Why Cosmetic Dentistry Isn’t Just For Looks

close up smile red lipstickThe words “cosmetic” and “dentistry” often make people hesitate. More often than not, people think that cosmetic dentistry is only for the vain, that it offers no such functional and health benefits whatsoever. However, the truth could not be any further from that.

While the main focus of cosmetic dentistry is to improve one’s look and to make patients feel better about themselves, the field actually offers much more than just improving appearances.

The Importance of a Great Smile

First off, the psychological and social benefits of having a nice-looking smile have been well-documented.

In relationships, the opposite sex is more likely to be attracted to you if you have a good smile, more so than your body type, style or even your hobbies.

In the workplace, having a good-looking smile is often a sign of honesty and trustworthiness. It also makes you look more affable, which can go a long way in helping you get that promotion.

Your self-esteem and confidence will also benefit greatly from how you’re able to flash your smile more often without having to worry about what others may think.

Functionally, cosmetic dentistry also offers plenty of benefits.

This includes the following:

  • In orthodontics.

While the main goal is to straighten teeth to give them a better appearance, the health benefits just can’t be ignored.

Mainly, tooth straightening takes care of the many risk factors of having crooked teeth. This includes increased risk for gum disease, tooth injuries and other health complications, as well as difficulty in chewing and unnecessary wearing in tooth enamel.

  • In gum reshaping.

Cosmetic dentists can use the same laser used to help those with gummy smiles to remove and seal hollows that trap and promote bacteria growth, which then helps prevent future infections.

  • In having missing teeth replaced.

Missing teeth can lead to a variety of dental problems, on top of making you feel conscious about yourself.

This includes:

  • Bone loss
  • Shifting and drifting inthe
  • Changing in the biteteeth
  • Difficulty chewing and speaking
  • Premature wear down of remaining teeth
  • Jaw joint changes

While tooth replacement isn’t just a cosmetic procedure, in cosmetic dentistry, more emphasis is put on making it look good. And, if you’re going to have your teeth replaced, wouldn’t it be better to use a material that resembles natural teeth best, such as porcelain?

  • In fixing cracked teeth. 

Cracked teeth don’t just look bad, but it’s also bad for your health. In severe cases, cracked teeth can lead to an infection that can spread deep down, which can reach the roots of the teeth.

Cosmetic dentists can help fix cracked teeth, or at least save them using crowns, bypassing the need of having them removed and replaced, or having to deal with the possible health risks.

Cosmetic Dentistry Is Worth it

Cosmetic dentistry offers plenty more benefits than what’s mentioned above.

For example, gaps in teeth that can cause crowding problems, toothaches, damage to the enamel and even tooth loss can be solved using veneers, among others.

Visit your dentist today to know more about how cosmetic dental procedures can improve more than just your appearance!

If you feel that would be benefit from cosmetic dentistry and would like to learn more, contact Dr. James Yankowskas at 987-649-773 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.tyngsborocosmeticdentist.com to learn about the dental services Tyngsboro Cosmetic Dentistry offers.

Dr. James Yankowskas proudly accepts patients from Lowell, Nashua, Dracut, Chelmsford, Dunstable and surrounding areas.

What Are Dental Implants?

dental implants Having a missing tooth or two can be a cause for embarrassment, as well as lead to problems with chewing, speaking and even eating. It may also create other oral health problems for you.

The good news is that these days, dental implant procedures can help restore the original function and look of your teeth, giving you back your original smile.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are surgically placed in your mouth, serving as a replacement for your natural tooth’s root. They are often made out of bone-like ceramic materials, as well as titanium and are surgically fused into your jawbone to provide a stable base for artificial teeth, ensuring a secure fit.

When used in conjunction with dentures, bridges and even crowns, the implants make sure that either one of these dental appliances do not move around. This helps make them feel far more natural and less uncomfortable compared to conventional bridges, dentures and crowns.

Advantages of Implants

While usually more expensive compared to other tooth replacement methods, there are certain advantages to dental implants, such as:

  • A secure, comfortable Implants make sure that the replacement teeth fit as comfortable as possible by making sure that they do not slip or shift when you talk, chew or bite.
  • Easy to clean. As long as you’re already taking proper care of your teeth, you don’t really need to make any adjustment when it comes to implants. This means they’re easy to clean since you take care of them the same way as natural teeth and they do not have to be taken out for cleaning or soaking.
  • Preserves jawbone. The constant shifting of teeth is often associated with other tooth replacement methods. However, with dental implants, the fit is as secure as possible, preventing any shifting and preserving jawbone, helping maintain the natural contour of your face.
  • No adjustments necessary. Not only do you clean them normally as you would your natural teeth, implants also allow you to chew and speak as if you did not have a dental implant at all.

Placement of the Implants

The implant is surgically placed in your jaw during an in-office procedure. A local anesthetic is used to minimize pain and ensure maximum comfort. However, some swelling and pain is to be expected afterwards, which the dentist can help you with by prescribing pain medication.

While your jaw heals, you’ll be asked to follow a diet consisting mainly only of soft, cold food and lukewarm soups. However, your dentist may also place a temporary crown, bridge or denture, so you don’t have to make as much of an adjustment when eating or speaking.

To make sure that your new teeth are attached as securely as possible, impressions of your mouth are taken and fixtures are connected to the implants during the healing process.

Once healed, which usually takes around two to six months, the artificial tooth or crown is placed on top of the implant.

Taking Care of Your Implant

Implants are durable enough to last a lifetime, but that will only happen if you take proper care of them. This includes visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings, as well as brushing for two minutes, two times a day and flossing daily.

Remember, getting a dental implant is no small procedure and is a big decision on your part.

Make sure that you choose a dentist and a periodontist or oral surgeon that has your best interests in mind to increase the procedure’s chances for success.

If you would like to see if you’d be a good candidate for dental implants, contact Dr. James Yankowskas at 978-649-7773 or visit www.tyngsborocosmeticdentist.com to learn more.

Dr. James Yankowskas proudly accepts patients from Lowell, Nashua, Dracut, Chelmsford, Dunstable and surrounding areas.