the cosmetic benefits of teeth whitening, we can provide those services as well.
Some procedures, such as teeth whitening, only have a cosmetic benefit, since tooth color poses no health risk. Many other aesthetic dental procedures have benefits beyond improved appearance. For example:
- Crowns help reshape the teeth, but they also protect teeth that have undergone root canals or other procedures.
- Periodontal treatment protects the tooth’s appearance by minimizing the damage caused by periodontitis.
- Porcelain veneers are placed on teeth that may have cracked or have other abnormalities that impact tooth function.
Aesthetic dentistry addresses both sets of concerns, providing solutions that resolve dental issues while protecting the natural, healthy appearance of the teeth. As a result, many dental visits include at least one such procedure.
What to Expect at Your Visit
During your first visit with your dental, the dentist performs an exam and takes X-rays of the teeth. If you want aesthetic dentistry for cosmetic reasons, the dentist will make sure the procedure is safe. Or, if the checkup shows signs of trouble, like infection or misalignment, the dentist may recommend procedures that involve aesthetic work. Some procedures can be performed the same day, while others may require several visits to continue the work or to monitor progress.
Following aesthetic dental procedures, the dentist will provide instructions for home care of the new work, which include tips on oral hygiene and healthy eating habits. At this time, follow-up visits may be scheduled to ensure the aesthetic dentistry is protecting the patient’s appearance and overall dental health.