What is Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry boosts the look of your teeth, gums, and smile. These treatments can fix discoloration, alignment, and minor imperfections. Procedures that are considered cosmetic dentistry can significantly improve your confidence and self-esteem. Keep reading to see what is included and if cosmetic dentistry is the right answer for you.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry a Specialty?

No, cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty within dentistry. The American Dental Association (ADA) does not classify it as a distinct specialty like orthodontics or prosthodontics. However, many general dentists receive additional training in cosmetic procedures to enhance their skills. This training can include:

• Aesthetic Dentistry Courses: Focuses on techniques for veneers, bonding, and teeth whitening.
• Smile Design Workshops: Covers principles of symmetry, proportion, and color to craft attractive smiles.
• Advanced Restorative Techniques: Teaching the use of materials like composite resin and porcelain for natural-looking results.
• Laser Dentistry Training: For precise cosmetic procedures like gum contouring and teeth whitening.
• Orthodontic Certifications: Including Invisalign or other clear aligner systems.

What Type of Dentist Does Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry in Phoenix focuses on improving the look of your smile. From simple whitening to advanced restorations, different dental professionals offer these services.

• General Dentists perform many cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding. They often complete extra training in aesthetic dentistry to enhance their skills.
• Prosthodontists are specialists in restoring and replacing teeth. They handle advanced cosmetic treatments like dental implants and full-mouth reconstructions.
• Orthodontists work on straightening teeth and correcting bites. They offer treatments like braces and Invisalign, which have cosmetic benefits.

Recommendation: You better begin with a general dentist for an evaluation. They can treat you directly or refer you to a specialist for more complex needs.

What Falls Under Cosmetic Dentistry?

Many procedures are considered cosmetic dentistry because they provide functional benefits and focus on enhancing your smile and boosting confidence:

• Teeth whitening because they lighten discolored teeth.
• Veneers since they cover and improve the shape or color of teeth.
• Bonding because it fixes chips or cracks with tooth-colored materials.
• Dental implants because they replace missing teeth for a complete smile.
• Inlays and onlays since they repair cavities or damage with custom fillings.

Are Dental Implants Considered Cosmetic?

Yes, they enhance both appearance and function and also restore function and allow you to chew, speak, and smile confidently. They are a long-lasting solution and enhance both aesthetics and oral health. Mimicking real teeth makes them a popular choice for cosmetic and functional needs alike.

Are Dentures Considered Cosmetic?

Yes. Dentures replace missing teeth and make them both functional and cosmetic. They both improve your ability to eat and talk and give you a natural-looking smile. Modern dentures are designed to give you a complete, polished look. They enhance facial structure by supporting the cheeks and lips.

Are Veneers Considered Cosmetic?

Yes, veneers are considered cosmetic dentistry. Such thin, custom-made shells cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They address issues like discoloration, chipped teeth, gaps, and minor misalignment. They create a natural look, which makes them a popular choice for smile makeovers and a key treatment in cosmetic dentistry.

Is Orthodontics Considered Cosmetic?

Orthodontics is not primarily considered cosmetic, but it often improves the appearance of a smile. Its primary focus is correcting alignment and bite issues to enhance oral health and functionality. However, straighter teeth and a more symmetrical smile are natural outcomes of orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign.

Is Invisalign Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

Yes, Invisalign is considered cosmetic dentistry. While it also improves bite alignment and oral health, many patients choose Invisalign for its aesthetic benefits. It combines functionality with cosmetic appeal and gives you a healthier and more attractive smile. It also improves oral health while many patients love its cosmetic benefits.

Are Braces Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

Braces are not primarily considered cosmetic dentistry, but they do have cosmetic benefits. Their main goal is to correct alignment issues, such as crooked teeth, gaps, and bite problems, to improve oral health and function. Modern options, like clear or lingual braces, further enhance their cosmetic appeal.

Are Fillings Considered Cosmetic?

Fillings can be considered cosmetic dentistry, based on the type. Traditional metal fillings focus on function, repairing cavities, and restoring tooth structure. However, tooth-colored fillings, made from composite resin or porcelain, are designed to blend with your natural teeth. These fillings restore function while enhancing aesthetics.

What is the Difference Between Cosmetic and Non-Cosmetic Dentistry?

As cosmetic dentistry improves your smile’s appearance, non-cosmetic dentistry focuses on oral health and function. Their function is significant in supporting your teeth health and beauty.

Cosmetic Dentistry:

• Focuses on boosting the appearance of teeth, gums, and smiles.
• Common treatments include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and Invisalign.
• Goals are aesthetic, such as improving color, shape, and alignment.

Non-Cosmetic Dentistry:

• Focuses on maintaining oral health and treating dental issues.
• Includes procedures like cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions.
• Goals are functional, such as preventing decay and ensuring healthy teeth.

What is Considered Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic dental surgery focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. Treatments like gum contouring are considered cosmetic dentistry because they create a more balanced and attractive smile. Common types include:

• Adjusting gum and reshaping uneven or excessive gum tissue for a balanced look.
• Dental implants which replace missing teeth with natural-looking options.
• Veneers or crowns which enhance the shape, size, or color of teeth.
• Orthognathic surgery, which corrects jaw alignment, improving both appearance and function.

What is Considered Cosmetic Dentistry for Insurance?

Most purely cosmetic procedures, like whitening and veneers, aren’t covered by insurance. Functional treatments, like crowns or implants, may qualify for partial coverage. Typically, insurance covers 50% to 80% of medically necessary treatments but 0% for purely cosmetic ones. Check your plan for details.

However, procedures that also improve function, such as crowns, may qualify for partial coverage.

Best Cosmetic Dentistry in Arizona

Cosmetic dentistry helps you feel more confident and radiant. We present a wide range of services like Whitening, Veneers, and Invisalign. Schedule your consultation and embrace the smile of your dreams.

Conclusion

Cosmetic dentistry puts art and science together and create beautiful smiles. Whether you need a small touch-up or a full makeover, a skilled dentist can help. Don’t pospone your cosmetic dental needs and invest in the confidence a great smile can bring.

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