Cosmetic Dentistry Common Dental Flaws
Cavities and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay or dental cavity is one of the most common dental problems. Cavities are caused by plaque breaking down the teeth, causing holes that initially cause toothache but can cause much worse problems long term such as tooth loss and infection. Commonly metal fillings are used to replace the lost tissue but nowadays many people opt for safer, longer lasting and more aesthetically pleasing tooth coloured filling. If your tooth decay is more sever you may need an inlay or onlay, forms of cosmetic restorations that are custom-made to fit your teeth, or a crown, otherwise known as a cap, as they fit over the top of the tooth like a hat. If you loose any teeth due to tooth decay then you may need dental implants to replace the tooth.
Chips
Chipped or jagged teeth can be irritating and make an otherwise attractive smile look out of balance. If you have a chip, bonding can help. Bonding involves using a tooth-coloured material to camouflage minor cosmetic problems and is a fairly quick and easy dental procedure.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth
If you have cracked or fractured your tooth through an accident or because the tooth is decayed then there are a number of options. For minor cracks and fractures an inlay, onlay or filling may be enough but for more severe cracks you may require a dental crown, which can strengthen and support the damaged tooth.
Crooked Teeth
If your teeth are crooked it can leave you feeling very self-conscious about your smile. While a lot of people have braces during their teenage years to straighten their teeth, it is becoming increasingly common for adults to have orthadontic work to improve the aesthetics of their smile. Crooked teeth usually occur in childhood when the adult teeth start to come through however they can be caused later in life by tooth loss. Crooked teeth can be much more than merely an aesthetic problem, they can cause jaw and muscle strain, tooth pain and sensitivity and can put you at risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Braces are the most common way to address crooked teeth and new systems such as Invisalign®, which are virtually undetectable, are becoming increasingly popular. Veneers can also be used to cover crooked teeth, giving a perfectly straight smile.
Discoloured or Stained Teeth
Drinking coffee, tea and red wine and smoking cigarettes as well as the natural ageing process can cause your teeth to become discoloured and yellow. Stained teeth can add years to your appearance but can be improved with teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be performed in a dental clinic with the use of a laser or light or at home with the use of professionally made trays and whitening gel. Both treatments offer great results and can instantly rejuvenate your smile.
Gum Disease
Gum disease or periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection around the root of the teeth. It can cause bone reduction in the mouth and tooth loss is it is not treated. Symptoms of gum disease include pain, bleeding gums when you brush or floss, increased space between the teeth, swollen or tender gums, receding gums, bad breath and mouth sores. Gingivitis is the most common and easily treated form of gum disease. It causes swelling, bleeding, pain, and sensitivity in the mouth and bad breath. It can also cause your teeth to become loose and lead to receding gums. Left untreated it can cause to serious oral health problems. Gingivitis bacteria that feed on leftover sugars and other carbohydrates in the mouth. This can be prevented by following a proper dental hygiene routine. The best way to treat the condition is to visit a dental hygienist and then maintain a daily oral hygiene routine including regular brushing and flossing and using anti-bacterial mouthwash. More serious cases of gum disease can lead to the need for surgery and cause bone degredation, tooth loss and tissue necrosis.
Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can have a dramatic effect on the way you look, adding years to your appearance. Our teeth are one of the supporting structures of our faces so multiple missing teeth can make you look like you need a face-lift. Tooth loss can be caused by injury, gum disease, tooth decay and smoking among other things. The best way to replace missing teeth is by having dental implants or implant-supported dental bridges. These are a more natural looking and longer lasting alternative to dentures.
Sensitive Teeth
Tooth sensitivity is a relatively common problem but comes in varying degrees of severity. If you have sensitive teeth them you may feel sharp shooting pains in your teeth when you drink or eat very hot or cold substances. Tooth sensitivity is most commonly caused by receding gums, which leave the root or the tooth and nerves exposed. This can be caused by brushing your teeth too hard, gum disease, smoking, teeth whitening products, diet, grinding your teeth and even some over the counter mouthwashes. Maintaining a thorough oral health regime will help reduce sensitivity. Your dentist will be able to recommend a toothpaste that can help.
