Latest Dentistry Techniques

Cosmetic Dentistry - Latest Techniques Explained
By Dave A. Jones

Cosmetic dentistry describes a set of techniques and procedures used to enhance a person?™s teeth, smile and ultimately confidence. It is widely acknowledged that the ?œsmilemakeover??that results can significantly improve a person?™s appearance leading to a more positive lifestyle, both socially and in the work environment.

A cosmetic dentist can use numerous techniques, solely or in combination to dramatically improve the teeth, gums and smile. These procedures range from simple tooth whitening to complex multiple tooth implants and full mouth reconstruction. No longer is the dental art confined to simple fillings and extractions!

The following are the main cosmetic dentistry techniques used today:

Tooth Whitening:

??considered to be one of the most accessible and affordable techniques, tooth whitening (or bleaching) comes in a variety of different forms. Typically this procedure involves the use of a special laser or halogen lamp and/or application of a bleaching gel of varying strengths. Several branded treatments are available including the popular ?œBiolase?? ?œZoom??and ?œBritesmile??

Optimal results can be achieved quite quickly and the technique is near painless, non-invasive and cost effective. Tooth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental procedure available today.

Dental Implants:

??a more complex procedure, dental implants involve implanting a titanium (or similar) rod into the jawbone to act as a stable base for an artificial tooth or to provide support for bridges, crowns or dentures. Titanium is usually used as the anchor rod because it integrates well with the surrounding bone and tissue with only very minor risk of rejection. Full mouth reconstructions often employ multiple tooth implants in conjunction with other techniques e.g. bonding.

Dental implants can last fifteen years or more but are quite an expensive option at up to $2500 per tooth. Dental implantology is also a highly specialised technique so care must be taken to choose a competent, fully qualified practitioner.

Dental Veneers: