Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of smiles, including the teeth, gums, and bite alignment. While many patients associate cosmetic dentistry with aesthetic improvements, it can also have a positive impact on oral health.
Are you ready to see how cosmetic treatments can enhance your smile and overall health? Contact Town and Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, today to explore your options. Patients can request appointments with Dr. Thomas Wegner at (708) 383-0330.
Aesthetic dental care is about much more than a pretty smile. It’s about your well-being, too. In this blog post, we explore how cosmetic dentistry can enhance your oral health.
Correct Misaligned Teeth
Misaligned teeth not only affect the appearance of your smile but can also lead to various oral health issues. For example, crooked teeth:
- Can make it difficult to brush and floss effectively
- Accumulate more plaque, bacteria, and food debris
- Are more susceptible to dental decay and accidental damage
- Can lead to pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint
Cosmetic dentistry offers several options to correct misaligned teeth, including:
- Braces
- Clear aligners (like Invisalign®)
- Veneers
- Dental bonding
Straightening your teeth through cosmetic dentistry can improve your ability to maintain good oral hygiene. As a result, you can reduce your risk of tooth decay, and prevent future dental problems.
Address Tooth Decay and Damage
Common cosmetic dentistry treatments to restore damaged or decayed teeth may include:
- Dental fillings
- Crowns
- Dental bonding
- Veneers
These procedures not only improve the appearance of the teeth but also restore their functionality. By repairing damaged or decayed teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help to prevent further dental problems, such as infections or tooth loss.
Improve Gum Health
The appearance of our gums can impact our smiles, but they can also point to other health concerns, like gum disease or diabetes. Cosmetic dentistry can help to improve the health of our gums while enhancing their appearance.
Gum contouring and gum grafting are two procedures that a dentist can use to address gum issues, such as:
- Gum recession
- An uneven gum line
- Excess gum tissue (a gummy smile)
These treatments not only enhance the appearance of your smile but can also help to prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a common (and serious!) dental problem that affects approximately half of all Americans aged 30 and older. If untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues.
Replace Missing Teeth
Missing teeth not only affect the appearance of your smile but can also have a negative impact on your oral health. Gaps in your smile can lead to:
- Shifting of your remaining teeth
- Bite problems
- Bone loss in the jaw
Cosmetic dentistry offers several options for replacing missing teeth, including:
- Dental implants
- Bridges
- Full and partial dentures
By replacing missing teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help to restore the function of your teeth and prevent further dental problems.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Oak Park, IL
Aesthetic treatments are about much more than a dazzling smile. If you’re ready to discuss your options with Dr. Wegner, then request a consultation at Town and Country Dental here or at (708) 383-0330.