What Is: Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentists at Columbia work on improving the general appearance of the teeth and gums by performing a number of processes on them. Dental specializations that focus on aethetic and cosmetic improvement are Prosthodontics and Orthodontics. However, such denstists are usually called Prosthodontists and Orthodontists.
Processes that can be done to enhance the smile include whitening (also called "tooth bleaching"), shaping or smoothening out chips in the enamel, bonding to fill in gaps between teeth (which is sculpted into shape and then polished). Other techniques include applying veneers, which is porcelain laminates applied on the teeth, sculpting the gum line into a more pleasing appearance, and dental bridges (or "false teeth" as they are commonly known). Earlier, the fillings used for dentistry had gold and amalgam of metals, but now they're usually entirely made out of porcelain or other compostie materials. This helps in keeping the appearance of such fillings as similar to the natural teeth. They are also safer than amalgams, which have some amount of mercury. Cosmetic dentistry at Columbia is a rapidly evolving practice and is innovating quickly, leading to better and more lasting treatment.
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Society For Dental Aesthetics that function as organizations that help dental education, and work on improving the techniques and equipment used in the treatment. The former is an international organization comprising general dentists, specialists, and lab technicians. They work with an emphasis on cosmetic treatements. The latter seeks to popularize innovative techniques and continue research in the field of cosmetic dentistry.
