What is Aesthetic Dentistry and What Treatments Does It Include?

Aesthetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that aims to achieve not only a healthy but also an aesthetically pleasing dental and jaw structure. The procedures performed in this field are shaped and personalized according to the physical and social needs of the individual.

What is Aesthetic Dentistry?

Aesthetic dentistry enhances individuals' smiles in terms of:

• Shape,
• Color,
• Alignment,
• Size,
• Overall health, and
• Functionality.

These treatments aim to resolve various aesthetic issues such as worn teeth, gum recession, discolored or misshaped teeth, and unwanted gaps between teeth.

When Are Aesthetic Dentistry Treatments Performed?

Aesthetic dentistry can be applied in the following situations:

• Color changes or darkening of teeth due to various reasons
• Fractured front teeth due to accidents
• Cavities in front teeth
• Poorly appearing teeth due to gum recession
• Need for aesthetic shaping after gum treatments
• Tooth shaping that aligns with lip and facial aesthetics after front tooth loss

What Methods Are Used in Aesthetic Dentistry?

The methods used in aesthetic dentistry vary according to existing problems. Here are some commonly used methods in this field:

Porcelain Dental Crowns

• Metal-Backed Crowns: These are porcelain crowns with a metal infrastructure to increase durability. However, with advancing technology, more aesthetic alternatives are preferred over metal-containing materials.
• Laminated Porcelain: Thin porcelain layers applied with minimal abrasion without cutting the teeth. Also known as leaf porcelain, it is especially preferred for front teeth.
• Zirconium Porcelain: Durable and naturally appearing white-colored crowns that are aesthetically advantageous.
• E-Max and Full Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns reinforced with an infrastructure, they are among the most aesthetic types of crowns and are produced using computer-aided systems.

Adhesive (Bonding) Systems

• These are bonding procedures that allow changes in the shape, color, and size of the teeth. They provide practical and quick solutions.
• They fill gaps between teeth, repair broken teeth, reshape worn teeth, and change tooth color.

Pink Aesthetics

Also known as gum aesthetics. It is used to correct aesthetic problems arising from the gums.

Composite Filling

These are aesthetic fillings that have replaced the gray amalgam fillings used in the past, providing a natural appearance. With proper care, they can last between 5 to 10 years.

These methods are customized according to individuals' needs in aesthetic dentistry, creating personalized treatment plans. Aesthetic dentistry not only improves the appearance of teeth but also enhances individuals' self-confidence.