A New Outlook On Cosmetic Dentistry

A New Outlook On Cosmetic Dentistry

When most people think of cosmetic dentistry what comes to mind is usually the techniques for making smiles whiter and brighter. While this end result is easily accomplished with cosmetic techniques and materials, there is a lot more to cosmetics than meets the eye.

When a person goes to see a dentist, the dentist not only looks for problems that may exist (such as cavities, missing teeth, gum disease, bad bites etc.) but also decides on a patient by patient basis what is the best way to return the person to health and give that person the most attractive smile possible.

In the old days (way before my time), there were not very many materials available to dentists that would restore teeth adequately. Even George Washington with all his power and influence had to put up with wooden dentures - no wonder you never see him smile in his pictures! Fortunately for us we have had a lot of advances in porcelains, ceramics, composite resins and adhesives so that nobody has to know, and probably can't tell, whether your teeth have been restored or not.

There are ceramics available now that match tooth color and texture almost exactly. These ceramics may be used to fabricate crowns (caps) or bridges (ie. two caps holding a false tooth between them) that look completely natural.

Even complete or partial dentures (false teeth) can be made that fit more comfortably and look like they belong to the person. If Mr. Washington had these techniques available in his day, our dollar bill would definitely have had a grin on it.

Bleaching is becoming very popular now and people of all ages are taking advantage of this simple technique for making a dull smile shine. The products that are available at the dental office are varied and so are the methods of application. At my office I use a clear gel that is placed in a custom made tray that fits comfortably over your teeth. The results that we have gotten are remarkable and have been accomplished in one to two weeks.

Posterior resins - These tooth colored fillings have come a long way. Not only are they more natural and aesthetic looking, but they have other advantages as well. The preparation of the tooth to receive the filling can be done in a more conservative fashion. In this way, more of the healthy tooth structure is preserved. These fillings, when used with the total etch - total seal technique described in dental literature can protect the tooth from the leakage of bacteria which can occur where the tooth and filling meet. In conjunction with the use of the caries detector, these restorations have the potential for longer life.

Edilia Glenski, DMD is owner of Definitive Dental Care. She has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry since 1980 and is one of only eight dentists in the state of Florida Accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Glenski is also a Professor of Anatomy and Physiology at St. Petersburg College. Definitive Dental Care is located at 2311 Alternate 19 North, #3, Palm Harbor, FL 34683. She can be contacted by phone at (727) 772-8001.

http://Greatsmilepro.com

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By Dr Edilia Glenski