When you think of cosmetic dentistry, you probably picture procedures like teeth whitening, dental veneers, or braces. All of these are examples of cosmetic dentistry, but there is more to it than that. Cosmetic dentistry is the search for beauty, often in the classical sense. It is about symmetry, balance and harmony. It is based on the idea of beauty as it was described by the Greeks in their search for truth and meaning in art.
What is cosmetic dentistry also known as?
A smile that is crooked, crowded or missing a tooth doesn’t only affect your self-esteem, it can also cause you to suffer from other health problems. In some cases, Cosmetic dentistry can prevent or reduce more severe issues such as bone loss in the jaw and gums.
Unlike restorative dentistry, which is necessary on health grounds, cosmetic dentistry is not covered by most dental insurance plans. It is purely elective and focuses on improving dental aesthetics in terms of color, position, shape, size and alignment.
There are many benefits to cosmetic dentistry, and choosing the right dentist can help you achieve your ideal smile. The most common cosmetic procedure is teeth whitening, which can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. Other cosmetic procedures include enamel shaping (sculpting) and dental bonding, which can fix chipped or broken teeth, fill cavities and cover up small spaces in between your teeth. You can also get a smile makeover with porcelain dental crowns, inlays and onlays or veneers.