Toothaches: Cause, Remedies and Long-term Solutions

Posted on: 13 April 2016

The demand for cosmetic dental treatments has soared in recent years.  This upward trajectory is likely to continue for some time, with many experts predicting that by 2020, the international cosmetic dentistry market will be worth $22.4 billion. Once thought to be accessible only by the rich and famous, dental work of this kind is now something which virtually everyone can avail themselves of, if they so choose.

What exactly is cosmetic dentistry?

As its title implies, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the teeth from an aesthetic viewpoint. While traditional dental practices treat issues relating to oral disease and hygiene, cosmetic dentists offer treatments which improve the position, size, shape and colour of the teeth, as well as the appearance of the gums.

What are some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures?

Some examples of this type of dental work include crown veneers, teeth whitening, reshaping of the gums, contouring of a tooth, or the insertion of bridgework where teeth are missing. Of these procedures, crown veneers are perhaps one of the most popular, as in addition to dramatically improving the overall appearance of the teeth, they can also serve as a protective barrier; they can, for example, cover teeth that have been damaged by gingivitis, act as an anchor for dental bridges, or even prevent a cracked tooth from falling apart. From an aesthetic perspective, they can also widen or lengthen a tooth, mask dental implants, and hide severe discolouration that cannot be fixed through whitening treatments. In this sense, crown veneers are both a restorative and a cosmetic dental procedure. They can be made from a mixture of materials, but are often designed from metal or porcelain; the latter tend to be more commonly-used, as in addition to being highly durable and natural-looking, porcelain crown veneers are resistant to stains.

Is cosmetic dentistry worth it?

In almost all cases, the answer is a resounding yes. Having cracked, uneven and discoloured teeth can have an enormous impact on a person's self- confidence; they may find themselves hesitant to speak or smile in social situations, for fear of drawing attention to their mouth. This self-consciousness can hold them back both personally and professionally.

The positive impact that it can have on a person's life should not be underestimated; while procedures of this nature can be time-consuming and costly, those that have this type of work done usually to view it as an investment in themselves, and in their future happiness. For more information, contact a company like Williams Landing Dental Clinic.