COSMETIC DENTISTRY CENTRAL COAST

WHAT IS COSMETIC DENTISTRY?

Aesthetic dentistry, often referred to as “cosmetic dentistry”, is the term used to describe treatments that change the way your teeth look. You may want to change the colour, the shape, the position of your teeth, or replace a missing tooth.  You may think of it as changing the way you look when you  smile or even when you are trying to keep a straight face.

In cosmetic dentistry, there is far more involved than simply changing the appearance of your teeth.  Embarking on a cosmetic dental journey would firstly start with your dental fitness.  It’s important to have a dentist conduct a full examination of your mouth and assess the condition of your gums, your teeth, and treat any oral health issues that may arise from that examination.  Your health comes first!  Improving and maintaining good oral health is key to a successful cosmetic dentistry result.

While a cosmetic procedure like teeth whitening is included in aesthetic dentistry, the field is mostly concerned with orthodontic treatment which involves teeth straightening (thus improving your bite and functionality of your teeth and jaw), and restorative dentistry, which involves the insertion of crowns, veneers and dental implants. 

Here at New Leaf Dentists, we believe in improving your overall oral health while also achieving the smile that you’ve always dreamed of.  Our dentists will spend time with you to talk about where you are right now, any previous treatments you’ve had and where you got to, your range of options, the pros and cons, an “expectation vs reality” discussion, and work out a plan that suits your time, your budget, your lifestyle, and your commitment to partner with us to ensure that your smile design will have long term results.

Teeth Whitening

As the name suggests, this treatment is all about lightening stained or discoloured teeth.

While you can buy over-the-counter, use-at-home toothpaste and strips, your dentist is best qualified to determine if you need teeth whitening. They can diagnose the reason for the discolouration and its type, and can then advise the most suitable treatment for you.

You may be tempted to go to a shopping centre booth or a beautician to get your teeth whitened, but neither are staffed by suitably qualified personnel. Incorrect use of bleaching agents may cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. DIY bleaching comes with all sorts of risks, and anecdotal treatments such as rubbing strawberries, lemons, or even bicarbonate of soda on your teeth, can do a lot of damage to your teeth and gums for no real whitening gain.

Keep in mind is that crowns, veneers and fillings don’t change colour when you have your teeth whitened.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-coloured porcelain or glass/plastic layers fixed onto the front of your teeth that can be a suitable option if you have teeth with gaps, that are stained, discoloured, broken or chipped, crowded-in or crooked, oddly-shaped or badly-aligned.

Crowns

If your broken or decayed tooth needs to be rebuilt, it’s possible your dentist will use a crown to do the job. Crowns are generally made from materials such as porcelain, and porcelain/metal combinations. Not only do they make your teeth look more attractive, but they also give them added strength, durability and stability.

Teeth Straightening

Using corrective items like braces and plates, your dentist or orthodontist (specialist) will line up your teeth within your jaw so you not only look better but may have more efficient use of the affected teeth. Once considered unsightly, braces, a key part of teeth straightening, are now much less noticeable than they were, in some cases being all but invisible.

Dental implants

If you have missing teeth, your dentist may suggest the use of dental implants to replace them. Not only may your smile improve, but you may also enjoy a better quality of life. Your dentist is best placed to advise on the most suitable option for replacing your teeth and any decision on changing the look and function of your teeth should always be in conjunction with your dentist.

Personalised Cosmetic Dentistry Plans: Why Custom Treatment is Key to Achieving Your Ideal Smile

Your smile is one of the first things people notice, but did you know that your oral health is intricately connected to your overall well-being? Beyond just cosmetic reasons, maintaining good dental health plays a critical role in your physical and mental health. We understand the importance of a holistic approach to oral care. As a trusted cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast, our team is dedicated not only to enhancing your smile but also to ensuring that your teeth, gums and mouth contribute to your overall health.

Oral health is more than just about preventing cavities or gum disease. Research has shown that poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory issues. The bacteria from untreated oral infections can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and potentially affecting other organs. Regular visits to a cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast for check-ups, cleanings and treatments like cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast can help prevent such complications, keeping your smile and body healthier.

Another significant link between oral health and overall well-being is the effect that dental issues can have on your mental health. Dental problems, such as missing teeth, misalignment or stains, can lower self-esteem and cause anxiety. Fortunately, with the help of cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast, treatments like teeth straightening, teeth whitening and dental veneers can help restore not only your smile but also your confidence. A brighter, straighter smile can improve your emotional well-being, leading to better social interactions and a positive outlook. Here are some reasons why maintaining oral health is essential for your overall well-being.

• Preventing systemic diseases: Oral infections can lead to or worsen conditions like heart disease, diabetes and even certain types of cancer.

• Boosting self-confidence: Cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening or Invisalign, can significantly enhance your smile, which has a direct impact on your mental and emotional health.

• Improving digestion and nutrition: Healthy teeth and gums are crucial for proper chewing and digestion, helping your body absorb nutrients effectively.

