17 Oct How Is Cosmetic Dentistry Different from Restorative Dentistry?
An oral surgeon is the dental specialist who provides advanced care for the teeth, gums, and jaw. However, you may never have considered these healthcare professionals as experts in cosmetic dentistry. In fact, oral surgeons have extensive knowledge of the face and can help you enhance the appearance of your mouth and surrounding features.
Here are considerations you need to know about cosmetic dentistry, including how it differs from restorative dentistry, your options, and the many benefits of cosmetic procedures.
Cosmetic Dentistry Vs. Restorative Dentistry
In cosmetic dentistry, your dental professional focuses on improving the appearance of your smile and other facial features. Cosmetic procedures often help a patient feel more comfortable and confident with their appearance.
Restorative dentistry, in contrast, focuses on the structure and function of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Restorative procedures are usually considered medically necessary. A missing tooth, for example, can cause complications with the structure and health of your jaw and surrounding teeth. A bridge or implant restores the function of the mouth.
Cosmetic procedures may not be medically necessary, but this doesn’t mean they aren’t important. Many patients feel that their quality of life improves when their teeth are whiter or more aligned or when their facial features look younger.
Cosmetic Treatment Options
There are several cosmetic dentistry option types available to our patients at Central Oklahoma Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates. Dr. Miller’s extensive experience in facial features and how they work has given him a unique understanding of the many ways to achieve a youthful facial appearance.
One of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments is teeth whitening. This simple in-office procedure uses 3D printed custom trays and a whitening gel that can effectively leave your teeth 8-10 shades whiter.
Dr. Miller offers other cosmetic treatments that can help improve the appearance of your face. These options include:
- BOTOX® Cosmetic for decreasing the appearance of crow’s feet and frown lines
- Juvederm for increasing plumpness in the cheeks and lips
- Kybella for reducing the fat cells present in a double chin
Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry
Over time, our faces can lose their youthful appearance. Elasticity fades as wrinkles increase, and the protective enamel on teeth can wear away, leading to more discoloration.
Cosmetic facial treatments help rejuvenate the appearance of your face and smile, improving your confidence and restoring youthful beauty.
Learn more about the smile and facial appearance cosmetic treatments available at COOMSA.