Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist
Cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles has come a long way. Generally, an emphasis in this field is placed on the overall appearance of teeth and gums in relation to the face. Today in 2012 there are many advances in cosmetic dentistry such as dental implants, which replace the need for the dentist to touch any teeth nearby missing teeth. This ultimately conserves more natural tooth structure, which is very important, especially in the field of restorative denstistry. Veneers made out of porcelain are esthetic but should only be used for anterior (front) teeth because porcelain wears out enamel. Therefore, posterior (back teeth) porcelain restorations are not advised unless the patient's esthetic concerns outweigh the wear effects of the restoration. Otherwise, veneers are great for fixing chipped teeth and minor esthetic concerns. Dental cavities are filled with either composite (tooth color material) or amalgam (silver material). It is rare today for a cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles to fill a cavity with amalgam. The use of dental Implants in Los Angeles and surrounding cities have increased due to their effectiveness. Dental implants essentially act as natural teeth due to their osseointegration with bone. This helps retain sound tooth structure that would have otherwise been removed in order to retain a fixed prosthesis such as a bridge. Dental bridges are still used however when implants cannot be placed due to low bone levels, systemic disease, or other conditions, and when the cost of dental implants exceeds what the patient can afford. In these patients, a removable prosthesis such as a denture may also be suggested.
-Justin Ghiam, current student at the Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC.
