Investing in your oral health is one of the best decisions you can make. Not only will it improve your confidence, but it can also improve your overall health. There are numerous chronic diseases linked to poor oral health, including heart disease and diabetes. First, we will discuss the difference between preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.
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Preventative vs. Restorative vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
Sometimes it is hard to understand the difference between preventative, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Simply, preventative dentistry is used to protect your teeth from future damage. For example, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day is an example of a preventative treatment. You are probably most familiar with restorative dentistry. This includes crowns, fillings, and dentures. In restorative dentistry, Dr. Viet Tran works to repair weak or damaged teeth. Lastly, cosmetic dentistry refers to the appearance and look of your smile. At Smiles of Memorial we want to give you the confidence to embrace every moment, so we offer procedures like teeth whitening and veneers to enhance your smile. Many times, restorative and cosmetic dentistry are done together. For example, a dental implant is an example of both a restorative and cosmetic procedure. Below are a few examples of cosmetic procedures.
1. Veneers and Bonding
Have you ever wanted a bigger smile? Or perhaps you are interested in reshaping the height of your cheekbones. Well, veneers may be the cosmetic procedure for you. Veneers, also called composite bonding, are usually placed on four to six of your front teeth. A prosthetic covering is attached, or bonded, to the front of the tooth to make it appear larger and more symmetrical. Before requesting veneers, talk to Dr. Viet Tran and his Smiles of Memorial team to ensure your teeth are healthy enough for this cosmetic procedure. It is important that Dr. Viet Tran addresses all health concerns before cosmetic concerns.
2. Dental Implants
As mentioned above, dental implants can be considered as a restorative or a cosmetic procedure. Dr. Viet Tran and his team at Smiles of Memorial in Houston, Texas may suggest a dental implant if you have had a dental trauma, a deep cavity, or an infected tooth. First, Dr. Viet Tran will clear out the root and replace it with a metal post screwed into your jawbone. This is the restorative part of the procedure. Next, for the cosmetic procedure. Dr. Viet Tran and his Smiles of Memorial team will place a crown over the metal post to maintain the natural function and look of your smile.
3. Teeth Whitening
Most patients know that teeth whitening is an example of a cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening procedures at Smiles of Memorial in Houston, Texas come in two forms: in-office and take-home. The quickest and most effective treatment is in-office. Dr. Viet Tran and his team use Zoom! technology for in-office treatments. If you are looking for a less expensive option, try take-home whitening. Dr. Viet Tran and his Smiles of Memorial team will craft a dental tray custom to your unique smile. Next, at home, you will place a whitening gel in the tray. Whitening from Smiles of Memorial is more efficient and accurate than over-the-counter brands, so we always recommend professional whitening.
In most cases, improving the look of your smile is just as important as improving the function and health of your smile. For more information on cosmetic dentistry or to plan your next visit with Dr. Viet Tran at Smiles of Memorial in Houston, Texas, call (281)-493-0061, today!
