Technology has revolutionized what a cosmetic dentist can do. Just like the cell phone made communicating easier and a microwave made it possible to heat up meals quickly, modern dental inventions have made it possible to save teeth and transform smiles. Without innovation, patients would still be getting infected teeth pulled on a regular basis. We use new technology whenever possible and continue to learn about improved techniques so that our patients can benefit from an improved experience overall.
One of the major changes in modern dentistry occurred in the 1980s with the invention of resin cement. In the 70s, dentists started to realize the value of bonding procedures but were unable to do so on a regular basis. When resin cement was invented, it became possible to bond a crown to a natural tooth which made a crown more durable and reduced the risk of it falling off or slipping. Prior to that silver amalgam crowns were the go to solution for restoring and protecting teeth. With the wide use of resin cement, it became possible to use all-ceramic crowns and receive a similar level of durability.
As a cosmetic dentist, many of the procedures we use today evolved from that one simple invention. Dental crowns are used on a regular basis to restore and protect damaged or broken teeth, but they are also used to improve the appearance of teeth. For example, they are used to close gaps in between teeth, cover dark stains, make teeth appear even and more. Patients throughout the country use dental crowns to transform the natural appearance of their smile while keeping their teeth in place.
Dental veneers are a similar concept that was also made possible by the invention of resin cement. A veneer is a thin shell that is bonded to the surface of the tooth and can accomplish similar goals to a dental crown only it doesn’t surround the tooth and, therefore, needs less preparation. Hollywood celebrities are widely known for their use of veneers, and we wouldn’t have the term “Hollywood Smile” without it.
In the 1990s, this simple invention made it possible for people to start replacing missing teeth without wearing dentures. The dental bridge was invented in the 90s because resin cement made it possible for the bridge to remain in place. A bridge works by placing a crown on the two teeth that surround the missing one. These crowns need to be durable because they hold the bridge and replacement tooth in place.
Modern technology has continued to advance beyond dental bridges, crowns and veneers to where we are now offering dental implants to replace missing teeth. This is a permanent way of doing so where we create a new root system by implanting a metal post under the gum line. A crown is secured to the post for a natural and durable replacement tooth. All of this has been made possible by continued advancements in technology and, as a result, our patients continue to benefit. To learn about the latest techniques and innovations, visit our cosmetic dentist office.
