What Is Dental Aesthetics? What Are The Types Of Crowns?
Dental aesthetics is defined as procedures performed to achieve an aesthetic appearance in cases where the teeth are defective, curved, small, large, discolored or asymmetrical depending on the structure of the mouth. Teeth are a big part of human self-esteem, as they are a feature that is difficult to hide. The positive impact of symmetrical, white and straight teeth on psyche and self-confidence cannot be ignored when speaking, laughing, taking photos or filming.
For this reason, many people who are dissatisfied with the appearance or color of their teeth undergo aesthetic dentistry to have a beautiful smile, tooth sizes suitable for oral structure and whiteness suitable for skin color. Dental aesthetics is one of the most important aesthetic applications of recent times, used not only for a beautiful appearance or white teeth, but also for dental and oral health. Dental aesthetics has recently started to be referred to as “smile aesthetics”.
Types of “Smile Aesthetics”:
Dental aesthetics is a set of procedures performed to improve a person's tooth structure, tooth color and general oral aesthetics. Thanks to dental aesthetics, a more beautiful smile can be achieved, tooth deformities can be corrected and teeth can be made to look healthy and white. Here are the most common types and methods of dental aesthetics:
1. Porcelain Lamina (Leaf Porcelain)
Porcelain lamina is the process of bonding thin porcelain sheets to the front surface of the teeth. With this method, the color, shape and size of the teeth can be changed. Lamina porcelains have the closest appearance to natural teeth and are long-lasting.
2. Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)
Teeth whitening is the process of removing stains and yellowing that form on the surface of the teeth over time. There are two types of whitening methods:
It can be said that zirconium veneers are the evolution of metal-supported veneers that were widely used in dental aesthetics in the past. Zirconium veneers have become the most preferred dental aesthetics application in the world because they last longer than metal veneers and do not cause any problems such as opacity and inability to adapt to the gums.
Zirconium veneers are 100% gum-friendly, do not cause gum disease and are resistant to heat and cold. Even in people who consume a lot of tea, coffee or cigarettes, there is no bad breath, stains or discoloration.
How is Zirconium Veneer Applied?
The application process of zirconium veneers starts with grinding and cutting the teeth. It is important to use temporary veneers provided by the doctor so that the cut teeth are not damaged or affected by cold and heat. After the teeth are cut, the doctor takes impressions and a special plaster is made. The resulting impression is sent to the laboratory and prepared according to the person's mouth and tooth structure. The prepared zirconium teeth are tested and after the necessary corrections are made, they are sent back to the laboratory to be polished.
After this process is completed, ready-to-use zirconium veneers are placed on the teeth and fixed with a special adhesive. Zirconium veneers are the most popular type of dental aesthetics today due to their durability and longevity. With proper application and careful handling, you can ensure lifelong use. Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, no pain is felt during the procedure.
After the anesthesia wears off, the pain is quite normal, varies according to the patient's pain threshold and is easily controlled with the medications recommended by the doctor. The total processing time of zirconium veneers is between 7-10 days. At the end of the 10-day period, the patient will have smooth, white and durable teeth like a dream.
These types of crowns have a metal substructure and are placed on the tooth with a porcelain coating. Metal-supported porcelain crowns are durable but aesthetically a little behind compared to zirconium crowns.
5. Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial roots made of titanium that replace missing teeth. A natural tooth appearance is achieved with crowns placed on top. Implants are long-lasting and fulfill natural tooth functions.
6. Composite Fillings and Bonding
Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings used in the treatment of tooth decay. Bonding is applied to fill the gaps between teeth, repair broken teeth or change the shape of teeth.
7. Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments are methods used to ensure the correct alignment of the teeth and jaw. Various devices such as braces (braces), clear aligners (Invisalign) are used.
Dental aesthetics has become an increasingly demanded area in recent years. In 2024, there have been many innovations and developments in this field. Dental aesthetic prices may vary according to the preferred treatment method, the materials to be used and the needs of the person. In addition, the location and level of expertise of the clinic where the treatment will be performed can also affect the cost. Those who want to get clearer information about the prices are recommended to make a detailed evaluation by meeting with a specialist dentist. In this way, a personalized treatment plan can be created and the most appropriate costs can be determined.
Pain during most dental aesthetic procedures is minimal and can be controlled with local anesthesia. There may be a slight feeling of discomfort after the procedure, but this is usually short-lived.
The duration of a dental aesthetic treatment varies depending on the type of procedure performed; it can usually last from a few hours to a few days. Some procedures may require several sessions.
You should consult with your doctor to determine the most appropriate dental aesthetic treatment, which will vary depending on your oral health and aesthetic needs.
Most people can return to their daily activities immediately after dental aesthetic procedures; however, in some cases, the recovery period may take 1-3 days.
The treatments will be carried out at contracted healthcare institutions holding international health tourism authorization licenses.
