Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Dentistry

Aesthetic Dentistry

Supported by the latest technology, aesthetic dentistry is a discipline that requires the integrated, sequential, and harmonious collaboration of many specialties such as periodontology, prosthodontics, conservative treatments, oral surgery, and orthodontics.

Aesthetic Dental Applications at Our Center

• Closing gaps between teeth

• Repairing fractured or damaged teeth

• Treatment of small, conical, short, or rotated teeth

• Correction of minor dental crowding (if severe, orthodontic treatment is performed)

• Eliminating or masking discolorations on teeth

• Teeth whitening

• Treatment of dark discolorations on the gums

• Interventions for excessive gum display (“gummy smile”)

• Digital smile design

• Lip line contouring

• Composite or porcelain laminate veneers

• Conventional or zirconium porcelain crown-bridge prostheses (see Prosthodontics)

• Implant treatments (see Implantology)

Gum Aesthetic Applications

The appearance of the gums is an important element in oral and dental aesthetics, especially regarding the smile. Also known as pink aesthetics, gum treatments address excessive or asymmetrical gum levels and gum discoloration. Procedures include lengthening tooth crowns, correcting dark gum pigmentation, and other soft tissue adjustments. Thanks to technological advances, today’s surgical and clinical gum treatments are easier, less painful, and offer faster recovery compared to older methods.

Teeth Whitening

In oral aesthetics, having bright, white teeth is essential. Whitening removes yellow, brown, and orange stains from enamel and dentin. With modern medical and technological developments, whitening has become simpler and more efficient.

There are two whitening methods:

1. In-office whitening performed by a dentist.

2. At-home whitening, customized for the patient. For home whitening, the dentist takes an impression and prepares thin trays to fit over the teeth. A whitening gel is placed inside the trays, which are worn by the patient for about 6–8 hours daily. Treatment usually lasts 1–2 weeks.

The choice of method depends on the type and severity of stains, patient availability, and dentist’s recommendation. In some cases, both methods are combined. Whitening is suitable for patients aged 15 and older. Success and longevity depend on regular care and diet habits.

Aesthetic Applications with Orthodontics and Surgery

Correcting teeth that cause aesthetic discomfort is crucial both physiologically and psychologically. At our center, orthodontists and aesthetic specialists work together to plan and coordinate treatments. These may include aligning, lengthening, rotating, shifting, or surgically exposing teeth.

In some cases, surgical operations are required to correct irregular teeth or jaw relationships, or to manage soft/hard tissue deficiencies or excesses. Our aesthetic unit is actively involved in these treatments to ensure optimal results.

Porcelain Laminate Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made, nail-thin shells of tooth-colored material bonded to the front of the teeth. They have a translucent appearance, blending seamlessly with the natural tooth’s shape, size, color, and length for a natural look. They are ideal for discolored, worn, or misaligned teeth.

Key advantages:

• Minimal intervention on healthy tooth structure

• Excellent esthetics without extensive preparation

• Can be replaced later with conventional crowns if needed

Composite Laminate Veneers (Bonding)

Bonding is used for repairing small fractures and cracks in front teeth or for altering shape and color. First, the composite shade is matched with natural teeth. The tooth surface is lightly prepared and conditioned with a bonding gel. Composite is applied, sculpted, hardened with high-intensity light, and finally polished for a natural finish.

Inlay – Onlay Restorations

In classical caries treatment, cavities are filled with amalgam (metal) or composite materials. However, in aesthetic dentistry, both strength and appearance are important. Inlays and onlays are indirect ceramic restorations that combine durability with esthetics.

Procedure:

• After caries removal, an impression of the cavity is taken

• A ceramic inlay/onlay is fabricated in the laboratory

• The restoration is bonded to the tooth with biocompatible adhesive materials

Advantages:

• Perfect fit and seamless integration with tooth color

• Resistance to oral fluids and long-lasting durability

• Preferred especially for large defects instead of full crowns

If the tooth has major structural loss, onlays may be chosen over crowns. In such cases, root canal treatment and minor gum adjustments may be performed first. Onlays reduce the risk of fracture and often eliminate the need for a full crown, preserving more of the natural tooth.