Cosmetic Dentistry Explained
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of a person's teeth, gums, and smile. It involves various dental procedures that can improve the aesthetics of the teeth, as well as their function. Cosmetic dentistry can be used to address a wide range of dental concerns, from stained or discolored teeth to misaligned or missing teeth.
Dr. Anadioti is a Board-Certified Prosthodontist as well as the Co-Founder and Clinical Managing Partner of WELNOX Studio. Not all dentists are created equal, and Dr. Anadioti is here to prove it. She is a leader in Digital Dentistry with grants and published research in peer-reviewed journals. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics and the Prosthodontic Commissioner on the ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation. Dr. Anadioti is a national and international figure and the recipient of multiple awards both locally and nationally.
Teeth Whitening
One of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening. This treatment is designed to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth, leaving them whiter and brighter. Teeth whitening can be done in-office, using a powerful bleaching solution that is applied to the teeth and activated with a special light. It can also be done at home, using custom-fitted trays and a weaker bleaching solution.
Living life shows on teeth; years of drinking coffee, tea, soda, or red wine, as well as smoking, can darken your teeth. Our whitening options are both easy and non-invasive, and you can remove years of stain and color in a single treatment. During your appointment, WELNOX staff will set you comfortably with a variety of entertainment options to enjoy. A solution gel will be carefully and evenly applied to your teeth, taking precautions to avoid the gums. The solution will be left on the teeth for 15-minute intervals and then washed away. After three intervals of 15 minutes, your teeth will typically have lifted three to four levels on the shade guide! Your teeth will be getting brighter while you’re watching your favorite show, experiencing VR, or listening to your favorite tunes.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are another popular cosmetic dental treatment. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental problems, including chips, cracks, gaps, and stains. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and can last for many years with proper care.
Think of a porcelain veneer like a contact lens but for your teeth! Porcelain veneers are extremely thin sheets of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your tooth. At WELNOX, we take an artistic approach to dental veneer treatments. We make sure your finished smile looks natural and seamless. People will wonder what your secret is to such a perfect, stunning smile! If you have missing teeth, talk with our dentists to learn more about veneers and other restorative options. If porcelain veneers are the best solution for you, we'll give your smile a gentle cleaning and bond the veneer to your tooth with special dental cement. Your veneers will feel natural and comfortable!
Dental Implants
Dental implants are another type of cosmetic dental treatment that can improve the appearance and function of the teeth. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, as they can last for many years with proper care.
When you’re dealing with broken, missing, or severely damaged teeth, your confidence can suffer. More importantly, these issues might also take a toll on your overall health. Dental implant restorations may be the right solution for you. At WELNOX, we will compare options together and choose the treatment that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Dental implants are made of titanium, one of the most biocompatible materials on the market. Even if you have a metal allergy, you are still likely to be an excellent candidate for implants.
The implant is designed to function as the root of a tooth. It is placed entirely in the jaw bone, just as your tooth’s natural root is. The top portion of the implant can be either a single tooth, or a part of a bridge helping to replace multiple teeth, or a component designed to improve a denture or partial denture. At WELNOX, our dental specialists will work with you to carefully outline every step of your treatment plan so you know exactly what to expect.
First, we'll use 3D imaging technology to visualize your bone condition and ensure proper implant placement. We'll then give your implant ample time to heal — as much as you need! A few months later, we’ll create and bond your final restoration in place. After that, we’ll help you understand how to properly care for and maintain your implant and healthy smile.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign clear aligners are another type of cosmetic dental treatment. Invisalign is a system of clear, removable aligners that are used to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and are changed out every few weeks as the teeth gradually shift into their desired position. Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, as the aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Unlike traditional metal braces, which use wires and brackets to move teeth into the correct position, Invisalign aligners are custom-made, removable trays that fit snugly over the teeth.
Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist who is trained in using the Invisalign system. The orthodontist will take digital impressions of your teeth and use them to create a 3D model of your mouth. Based on this model, a series of custom-made aligners will be designed to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.
Once your aligners are ready, you will wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss. Each set of aligners is slightly different from the one before it, so as you progress through the series, your teeth will gradually shift into the desired position.
The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of your dental issues and the complexity of your case. On average, Invisalign treatment takes about 12-18 months, but some cases may take longer.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that are used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are typically made from a combination of materials such as acrylic, resin, and porcelain, and are custom-fitted to each individual's mouth. Dentures can be used to replace either a few missing teeth or an entire arch of teeth, and can be designed to look natural and function well.
There are several types of dentures available, including complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth in an arch are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Partial dentures are designed to fill the gaps left by missing teeth and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting.
Dentures can take some time to get used to, and it may take a few weeks for the mouth to adjust to the new appliance. Eating and speaking with dentures can be challenging at first, but most people adapt quickly with practice. It is important to clean dentures regularly to prevent bacterial buildup and maintain oral hygiene. Dentures should be removed and soaked in a cleaning solution overnight, and brushed with a soft-bristled brush to remove any debris.
In addition to traditional dentures, there are also implant-supported dentures which are anchored in place using dental implants. This provides a more secure and stable fit, and can make it easier to eat and speak with dentures.
Overall, dentures can be an effective solution for those with missing teeth, and can help restore both the appearance and function of the mouth. It is important to work with a dentist to ensure the proper fit and maintenance of dentures to ensure their long-term success.
Cosmetic dentistry can have a significant impact on a person's self-esteem and confidence. By improving the appearance of the teeth, cosmetic dental treatments can help people feel more comfortable and confident in their smile. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced dentist who can help you achieve the results you desire. With the right treatment plan, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that you can be proud of.
