What Is A Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist is a dental professional who specialises in enhancing the aesthetic appearance of a patient's smile. Unlike general dentistry which primarily focuses on oral health and functionality, cosmetic dentistry revolves around procedures and treatments designed to improve the visual appeal of teeth, gums, and overall facial features. 

What does a Cosmetic Dentist do?

Cosmetic dentists offer a diverse array of treatments aimed at enhancing the overall appearance of your teeth. Their expertise extends to addressing concerns like discolouration, misalignment, chipping, gaps, and the comprehensive design of your smile. 

Employing various techniques and procedures, Cosmetic Dentists specialise in creating aesthetic transformations that go beyond traditional oral health and functionality. Let's delve deeper into some of the specific methods they employ to achieve these cosmetic improvements.

Dental Veneers

Veneers present a highly effective method for enhancing the aesthetics of your teeth, resulting in a natural and beautiful smile. Notably, this procedure boasts several advantages, including being less invasive than crowns and the ability to deliver a lasting, naturally appealing smile. 

Despite these benefits, it's important to weigh potential drawbacks. Factors such as the cost associated with veneers and the occasional need for maintenance should be considered. In summary, for individuals seeking a transformative enhancement for their smiles, veneers stand out as an excellent solution, combining aesthetic benefits with considerations of comfort and longevity.

Read more about dental veneers here. 

Teeth Whitening 

Teeth whitening stands out as a fundamental cosmetic dentistry procedure and is notably one of the more budget-friendly options. Over time, teeth can develop stains from various sources such as food, beverages, medications, or habits like smoking. Many individuals opt for teeth whitening to enhance the radiance of their smile. Following the removal of plaque, tartar, and other residues, teeth whitening involves the bleaching of the tooth surface to achieve a brighter and whiter appearance. While readily available over-the-counter products such as toothpaste, rinses, and whitening strips can yield some results, opting for professional tooth whitening can lead to a shade that is notably 5 to 8 times lighter.

Find out more about Teeth Whitening here. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants serve as a solution for the replacement of missing teeth, functioning as artificial tooth roots with a shape akin to screws. Once these dental implants are carefully positioned in the jawbone, they form a bond with the natural bone, providing a robust foundation to support one or more artificial teeth, referred to as crowns. This integration between the implants and the jawbone ensures stability and durability, mimicking the strength and functionality of natural teeth.

More on Dental Implants here. 

Dental Crowns 

A dental crown, commonly referred to as a dental cap, is designed to encase a decayed or damaged tooth. Serving a dual purpose, these crowns are instrumental in preventing a weakened tooth from breaking, and they can also be employed for cosmetic purposes, concealing misshapen or severely discoloured teeth. Additionally, dental crowns find application in covering various dental procedures, including root canals, enamel fillings, dental bridges, or dental implants. Their versatility makes dental crowns a valuable tool in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Find out more about Dental Crowns here. 

Dental Bonding

In dental bonding, a cosmetic dentist utilises a moldable resin applied to the tooth, which is subsequently hardened using ultraviolet light. Following this, the dentist skillfully trims, shapes, and polishes the material to seamlessly integrate with the tooth's surface. 

Dental bonding proves effective in addressing various concerns, including repairing chips, cracks, and misshapen teeth, and managing tooth decay. Notably, for minor cosmetic imperfections, bonding emerges as a cost-effective alternative to traditional fillings or crowns. This versatile procedure not only restores dental aesthetics but also provides a more affordable solution for certain cosmetic dental issues.

Read more about Dental Bonding here. 

Smile Makeover 

A smile makeover involves a series of dental procedures designed to transform your smile according to your preferences. While a common component of a smile makeover is the inclusion of porcelain veneers, the process may encompass various other cosmetic dentistry services to achieve the desired results. This comprehensive approach ensures that the makeover addresses specific aesthetic goals, offering a customised and harmonious enhancement to your smile. 

Teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding stand out as popular choices for enhancing the visual appeal of your smile.

More about smile makeovers here. 

Some of the common reasons for visiting a Cosmetic Dentist are: 

• Decayed tooth 
• Misaligned teeth 
• Missing teeth 
• Damaged, cracked, or chipped teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth 
• Discoloured teeth 

What is the difference between a Cosmetic Dentist and a General Dentist? 

Cosmetic dentists and general dentists play distinct roles in oral healthcare, each focusing on different aspects of dental care. A general dentist is primarily concerned with the overall health of teeth and gums, providing routine check-ups, and preventive care, and addressing common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. They emphasise oral health maintenance, ensuring proper functionality and hygiene.

On the other hand, a cosmetic dentist focuses on the aesthetic aspects of dentistry, concentrating on enhancing the visual appearance of the teeth and smile. Cosmetic dentists consider the combination of function and aesthetics, offering procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and dental bonding to create a more attractive and symmetrical smile, while protecting the function and health of your teeth. They are skilled in artistry and design, working to achieve the desired aesthetic outcomes for their patients. 

While general dentists are crucial for overall oral health and preventive care, cosmetic dentists cater to those seeking smile transformations and improvements in dental aesthetics. The collaboration between these dental professionals ensures a comprehensive approach to both the health and appearance of a patient's smile, providing a well-rounded dental care experience.

Why does Cosmetic Dentistry cost more than General Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry in Australia often comes with a higher cost due to several factors. Firstly, the advanced training and specialised skills required for cosmetic procedures contribute to the expenses. Additionally, state-of-the-art technologies and high-quality materials used in cosmetic dentistry elevate the overall costs. Stringent quality standards and regulations in the Australian healthcare system also contribute to the pricing. Furthermore, personalised treatment plans and attention to detail in achieving aesthetic perfection increase the time invested by cosmetic dentists, impacting the overall cost. 

Moreover, not all cosmetic dental procedures are covered by dental insurance. Dental insurance policies typically prioritise treatments that are considered medically necessary for oral health, such as preventive care, basic restorative procedures, and essential treatments like fillings or extractions. Cosmetic procedures, which primarily focus on enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and smile, may not fall under the scope of coverage. Procedures like teeth whitening, veneers for purely cosmetic reasons, and certain orthodontic treatments may not be covered. Individuals considering cosmetic dentistry should carefully review their insurance policies and be prepared for potential out-of-pocket expenses for these elective procedures.

While the expenses may be higher, many individuals find the results and confidence gained through cosmetic dentistry to be well worth the investment.

Should I choose a Cosmetic Dentist or a General Dentist? 

Determining whether general or cosmetic dentistry is suitable for you involves assessing your specific requirements and financial considerations. If your goal is to enhance the overall health of your teeth, a visit to a general dentist may be the most fitting choice. On the other hand, if you aim to improve the aesthetic aspects of your teeth, a cosmetic dentist may be better suited to address your needs. Notably, Sydney Smile Doctor presents the advantage of providing both general and cosmetic dentistry services within a single facility, offering a comprehensive solution for all your dental needs.

These days, most general and family dental practices offer cosmetic dentistry without having an additional training or experience in the area. If you are seeking cosmetic treatments, it’s important to check with your dentist first that they have a focus in the area. 

Are you looking for a dental practice that offers both cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry? 

At Sydney Smile Doctors, we seamlessly combine both cosmetic and general dentistry. Providing top-notch and budget-friendly family dental care, the skilled team at Sydney Smille Doctor caters to all your oral health needs. Beyond general dentistry, we excel in cosmetic dentistry, ensuring your smile receives the aesthetic enhancements you desire. 

Book an appointment with us today.