What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
At The Dental Sedation Center, we regularly perform cosmetic dentistry for Beverly Hills patients. Creating a pleasing result using this type of dentistry is much more than simply improving the function and appearance of the teeth.
If you were to think of the mouth as a theatre stage, the lips are the curtains for the stage and the teeth are the individual actors. For successful performance, everything has to be working together. The goal of this procedure is for all of the mouth, lips, and teeth to be working together for a beautiful presentation.
Am I a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, it may be time to consider cosmetic dentistry. The best candidates are patients who have cosmetic dental issues. If you have teeth that are stained, crowded, chipped, crooked, broken, uneven, or gapped, you are an ideal candidate.
Certain types of oral health issues can make a person unsuitable for these procedures. Gum disease is one example of this type of problem; other such problems include tooth decay issues like cavities and insufficient tooth enamel. Only after these issues have been resolved can these patients come in for cosmetic dentistry.
Additionally, various bad habits can make a person an unsuitable candidate for certain procedures. Bruxism (tooth grinding and clenching), chewing ice or other hard items, or biting one’s nails are examples of these types of habits.
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Cosmetic Dentistry Options
Some of the options involved in this procedure include porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns, porcelain bridges, dental implants, teeth whitening, replacing silver fillings with white fillings, and orthodontics. To choose the best combination of specialized techniques for you, skilled cosmetic dentist Dr. Patric Cohen will need to see you for a consultation in our Beverly office.
The Initial Consultation
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The initial consultation for cosmetic dental work usually takes about an hour. X-rays are taken of the teeth to check for any gum disease or tooth decay. The cosmetic dentist will then often take digital photographs to be used in planning out what will be done to the patient.
The patient’s wants and expectations are then discussed. Do they want a Julia Roberts smile, or Jessica Alba? How white would they like their teeth to be? Are they missing teeth that need to be replaced? All of these questions are important to come up with an ideal outcome.
Looking over our cosmetic dentistry before and after photos helps patients gain a better understanding of the type of results we can achieve. This is an essential part of the decision-making process.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help our patients make informed decisions about their oral health, here are some quick answers to the most common questions about cosmetic dentistry at The Dental Sedation Center.
What Issues Can Cosmetic Dentistry Address?
Cosmetic dentistry can address a range of concerns, such as stained or discolored teeth, misaligned teeth, gaps, chips, cracks, and even missing teeth. It's designed to enhance the aesthetics of one’s smile, so a comprehensive and personalized consultation is key to identifying the individual needs of patients.
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Improve the Appearance of Old Dental Work?
Yes, cosmetic dentistry can often improve the appearance of older dental work. Procedures like veneers or crowns can be used to replace or enhance existing dental work for a more attractive smile.
Can Cosmetic Dentistry Improve My Overall Oral Health?
While cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on appearance, some procedures, like dental implants or orthodontics, can have positive effects on overall oral health by improving functionality and alignment.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Permanent?
Cosmetic dentistry outcomes are not always permanent. Factors like maintenance, oral hygiene, and lifestyle choices can impact the longevity of cosmetic dental work. Dr. Patric Cohen at The Dental Sedation Center is committed to delivering top-tier dental care for lasting results and ensures that patients receive comprehensive guidance on oral health maintenance after cosmetic dentistry.
Are Cosmetic Dental Procedures Painful?
Most cosmetic dental procedures are not painful, thanks to the application of local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort. In cases where patients may experience anxiety, The Dental Sedation Center also offers sedation options to further alleviate any discomfort or unease during the procedure. Some individuals, however, may encounter mild discomfort or sensitivity during the recovery phase, which is usually easily manageable.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?
When performed by experienced professionals like Dr. Cohen, cosmetic dentistry is generally safe and reliable. Dr. Cohen is well-equipped and highly qualified to conduct cosmetic dental procedures while strictly adhering to necessary sterilization and safety protocols. It's essential to ensure that dentists meet these high standards for the patients’ peace of mind.
Are There Age Restrictions for Cosmetic Dental Procedures?
There are typically no age restrictions for most cosmetic procedures, but suitability varies by procedure and individual health. It is also important to note that cosmetic dentistry is not generally recommended for young children whose oral development is ongoing. Consult with Dr. Cohen to determine the best options for you!
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Dental Insurance?
In most cases, dental insurance primarily covers procedures that are medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic. Patients may need to pay out of pocket for cosmetic work, but some exceptions exist. You can contact our office for more information about our insurance providers and their covered procedures.
What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?
A dentist provides general oral health care, while a cosmetic dentist specializes in improving the aesthetics of the patient’s smile. Cosmetic dentists like Dr. Cohen often have additional training in procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and orthodontics.
What Are the Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry?
The benefits of cosmetic dentistry include improved self-esteem, enhanced appearance, increased confidence, and potential oral health improvements. It can have a beneficial effect on both our patients’ personal and professional lives.
Cosmetic Dentistry Preparation
Once the dentist and patient have agreed upon a cosmetic dental treatment plan, the preparation work begins. Models are made of the patient’s mouth and a dental laboratory will use these to make a wax mockup of what cosmetic dentistry will look like.
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This mockup is then shown to the patient by the dentist and adjustments are made. The dentist will often also have the patient bring in photos of smiles that the patient likes. After this, the real work begins.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment
The patient comes in for their cosmetic dentistry treatment appointment in Beverly Hills. Depending on what type of procedures are performed, this may take anywhere from 1-6 hours. The teeth are prepared by the dentist, and temporary cosmetic restorations are placed.
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It usually takes about 2 weeks for the laboratory to create the patient’s new cosmetic smile. Once it is done, the cosmetic dental restorations are tried in the mouth, and the patient is shown the new smile for final approval. Once approved, the dentist cements the cosmetic restorations, and the patient has a new smile.
The Follow-Up Appointment
Usually, a few weeks after the procedure is completed, the patient will come in for a follow-up visit. At this appointment, the dentist may make adjustments to cosmetic dentistry such as shortening a tooth or adjusting the bite. After that, a final polish is placed on the restorations.
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Find Out More
To learn more about cosmetic dentistry in Beverly Hills and what it can do for you, contact The Dental Sedation Center. Arrange a consultation with Dr. Patric Cohen to get started on your journey to a more beautiful smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry Cost
The overall cost of this type of dentistry varies depending on factors like the type of sedation used and the exact procedures that are being performed. The price of your cosmetic dentistry may be covered by your health insurance provider.
Schedule a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation
To learn more about the treatment of Cosmetic Dentistry in Beverly Hills, CA, contact us and schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Patric Cohen.
Related Procedures
Sedation Dentistry
The use of oral conscious sedation, also referred to as sedation dentistry, is a beneficial option for patients who are fearful or apprehensive about going to the dentist’s office.
Full Mouth Rehabilitation
A cosmetic full mouth rehabilitation program is a complex treatment that utilizes a variety of techniques and tools to address multiple concerns including restorative and aesthetic issues.
Smile Makeover
A smile makeover is a custom treatment program created just for you which helps address issues that affect the way your smile looks.
Porcelain Crowns
Damaged crowns can be corrected with the help of porcelain crowns in Beverly Hills. This procedure will improve your tooth’s appearance after a damaged crown. It will also help you eat more easily by repairing your bite.