If you’re searching for a cosmetic dentist in Rye, NY here’s some things you first need to know.
Cosmetic dentistry deals mostly the appearance, rather than the health of the teeth; although the both of them are obviously not mutually exclusive. For example, when you get white fillings, they can be considered cosmetic because they “look” better, but at the same time, they can also be healthier because they require less removal of tooth structure. In more complex cases however, cosmetic dentistry can be a lifesaver, because other results which might be acceptable health-wise are just not as good-looking or functional. Cosmetic dentistry involves all dentistry that’s not strictly necessary for health reasons. Much of it is a matter of personal preferences, needs, and opinions. While we all feel we know a beautiful smile when we see one, there is no perfect smile. That’s because each person has a different perception of what is beautiful; you and your cosmetic dentist may even have a difference of opinion. So it’s important that you discover what you really like and then communicate that to your dentist.
How do I select a good dentist in this specialty?
Choosing a cosmetic dentist is crucial, as it is for any other health medical professional. The first step would be to look at your smile and determine what you want to change. Your cosmetic dentist may have some other apprehensions and concerns when you visit, but it’s best to arrive having your own wish list; then together, you can work along to decide what best steps to take toward your new smile!
Aesthetic & Cosmetic Dentistry – The controversy and the Truth
There is a difference to be made between aesthetic dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. Aesthetic dentistry implies restoring teeth to their normal appearance. Cosmetic dentistry involves improving the shape, the color, or arrangement of teeth to make them look better to the eye of the beholder, which often can mean they can “look fake”. Ideally, all dentistry should be aesthetically pleasing especially where front teeth are concerned. Many dentists advertise themselves as providing “cosmetic dentistry”, even though what they really mean is that they are providing aesthetic dentistry. The reason why they use the term “cosmetic dentistry” is because that’s what people google for. The aesthetic/cosmetic distinction is very blurry. The terms are interpreted differently even within the dental community – with some dentists referring to “aesthetic dentistry” when they really mean “cosmetic dentistry” and vice versa.
Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is very a very common and highly requested treatment. It doesn’t appear to carry any major health risks. The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult with a trusted dentist first before considering whitening your teeth- for people with super sensitive teeth, whitening would not be immediately recommended. The lower the concentration of the bleaching agent is, the less likely it is that there will be sensitivity. That would mean that you’ll have to do it over a longer period of time, in order to get the wanted results. Teeth whitening usually to work best with a custom tray made by a dental professional. Something to note: Teeth whitening or bleaching will NOT lighten existing dental work like bonding, sealants, white fillings, crowns, or bridges. You should also be aware that the bleaching isn’t permanent and you’ll have to re-do it every so often. So if you have bleaching done and dental work which matches the whitened shade, you will need to keep up the bleaching. In this case, bleaching will be a long-term commitment. There is some debate about the safety of tooth whitening for purely cosmetic purposes. Not much detailed proven research has been done conclusively.
Amalgam Composite Fillings
Amalgam fillings are off-white fillings- they look more real, because it is the same color as your natural tooth, to most patients, it’s more pleasant to smile and laugh and not see dark coverings on their teeth.
Some cosmetic dentists would also argue that it reduces the chance of undetectable decay leading to a silent destruction of tooth structure until pain indicates the need for treatment, and that amalgam can expand over the years, possibly causing a tooth to crack.
On the other hand, conservative dentists agree that every time you remove a filling, you remove a bit more tooth substance, plus you irritate the tooth with more trauma. Every time you remove a filling and put another in its place, you may cause the risk of killing the nerve of the tooth and in turn, needing more complex treatment (Root Canal). So having a lot of amalgam fillings replaced for cosmetic reasons may not be such a good idea after all. A filling should not be replaced unless it is damaged, broken, or has decay around the edges or underneath. Amalgam fillings can last for a very long time (some sources estimate 14 – 40 years or even longer – it’s not unusual for an amalgam filling to last a lifetime). So the very fact that you have a mouthful of them and haven’t seen a dentist in a while doesn’t mean they need to be changed. Amalgam has its advantages – for example, it tends to be self-sealing which means that amalgam fillings resist recurrent decay better than white fillings. A dentist should not replace fillings that don’t need to be replaced. If a dentist tells you that amalgam is toxic and have to be removed, snatch off that bib and run. So, it is ultimately up to the patient and the dentist to make a wise and educated decision about which route to go.
Veneers & Cosmetic Crowns
Veneers are often placed for cosmetic reasons, sort of like plastic surgery. What are they exactly? They are thin pieces of porcelain which are glued over the front of the teeth, because they are severely discolored, or badly misshapen. Because they require the removal of tooth structure, they’re “unhealthier” than doing nothing (assuming it’s done purely for appearance’s sake) and the procedure carries some risk of doing damage to the tooth. They will also be need to replaced 10 or 20 years down the line. Veneers are NOT reversible, so you’re stuck with them for the rest of your life. So it is imperative to make sure that this is what you want. Because results vary substantially from one dentist to another, it is a patient’s responsibility to do their research, and make sure to have a look at photos of previous veneers dentists have done. You’ll notice massive differences in what dentists think looks aesthetically pleasing – for example, some cosmetic dentists seem rather don’t mind the boxy, chiclet horse like teeth look…. Remember, it is YOUR money that you are spending, make sure that you will be very happily satisfied with your results. Placing crowns for the purpose of improving appearance is a little more invasive than veneers. It involves shaving off more tooth structure. Note: Both veneers and crowns inflict trauma to the treated teeth and may then make root canal treatment necessary at a later stage. Also, some people have reported that they were not informed as to how much tooth structure would actually be removed and then were shocked and saddened when they found out. Always make sure that you understand what a cosmetic procedure involves before making a decision!
Dentures
For years, dentures have been considered a tried and true method for tooth replacement in many cases. However, they come with their own set of issues. The main problem is that dentures rest on teeth and gums for stability. This can very well encourage bone loss, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Nevertheless, dentures can be relined every few years to compensate for bone loss and any compromised facial integrity. There have been modern advances in dentures, as there have been in many other areas of dental healthcare, and an overdenture retained by implants may be an option. Overdentures are a combination of traditional dentures and the newer science of dental implants to prevent bone loss that could result from dentures alone.
Conservatic Dentistry
Conservative dentistry incorporates dental treatments aimed to preserve existing teeth. Conservative dental services include fillings, cosmetic dental services as well as root canal treatments. A conservative dentist believes in the power of natural teeth, and will do all they can to have you retain your actual natural born teeth. They will try all the necessary procedures that would contribute to the salvaging of the teeth as much as possible before simply giving up on a tooth that may seem perhaps like “a lost cause”. That is why if you may have a not so conservative, more so traditional or aggressive dentist, it would be recommended to visit another professional for a second opinion, if your tooth has to be extracted.
To discuss any of these topics in further detail, or to schedule an appointment, please call our offices in Rye, NY (914-246-5437).