If you’re looking for a way to get a beautiful smile, but don’t want to undergo a painful, invasive, and expensive operation, then you might be interested in getting a cosmetic dental surgery.
More and more people are choosing to undergo cosmetic dental surgeries, which is why dentists are constantly looking for ways to make the procedure even better.
However, it’s important to understand that not all methods are created equal, and some are riskier than others.
In this post, we will discuss the procedure, possible risks and complications, and how to care for your mouth and teeth after the operations.
What is Comestic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the practice of improving the appearance of a patient’s teeth, gums, and facial features through a variety of methods. These procedures may include bleaching, veneers, crowns, and many others.
While most dental procedures are performed with the aim of improving the overall appearance of the patient, some methods are designed to enhance the health of the teeth or the appearance of the smile.
Recovery process and the time required for the healing of your mouth after surgery varies for everyone.
What are Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?
The procedures that will be mentioned are done to improve the appearance as well as for restoration of one’s teeth. Some of these are:
- Teeth Whitening
Tooth whitening involves bleaching the teeth. This will take about 15 minutes and the results are long lasting. Whitening is frequently combined with veneer, shaping, and dental bonding.
The most common method used is called hydrogen peroxide. It is also known as bleaching gel. This is a chemical that is applied to the teeth and is then rinsed off. - Dental Veneers
Veneers are made of porcelain and are used to cover up minor flaws in teeth. They can be used to make tooth look whiter and to fix minor imperfections such as chips, cracks, or misaligned teeth. - Dental Crowns
A crown is a restoration of a tooth that has been damaged or lost. It is placed over the natural tooth to restore its strength, protect it from decay, and enhance its appearance.
A dental crown is made of porcelain and cement and is attached to the tooth by an adhesive. - Orthodontics or braces
Orthodontics is the method of straightening your teeth by moving them into their proper position. It is most commonly used in the treatment of people with a bite problem and it also boosts the health and appearance of anyone’s smile. Braces is the device used here to correct misaligned teeth or those that are crowded together - Enamel Shaping
Enamel shaping is a method of reshaping teeth to correct their shape. This is done by removing a small amount of enamel from the front of the tooth and then filing and polishing the surface to make it smooth.
You can see immediate results after treatment. Enamel shaping is frequently combined with whitening, veneers, or dental bonding. - Dental Implants
Dental implants are an artificial replacement for tooth loss. Implants are made from titanium, a metal which has an excellent biocompatibility and high strength. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, and are used to replace missing teeth.
Dental implants will take about two hours to finish. The crown looks and feels like a natural tooth, so you won’t even notice the implants. - Dentures
Dentures are also a replacement to missing teeth. Dentures are a great solution for those patients with missing teeth. They are very comfortable and will help you maintain your appearance and your smile.
There are two types of denture, complete denture and partial denture. They are made from plastic, metal, or porcelain and are attached to the gums with either cement or screws.
Possible Risks and Complications
There are some risks and complications that can arise after dental operation.
These include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Swelling
- Pain
- Tooth loss
- Inability to eat or drink
- Inability to smile
In case of any serious complication, you should contact your doctor or surgeon immediately for treatment.
How to Care for Your Mouth and Teeth After the Surgery
Recovery from dental work varies, and you need to understand the recovery process and the time required for the healing of your mouth.
Here are some steps on how to take care of your teeth after surgery:
1. Take it easy
When you have an operation, you may be told to take it easy for a few days or weeks. Don’t be tempted to go back to work or do anything that might strain your body or cause pain.
2. Eat soft foods
Avoid hard foods such as ice cream, popcorn, and other crunchy items. They can cause damage to your gums. Pudding and ice cream are best to eat during recovery. You can also eat mashed potatoes and other soft meals.
3. Drink plenty of liquids
Try to drink at least eight glasses of water every day.
4. Be patient
It may take a while for your mouth to heal. You will be given instructions on how to care for them. Your dentist or doctor may also have additional instructions for you.
Important Post-Surgery Instructions
The most important instructions for patients after they have had their operation are the following:
- Don’t use alcohol or drugs
- Have someone check on you every 2 hours
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid activities that can strain your muscles
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling
- Take your prescribed oral rinse medication as directed
Final Thoughts
At iSmile Dental, we are dedicated to providing top-notch dental care for our patients.
We want you to feel confident and informed about your treatment options, so we’ve put together a list of what to expect when recovering from a cosmetic dental surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to give us a call – we would be happy to help!
