How To Find the Best Dentist for Your Specific Oral Health Needs
Selecting a dentist is a key decision for your health. The right dental professional can address your specific concerns, whether they are related to the appearance of your smile, the function of your teeth, or the alignment of your jaw. Two primary categories of dental care are cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetics of your teeth, while restorative dentistry is concerned with repairing damage and restoring function. Here’s information on different types of dental procedures, from teeth whitening to implants:
Cosmetic Dental Treatments
Cosmetic dental treatments are designed to enhance the visual appeal of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. These procedures are typically elective for oral health. A common example is professional teeth whitening, a procedure that lightens the shade of your teeth and helps remove stains or discoloration.
Cosmetic Whitening
In-office whitening procedures use highly concentrated whitening agents combined with specialized tools, like lasers, to deliver fast and noticeable results, often within a single session. Another option is take-home whitening kits provided by your dentist. These kits include custom-made trays and a professional-grade whitening gel that can be used at your convenience. While the results may take longer than those of in-office treatments, they are highly effective and allow for more control over the whitening process.
Cosmetic Veneers and Bonding
Other popular cosmetic treatments include porcelain veneers and tooth bonding. Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their color, shape, size, or length. Dental bonding is where a tooth-colored resin is applied to improve a tooth’s appearance. These services are performed by general or cosmetic dentists who have experience in aesthetic dental work.
Restorative Dental Treatments
Restorative dental treatments are focused on repairing structural problems with the teeth, restoring their function and integrity. These procedures are often necessary to address issues like tooth decay, damage from injury, or tooth loss. Common restorative procedures include dental fillings to treat cavities, crowns to cover and protect damaged teeth, and bridges or implants to replace missing teeth.
Some other restorative options are:
- Dentures
- Root Canals
- Inlays and Onlays
Orthodontic Dental Treatments
Orthodontic treatments address issues with the alignment of the teeth and jaws. While often associated with cosmetic improvements, proper alignment is also key to long-term oral health. Alignment improvements make teeth easier to clean and reduce strain on the jaw muscles.
Traditional braces are a well-known orthodontic treatment, using brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. Another popular option is clear aligners, which are a series of custom-made, removable trays that incrementally shift the teeth. An orthodontist, a dental specialist with advanced training in this area, typically provides these treatments.
Learn More About Teeth Whitening and Other Services
Understanding the distinctions between cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic care can help you find the best dentist for your specific needs. Whether you are interested in professional teeth whitening to brighten your smile or require more complex restorative work, there is a dentist who can help. To learn more about these or other procedures, contact a dental professional today.
