Cosmetic dentistry Louisville KY is a specialized field within dentistry dedicated to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your smile. Typical services offered in cosmetic dentistry encompass teeth whitening, dental bonding, and the application of veneers. These treatments aim to improve the overall appearance of your smile by promoting harmony and symmetry among your teeth and gums.
Common Cosmetic Treatments
Tooth Contouring. This process involves the removal of minimal quantities of tooth enamel to alter the shape of your teeth. Given that natural enamel is limited, there is a maximum amount that your dentist is able to extract.
Gum Contouring. An overabundance of gum tissue can result in a smile that looks “gummy” or asymmetrical. In gum contouring surgery, your dentist excises the surplus gum tissue and reshapes the gum line, achieving a more symmetrical and balanced look.
Common Cosmetic Procedures
Inlays and Onlays
This cosmetic dentistry Louisville KY technique, commonly referred to as indirect fillings, is crafted by a dental laboratory. It is employed in cases where a tooth exhibits mild to moderate decay or lacks sufficient structure to accommodate a standard filling. If the tooth cusps remain intact, the inlay is directly affixed to the surface of the tooth. Conversely, if there is damage to the cusp or a larger section of the tooth, a dentist may opt for an onlay to encompass the entire surface of the tooth.
Historically, inlays and onlays were constructed from gold; however, they are now predominantly fabricated in dental laboratories using a composite of porcelain or ceramic materials. These restorations are bonded to the teeth with adhesive dental cement, providing essential support that strengthens the teeth, restores their original shape, and helps prevent further decay or deterioration.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a dental procedure designed to repair teeth that are decayed, damaged, or discolored by using a material that closely matches the color of natural tooth enamel. The process begins with the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth, after which the composite material is applied to the tooth’s surface. The dentist then shapes the composite to achieve the desired form and hardens it using a high-intensity light. Commonly known as “bonding,” this technique effectively conceals the damage and restores the tooth’s appearance to that of a healthy one. It is considered one of the more affordable options in cosmetic dentistry Louisville KY for patients dealing with issues such as decay, chips, cracks, or worn edges.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers, typically crafted from high-quality ceramic, are custom-designed shells that cover the front surface of natural teeth. These veneers provide a highly realistic appearance and can address a variety of aesthetic concerns, including misaligned teeth, damaged enamel, and gaps between teeth. The application process involves the dentist adhering the veneer to the front of each tooth using a specialized dental adhesive, ensuring a secure and natural-looking fit.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening ranks among the most sought-after cosmetic dentistry Louisville KY treatments available today. This procedure can often be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office. Initially, the dental hygienist will clean each tooth by removing plaque, tartar, and other debris, thereby restoring its natural look. Following this cleaning, a bleaching agent is applied to lighten the teeth, achieving a shade that is often significantly whiter than their original color.
Implants
Dental implants serve as a solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. A dentist places a small titanium screw into the jawbone at the location of the absent tooth, which acts as a foundation for a crown. These implants closely resemble the adjacent natural teeth, making them nearly unnoticeable. After the bone and surrounding tissue integrate with the implant, it becomes firmly anchored. It is essential for patients to maintain rigorous oral hygiene both during the implant placement process and following the completion of the procedure to effectively remove plaque and food particles from the area.