• Promoting better sleep: Issues like bruxism (teeth grinding) or sleep apnea, often linked to oral health, can negatively impact sleep quality, which in turn affects overall health.

We go beyond just improving the aesthetics of your smile. We believe in the importance of comprehensive dental care that promotes long-term health. Whether it’s through preventive care or advanced treatments for cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast, our goal is to support your overall well-being with personalised dental solutions.

Cosmetic Dentistry for All Ages: Why It’s Never Too Early or Late for a Smile Makeover

A beautiful, confident smile is something everyone deserves, no matter their age. Whether you're considering your first teeth whitening treatment as a teenager or looking into dental implants as an older adult, cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast offers a wide range of solutions tailored to your individual needs. We believe that it’s never too early or too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

For younger patients, cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast can address concerns like teeth misalignment or discolouration, which can be a source of embarrassment or low self-esteem. Treatments such as Invisalign for teeth straightening offer a subtle and comfortable alternative to traditional braces, making it easier for teens to improve their smile without feeling self-conscious. Additionally, teeth whitening treatments can restore brightness to a smile that may have been affected by diet or lifestyle, ensuring they feel confident in their appearance at school and beyond.

For adults, cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast is often about enhancing or restoring a smile that may have been affected by wear and tear, aging or lifestyle choices. Whether it’s repairing a chipped tooth, correcting alignment issues or addressing deep stains, treatments like dental veneers or Invisalign offer effective solutions for a radiant smile. As a cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast, we are proud to offer digital dentistry technology, which allows for highly precise and personalised treatment planning, ensuring that your smile makeover is tailored perfectly to your needs.

As we age, dental health can become more complicated, but it's never too late to invest in your smile. Cosmetic dentistry on the Central Coast provides treatments like crowns, veneers and dental implants, all of which help restore the function and beauty of your smile. These procedures can also improve oral health by addressing missing teeth, which can affect eating and speech. With advancements in cosmetic treatments, it’s easier than ever for older adults to enjoy a youthful, functional smile. Here are some reasons why cosmetic dentistry is ideal for patients of all ages.

• Teens and young adults: Straighten teeth with Invisalign or brighten smiles with professional teeth whitening.

• Adults: Correct imperfections like chips, cracks and misalignment with options like veneers and Invisalign.

• Older adults: Restore missing or damaged teeth with dental implants, crowns or bridges.

We understand that a healthy, beautiful smile enhances your overall well-being. No matter your age, a cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast can help you achieve a smile you’ll love, with treatments that fit your lifestyle and personal goals.

Understanding the Longevity of Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments: What to Expect Over Time

When investing in cosmetic dentistry, one of the most common questions patients ask is, "How long will the results last?" Whether it’s a teeth whitening procedure, Invisalign treatment for straightening or dental veneers for aesthetic enhancement, understanding the longevity of these treatments helps you make informed decisions about your dental care. We’re committed to providing clear expectations and high-quality, lasting solutions through cosmetic dentistry.

Each type of cosmetic treatment has different longevity and factors such as lifestyle, oral hygiene and the treatment type itself all play a role in how long the results will last. For example, professional teeth whitening can provide a brighter smile for anywhere between six months to two years, depending on your habits. For those who drink coffee, tea or wine or who smoke, the results may not last as long. Regular touch-ups can help maintain a brilliant, white smile for years to come.

Invisalign treatment is an excellent long-term solution for teeth straightening. Once your Invisalign aligners have done their job and your teeth are properly aligned, the results are typically permanent, provided you wear retainers as instructed by your cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast. This post-treatment phase is essential to prevent teeth from shifting back over time. As with all orthodontic treatments, maintaining the results relies on your commitment to post-treatment care.

Dental veneers, another popular option in cosmetic dentistry, offer a durable solution for correcting chipped, discoloured or misaligned teeth. Veneers are typically made from high-quality porcelain, which can last between 10 and 20 years with proper care. These long-lasting results are a significant reason why veneers are a preferred choice for those seeking permanent smile transformations. However, even veneers may require occasional adjustments or replacements depending on how well they are maintained.

For treatments like digital dentistry procedures and fillings, longevity often depends on the material used and the health of the patient’s teeth. Digital dentistry methods, such as CAD/CAM technology for crowns and fillings, provide precision and strength, ensuring a longer lifespan for restorations. Here’s an overview of how long common cosmetic dentistry treatments can last based on our experience.

• Teeth whitening: 6 months to 2 years, depending on lifestyle choices.

• Invisalign: Permanent results with proper post-treatment retainer use.

• Dental veneers: 10 to 20 years with proper care.

• Crowns and fillings: 10 to 15 years, with regular check-ups and good oral hygiene.

We strive to provide treatments that not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also deliver lasting results. A cosmetic dentist on the Central Coast will guide you through each treatment’s care requirements, ensuring your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.

For related information on this topic, visit Teeth Straightening.

Please note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

FACT SHEET COPYRIGHT: AUSTRALIAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION