COSMETIC DENTIST IN RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TX

After looking at yourself for a minute in the mirror today, you see that your teeth need a touch-up. Looking at it, you observe that it needs some bleaching and a little bit of straightening. After weighing down your options, you came across – cosmetic dentist. How do cosmetic procedures differ from general dentists? What are the options? In this article, we will help you understand how cosmetic dentistry helps you achieve your definition of a perfect smile.

What is a Cosmetic Dentist?

The cosmetic industry is especially dedicated to refining the appearance of teeth and, at times, their function. The difference between a general dentist from a cosmetic dentist is that the former will look after the health of your teeth, and the latter will ensure that your smile is camera-ready. Cosmetic dentistry will get rid of imperfections for you to finally be confident with your teeth. Cosmetic dentists undergo training that focuses primarily on the collection of procedures below. They have the experience and technical knowledge when performing the treatments to their patients.   

When you visit Iman Dental Center at Rio Grande Valley, we will not only describe the procedures, but we will also clarify the process and explain why you need them. Here are the common cosmetic dental procedures and why they might be the best option for you:

Teeth Whitening

Over the years of eating, drinking, having personal habits such as smoking can stain and even damage the teeth. Teeth whitening or “bleaching,” is one of the most basic cosmetic procedures that can be done at the dental clinic or at home. To restore the natural appearance or whiten the teeth even more, cosmetic dentists must first remove the tartar, plaque, and other debris. 

Teeth whitening is best for patients who want a simple yet effective way to improve their smile and for those who need no more than a little bit of brightening. Also, bleaching is one of the most affordable options in cosmetic dentistry. If you come across bleaching products over-the-counter, keep in mind that they don’t always possess the brightening touch as much as cosmetic dentistry does.  

Dental Veneers

The top-notch procedure in cosmetic dentistry is dental veneers – they are thin porcelain shells or medical-grade ceramic that cosmetic dentists fit over the facial structure of your teeth. The primary step of the treatment is to gently file down the enamel of the tooth. Next, you will take a dental impression that will serve as a reference to the customized veneers. You will wear temporary veneers until permanent ones are ready for you. Veneers look exceptionally realistic and are best if you have dark staining that doesn’t go away with teeth bleaching. It is also ideal for patients who have fractured or chipped teeth.  

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is another cosmetic procedure that works for missing teeth. A dental bridge is a false tooth that your dentist will secure using two abutment caps. The caps will be on the adjacent teeth of the missing tooth. Some patients see dental bridges to be a better procedure than dentures. Below are three of the benefits dental bridges have over dentures: 

• Aesthetic – dental bridges give their patients more aesthetic benefits since they can blend easily and realistically to the other teeth. 
• Functionality – dental bridges are sealed like normal teeth. So, patients don’t have to worry about cleaning them separately. 
• Comfort – dental bridges are made of porcelain, and this brings a more natural feeling to the wearer. 

Dental Crowns

Tooth restoration procedures fall under the cluster of the cosmetic industry since they seek to refine the look of the teeth. If you are under a Cosmetic Dentist in Rio Grande Valley, then dental crowns should be your primary choice. Dental crowns are false teeth made from materials used to cover a damaged tooth. Your cosmetic dentist will recommend you these procedures for reasons such as: 

• Dental crowns come in various materials; ceramic, metal, gold, porcelain, etc. 
• Dental crowns improve the tooth surface from the color to its shape. 
• Dental crowns offer a long-lasting solution. When a tooth is attached, you are apparently getting a new tooth. 

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and Onlays, also identified as indirect fillings, are ideal for patients experiencing a moderate decay or not having enough tooth structure that supports a filling. Indirect fillings are made in dental laboratories from resin materials and anchored to the patient’s teeth using adhesive dental cement. Let’s say there are no damages to the tooth cusps; the dentist can anchor the inlay directly to the tooth surface. However, if there are damages to the tooth, the dentist will use onlay to mask the tooth’s entire surface.

Why Invest for Cosmetic Dentistry? 

Confidence and Better Emotional Health

Dental imperfections can make you feel insecure and self conscious about your smile. Investing in any cosmetic procedure can restore your teeth and even improve them. Having a healthy smile can boost your confidence and, in the long run, translates into better emotional health. 

Fix Bad Breath

The misalignment of teeth creates spaces for bacteria to hide. These spaces can be difficult to clean during brushing and flossing, making it easy for the bacteria to multiply. As we all know, bacteria can cause bad breath, and cosmetic dentistry procedures can fix these problems.  

Improved Overall Health

People that invest in cosmetic dentistry are also motivated to get the best of dental hygiene. With the assistance of a cosmetic dentist, you will find yourself improving your lifestyle to benefit your overall health. For example, you may have to minimize or even quit excessive drinking, eat junk food, or smoke to prevent your teeth from stains and bad breath. Generally, cosmetic procedures do improve not only your appearance but also your overall health.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Rio Grande Valley

If you wish to have a whiter and better smile or wish to completely improve with bleaching and fillings, Iman Dental Center at Rio Grande Valley can help you in achieving the smile you desire. Give us a call and schedule a consultation today to learn more about the cosmetic procedures and find out which fit you best!