Cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the functionality) of teeth, gums and/or bite.

It primarily focuses on improvement in dental aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance.

A beam of argon laser, which is intended to accelerate the process of bleaching, is then projected upon the teeth.

[11] An examples of a bonded restorations are inlays and onlays, which are used to repair decayed & cracked teeth.

They are an option for closing gaps, enhance the shape, or change the color of teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures.

To achieve a pleasing smile, dentists fabricate diagnostic mock-ups, which act as a tooth preparation guide before the fabrication of veneers,[17] it allows the dentist to visualize the changes needed to be done on the patient's teeth with respect to size, shape and proportion, its relation with gingival-contour, lip contour and smile line.

The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer or more symmetrical teeth.

[20] Bite reclamation is for patients who have had years of excessive wear to their teeth due to grinding or acid reflux can alter their vertical dimension.

In the past, dental fillings and other tooth restorations were made of gold, amalgam and other metals—some of which were veneered with porcelain.

[citation needed] Now, dental work can be made entirely of porcelain or composite materials that more closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth structure.

Cosmetic dentistry has evolved to cover many new procedures and new dental materials are constantly introduced.

Membership is open to individuals who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in an ADA-accredited advanced prosthodontics program.

The ACP is the only prosthodontic specialty association where membership is based solely on education credentials.

AACD members seek out continuing education through lectures, workshops, and publications in order to keep up-to-date with all of the advancements in cosmetic dental techniques and technology.

[24] Newell Sill Jenkins (1840–1919) was an American dentist who practiced most of his life in Dresden, Germany.