Cosmetic dentistry takes into account both the function of the teeth and the patient’s appearance.
Treatment aims to preserve or restore the teeth’s chewing function. Particular emphasis is placed on the aesthetics of the face, mouth, teeth, and gums.
This includes gum treatments, implants, crowns, bridges, veneers, tooth-colored fillings, and dentures. Orthodontics is also part of this field.
The goal of these treatments is to achieve aesthetic harmony among all the structures involved. The color and shape of dental restorations are adjusted so that they are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
The line between aesthetic dentistry and purely cosmetic procedures is blurred. The latter are not medically necessary and are therefore not covered by standard health insurance plans. One example is teeth whitening, a procedure in which the dentist gently lightens the teeth.
Teeth whitening encompasses all methods used to lighten the teeth @ pvl0707 /AdobeStock
Comprehensive Diagnosis as a Starting Point
Since the dentition is a highly complex system in which correcting a single tooth can have implications for the entire person (malocclusion, crooked teeth, etc.), a thorough assessment and diagnosis are essential.
In addition to assessing functional aspects (chewing, biting, speaking...), aesthetic dentistry also—and above all—takes into account aspects of the patient’s appearance. These may include, for example,
- misaligned teeth,
- discoloration,
- above-average wear of the tooth’s hard tissue, or
- recession of the gums (periodontitis)
.
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory oral disease that gradually destroys the structures supporting the teeth @ leriostereo /AdobeStock
Digital Simulation with Apps
All findings are recorded either conventionally or digitally, e.g., using special apps. The patient’s current situation is then modified using plaster or plastic models—or via an app—to match the vision of both the patient and the dentist. This before-and-after simulation is an important component of cosmetic dentistry and serves as a key decision-making tool for the patient.
If the patient is satisfied with the proposed changes, the dentist creates a precise treatment plan that will lead to the desired result. The range of treatments may include, among other things:
- teeth cleaning, teeth whitening,
- veneers,
- crowns,
- bridges,
- implants, or
- gum contouring.
