Cosmetic dentistry is becoming more and more popular the world over as a cheap, quick and effective option for a dramatic makeover. Learn more bout cosmetic dentistry and how it can help you get that gorgeous smile you have always wanted.

What do you need to know about Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the specialized branch of dentistry that deals with enhancing the aesthetic appearance of teeth along with improving functionality. The traditional approach was to concentrate just on maintaining functionality of teeth without much regard to how the treated teeth appeared. Things have changed for the better with cosmetic dentistry.

Cosmetic dentistry helps alter the appearance of teeth and mouth to more closely match your idea of what is visually pleasing. Cosmetic dental procedures are performed to give you the smile that you desire, your needs and wishes are of utmost importance here.

Santa Monica cosmetic dentistry offers many procedures that can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth.

The following are some of the options available at the Santa Monica cosmetic dentist:

Teeth whitening or teeth bleaching
As you age, the color of the teeth can change. This happens because of the changes in the mineral structure of the teeth. As the minerals are eroded, the enamel becomes porous and the underlying dentin becomes more visible. This causes the teeth to appear yellow. Teeth can appear dull and yellow also because of stains left behind by food, beverages, smoking and tobacco.

No matter how your teeth are stained, they can be restored to their original color with the help of cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening and bleaching. These techniques use special whitening gels that contain oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. The gel is applied on the teeth and activated using high intensity light to oxidize the stains and remove dirt from the teeth surface.

Shaping of the enamel
If your teeth are too big or you are not pleased with their structure, a portion of the enamel can be ground away to shape the teeth to the proportions that are more aesthetically pleasing. The procedure is relatively minor, but it must be undertaken only by a skilled dentist because once the enamel is lost it cannot be replaced.

Teeth bonding
Tooth bonding is great to cover up peripheral imperfections such as chipped or cracked teeth, discolorations etc. Composite material of a color that closely resembles that of the natural teeth is applied on the teeth surface. It is then sculpted, hardened and polished for the desired effect.

Dental veneers
Veneers are custom-made porcelain wafers that are fixed to your natural teeth. They help cover up defects such as gaps, chips, cracks and also discolorations that cannot be removed by bleaching. Veneers are also used to straighten crooked teeth

Veneers serve to enhance the physical appearance and also provide an extra layer of protection. Lumineers are an advanced form of veneers. They are much thinner and can be fixed after negligible modification to the existing teeth.

Dental restorations
Dentures, bridges and dental implants are dental restorative options. Dentures are temporary and can be easily taken out of a put into the mouth. Bridges are more permanent but require modification of adjacent teeth.  Dental implants are the most effective, durable and permanent teeth restorative option, but are more expensive and more time-consuming.

Drop in at the Santa Monica dentist to know more about the dental procedures that can give you that perfect smile.