Cosmetic procedures are continually being perfected and as a result, more and more people are considering cosmetic makeovers these days. This is as true in dentistry as it is in plastic surgery with one huge difference to consider. People will notice your smile long before they notice your love-handles (or lack of them).
Not only are dentists caring for the health and sound structure of your teeth, gums and bone, they are also looking beyond what was once considered traditional care. In many ways, cosmetic dentistry is essential dental healthcare that once fell into the cracks between the dental and medical specialties. Cosmetic dentistry treats many flaws that seem obvious, as well as conditions that might surprise you.
Crooked or Damaged Teeth
Chipped, cracked and crooked teeth are among the more obvious needs we would take to the dentist or orthodontist. You may not think of their treatment as “cosmetic” because they can cause real health problems including severe pain. Many people find that their bite becomes misaligned from chipped or crooked teeth. And if tooth grinding caused the chipped teeth, there more problems could result such as gum inflammation or loosened teeth.
TMJ/TMD
One of these problems is temperomandibular joint dysfunction, commonly referred to as either TMD or TMJ. TMD is painful itself, but most people don’t know that it can cause migraine headaches. Cosmetic dentists trained in neuromuscular dentistry can treat the causes of TMD. If your medical doctor has not been successful in treating your headaches, neck aches or pain around your jaw, ear, or temple, it’s time to see a cosmetic dentist.
Discolored Teeth
Tooth enamel is susceptible to staining from many common foods and drinks. Aging brings with it a tendency of teeth to yellow or darken. Some people have naturally dark teeth. While this is more cosmetic than health-related, tooth whitening is the most common of the cosmetic treatments.
Smile Makeovers
Smile makeovers can include any of several treatments that improve your appearance. Cosmetic dentistry smile makeovers treat …
• Gummy smiles.
• Tooth whitening.
• Porcelain veneers.
• Dental crown.
• Bridges.
• Tooth-colored fillings.
• Dental bonding.
• Orthodontics.
• Tooth recontouring.
The days of having to live with an unattractive smile or painful effects of TMD are history.
ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com
Tags: Bridges, Cosmetic Dentistry, dental bonding, dental crown, Porcelain Veneers, tooth whitening