The recent technological advancements in the field of cosmetic dentistry have turned it into a highly credible branch of dentistry. There are several non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic dental procedures that can transform the aesthetics and appearance of a patient substantially. Improvements in oral health and functionality are also great advantages of various cosmetic dental treatments.
At the surface, it may seem to some of us that the solutions offered by cosmetic dentistry are precisely that – cosmetic. But the fact is that aesthetics and appearance are as important as part of the human psyche as the real health and functionality concerns. Nobody likes to look “different” or unnatural compared to others. Nobody likes to get noticed and stared at for all the wrong reasons.
Those who suffer from poor oral cosmetic conditions such as discolored or stained teeth, misaligned teeth, protruding jaws and teeth, broken or chipped teeth, or abnormal gum tissues, generally tend to face a lot of problems in their social life. Many such patients become highly self-conscious and stop smiling and laughing naturally when they are with other people. It dents their natural joy and charm of life because they are constantly worried about revealing their poor dental aesthetics before others.
Cosmetic dentistry helps to correct such basic appearance problems easily and very conservatively. The result is that the patient’s natural smile and laughter gets restored back to its original. His or her self-confidence improves considerably, the quality of life gets better, and generally the patients are able to do much better in their social life as well as at their workplace.
From the cosmetic dental surgeon’s perspective also the entire effort is gratifying and fulfilling. When the dentist sees the patient’s transformation from a debilitating appearance to a beaming and confident one, it becomes a most rewarding experience even for him or her. It is a wonderful emotional feeling for both the patient and the dentist of how cosmetic dentistry can bring about a positive transformation in the patient.
Without a doubt, cosmetic dentistry is worth the time and money invested in it. However, it is important for the patients to have realistic expectations in order to be happy with the results of treatment. At the same time, the cosmetic dentist needs to educate the patient and proceed with a conservative approach, giving first priority to oral health considerations over and above the cosmetic considerations for the patient.
Smile makeover that involved a gum lift, two implants and cosmetic crowns
The patient had severely worn teeth that were very short. Her front two teeth were not restorable and were ultimately lost, but replaced with implants. Her bite was then opened to a “height” that she could tolerate and with a smile that she was thrilled with.