Cosmetic dentistry is often associated with enhancing the appearance of your smile, but did you know it can also improve oral functionality? From correcting misaligned teeth to restoring damaged enamel, cosmetic procedures like veneers, Invisalign, and dental bonding can address aesthetic and functional issues.
By aligning your bite, strengthening weakened teeth, or even replacing missing teeth, cosmetic dentistry helps improve your eating, speaking, and caring for your teeth. By addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns, these treatments can lead to better long-term oral health.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments That Enhance Functionality
While several dental treatments primarily serve as cosmetic enhancements, many have surprising positive health and function effects for patients. In fact, some patients receive dental and orthodontic treatments based on what they believe will look better in the short- and long-term.
The following are some common dental treatments that also enhance overall function and health in the oral cavity:
- Invisalign corrects bite alignment, improving chewing and reducing jaw strain.
- Veneers restore chipped or worn-down teeth, allowing for better functionality in speaking and eating.
- Dental Bonding fixes gaps, cracks, and damaged teeth that can cause discomfort and interfere with eating. Bonding can also reduce the risk of tooth decay and bacterial build-up, fill in small gaps between teeth, or lengthen and contour teeth.
- Inlays and Onlays reinforce weak teeth, protecting against further damage while improving dental function.
- Implants improve the look and feel of a smile by filling in a gap. They also increase the strength of the jawbone and reduce the risk of infection in the socket.
- Bridges are an excellent option if a patient has two healthy teeth next to a missing tooth. This treatment improves function while also making a smile feel complete.
- Composite Fillings are made of resin that is colored to match natural teeth. They replace traditional fillings by blocking bacteria build-up inside a tooth.
- Crowns repair a tooth’s original appearance if the natural crown has been lost, restoring the strength and function for eating, speaking, and other tasks.
Other treatments and procedures may also be an excellent choice to improve the cosmetic appearance and overall function of your teeth. We invite you to contact us at Eckland Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation, where you’re also welcome to ask questions of one of our compassionate and dedicated practitioners.
The Connection Between Oral Functionality and Aesthetics
There is a significant connection between oral functionality and aesthetics as they come together. For example, using resin, crowns, bridges, or implants may all improve the appearance of a tooth, but they simultaneously add strength to the tooth and the rest of the arch. Most cosmetic procedures stand to make a functional improvement in your life as well.
Additionally, restored teeth are easier to keep healthy. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, covering weak points in teeth reduces the likelihood of plaque or bacteria causing damage, and dental tools that fill out and strengthen the jaw or face will naturally lead to a more beautiful smile and facial appearance.
How to Choose the Right Cosmetic Treatment
To receive the best possible cosmetic treatment plan, we encourage you to contact Eckland Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, you and one of our talented and experienced providers will discuss your medical records and background. You and your provider will walk through each piece of information to determine what treatments would be a good fit for you and your personal goals.
To make the consultation run more smoothly, we encourage you to prepare in two ways. First, we encourage you to review your medical records, as we’ll discuss your medications, current and past ailments, family history, surgical past, allergies, and other pertinent information. We also urge you to connect with your referring dental provider, as they can forward information related to your dental records, including X-rays and scans.
During your consultation, you can feel confident and prepared to tackle your cosmetic concerns while giving your oral functionality the necessary attention. We’ll walk you through your options, the pros and cons, the commitment level required, and a rough timeline.
Eckland Family Dentistry Is Here to Provide Outstanding Cosmetic and Traditional Dental Care
Take the next step toward a healthier, more functional smile with Eckland Family Dentistry. From veneers to Invisalign, our expert team offers personalized solutions that address both cosmetic and functional concerns.
Schedule your consultation today, and let us guide you through the options that will give you a smile that looks great and works even better. Contact us now by calling (425) 481-0755 or completing our contact form to start your journey to improved dental functionality and confidence!