FAQ's from a Cosmetic Dentist

As a cosmetic dentist, we regularly answer questions about our practice and our approach to dental care. Many patients want to know what the difference is between a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist. To begin with, there is not much of a difference when it comes to completing dental school. All dentists start with the same basic education in order to receive their degree in dentistry.

Afterward, certain dentists go on to receive additional education and training or focus their practice on a specific area of dentistry. This is where you will begin to see the differences. As a cosmetic dentist, we believe that there does not need to be a distinction between procedures that are beneficial for your health and ones that also improve the appearance of your smile.

We use different materials and provide alternative procedures from other general dentists to provide both an enhanced appearance and a healthy smile. In addition to being a cosmetic dentist, we are unique in that we focus on more complex procedures. With that in mind here are some facts that you should know.

Cosmetic Dentistry Information

Does a cosmetic dentist have a different way of replacing teeth?

Tooth loss is an incredibly common problem with most adults facing it at some point during their lifetime. Our goal is to replace the patient's teeth in a way that feels, looks and behaves entirely natural. Our treatments can be an effective solution for one's oral health, appearance and well-being. Thus, we offer dental implants. Dental implants are the only surgically-placed solution to tooth loss. In this procedure, we implant a titanium post under the gums and secure it to the jawbone.

Titanium is unique in that the body treats it like organic matter. As a result, the titanium post and jaw will fuse together. This process takes a few months, but it has amazing health benefits because the implant will begin to provide the jaw with the stimulation it needs to prevent resorption.

Simultaneously, the implant will be as secure as a natural tooth. The end result is a tooth that looks and behaves so naturally that even you will have a difficult time telling it apart from your natural teeth. Since we specialize in oral surgery in our office, we are confident in our ability to provide you with superior results.

Is there a better way to treat gum disease?

Yes, as a cosmetic dentist, we focus on using the latest technology to treat gum disease. We believe that we can provide patients with the same high-quality care in a less invasive manner. This is better for the patient's health and the appearance of the gums. As a result, we use laser treatments to both clean the gums and to restore them once they have started to recede. Laser treatments mean no sutures.

How can a damaged tooth be saved?

While we can certainly help with extractions, we believe in the importance of maintaining natural teeth whenever possible. As such, we recommend restoring damaged teeth whenever possible. We can restore teeth using dental bonding, dental veneers, or dental crowns – all of which can look entirely natural.

To learn more about cosmetic dentistry, call Rachel Cole DDS PC at (503) 248-1114 and schedule a consultation.