 | Paul F. Mitsch, D.M.D. believes that this is such an exciting time to be a dentist. Innovations and refinements in technology and treatment options are introduced continually. To maintain a leading edge, he has added to his educational foundation with advanced training in the newest of the new techniques. Education: D.M.D. Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri. B.A., Biology, University of California at San Diego. Fellowships: Academy of General Dentistry, Academy of Dentistry International, and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Associate Fellowships: American College of Oral Implantology, American Society of Osseointegration. You can reach Dr. Paul Mitsch at (316) 775-2482 or stop by his office in Augusta at 401 State Street in the historical downtown district. |
Dental
2004-07-01 10:05:00
Cosmetic dentistry... is it good or bad?
ANSWER: Cosmetic dentistry has certainly changed our perception of teeth within the past few years! Most of us may recall a family member or someone who lost their teeth and generally all of us fear the removal of all of our teeth and being forced to wear a denture or false teeth. In today's world we see "makeovers" on television and vicariously participate as people transform themselves, changing their bodies, and especially their teeth. The changes that take place in the mouth usually include whiter, brighter teeth that are even with healthy gum tissue. These changes are made in virtually every case viewed. Thus, our expectations and especially the expectations of our youth is that their teeth may be changed. Our perceptions are not what they were ten or twenty years ago; we no longer fear the loss of teeth as much as we value the maintenance and the enhancement of teeth. Things have definitely changed! Cosmetic dentistry is one of the leading edges in changing the way we consider our dental future.Cosmetic dentistry is a revolution within the dental profession resulting from technologies and training which allows average individuals to benefit from procedures that were at one time complex and difficult. The expense of cosmetic dental procedures has also been developed to meet the demands of most individuals. So it would appear things have changed! Cosmetic dentistry is now available to most healthy people. The questions most people ask: How much? How much money? How many teeth? How much time will it take? Once the fear of dentistry is overcome and the patient can comfortably have dental work done, these questions turn into "when can we start?" This is where things may not have changed so much. Prior to beginning any significant change (cosmetic dentistry is a significant change for some patients), the patient needs to understand cosmetic dentistry is only effective when he or she is healthy. Therefore, all conditions of their dental health need to be addressed prior to beginning cosmetic procedures. Once the patient is infection-free, with no discomfort, and is functioning properly, the predictability of the cosmetic procedure will include a minimal risk. The gum tissue (known as the periodontal tissues) must be in tip-top shape; the bite (sometimes associated with TMJ) should be even and not broken down in the back of the mouth; and they should not have worn out or decayed teeth. These are the three big areas, which should be looked at before crowns, or laminates are contemplated. The patient's general health is also considered prior to the restoration. If the patient is in great shape, a photographic determination will then help the dentist and the patient decide on how many teeth will need to be treated to obtain a better smile. Usually, eight or ten teeth in the upper are treated and other teeth are planned or treated in the future. Postoperative care is important for the patient to understand as well. The teeth are now a significant investment and must be taken care of and examined more frequently. Cosmetic dentistry is a continuing field of study and even has an academy that you may log onto in order to learn more: http://www.aacd.com/. Membership and certification in cosmetic dentistry is an ongoing and important qualifier for dentists to participate in this important field; therefore, patients should ask their dentist about the training and organizations they belong to which qualify them to treat patients desiring cosmetic dentistry. As a dentist, my own treatment was interesting, very rewarding, and I would do this again in a heartbeat. My treatment not only helped keep my teeth more comfortable but also provided the best chance of having my teeth for at least as long as I have my tongue!
