Cosmetic Dentistry In Phoenix, AZ

What Is The Difference Between Cosmetic Dentistry And General Dentistry?

When most of us think of the dentist, we think of having a filling placed or maybe replacing a missing tooth. If we’ve been lax with our home hygiene you consider procedures such as root scaling and planing. These are all functional concerns with your oral health, and this is what constitutes “general dentistry.” Dr. Pappas provides the full range of these services.

But Dr. Pappas also provides the breadth of treatments and procedures that seek to improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth — cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry is a sideline or specialty within general dentistry that focuses on the aesthetic aspects of the patient’s smile, rather than the functional aspects. Cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry can have the same goal, for instance when a dental implant is used to replace a damaged tooth. But usually, cosmetic dentistry has the goal of giving you a dazzling smile without addressing issues such as gum disease, decay, or other functional problems. Dr. Pappas uses cosmetic dentistry to improve patients’ tooth shape, position, whiteness, alignment, and overall appearance.

There Are Two Types Of Cosmetic Patients

young woman sitting in dental chair smiling with dental specialist nearby

– Some patients come to us specifically for smile enhancement.

These patients want their smile to look better and they’re ready to take the next steps to make that happen. Sometimes it’s as simple as teeth whitening while others may be looking for an entire smile makeover.

– Some patients have just accepted the way their teeth look and aren’t aware there are options for them.

For these patients, hope may have been lost a long time ago. When they come in to see us for a regular appointment and mention their feelings, it brings Dr. Pappas immense joy to tell them that he can help them have the smile they never thought was possible.

What Are The Benefits Of Cosmetic Dentistry?

What is the benefit of having a dazzling smile, not just a healthy one? For instance, porcelain veneers don’t correct those deep stains on your teeth that occurred when you were given tetracycline in your youth. But they sure do make your smile bright white and perfect. If you have a somewhat lower gum line, a “gummy smile,” it’s not necessarily interfering with your oral health, but you find yourself subconsciously not fully smiling to hide your gums. When Dr. Pappas contours your gums with his diode laser (which is a virtually painless procedure, by the way), now your teeth appear longer and your smile is more in balance. No need to hide anything anymore!

Those are the benefits of our cosmetic dentistry procedures for patients from all across the Phoenix area.

Are There Risks Involved With Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments?

These procedures have very low, if any risk. Porcelain veneers and composite bonding simply overlay the front side of the teeth involved. Whitening has proven completely safe over decades of procedures. Laser gum contouring is very efficient, vastly reducing pain and the possibility of infection over previous methods. All in all, there is minimal to no risk with these procedures.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Painful?

istock 1125916927 300x125 1

These are not painful procedures. There is some recovery involved if getting a dental implant is a part of your treatment, but it is not excessive and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. We use local anesthesia where necessary to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedures, and none involve a painful recovery.

What Can I Expect During My Consultation With Dr. Pappas?

Dr. Pappas loves interacting with his patients; it’s much of the reason he decided to go into dentistry. He views every consultation as a complete give-and-take process between the two of you. What are your goals? What do you love and hate about your smile? He’ll then discuss options for improving those issues. This is the time to ask every question you have.Dr. Pappas will also perform a brief examination of your teeth to be sure there don’t appear to be any issues, such as decay, that would need to be addressed before any cosmetic treatments could be done.

Depending upon what treatments the two of you have discussed, Dr. Pappas will be able to give you an estimate of what your costs will be.

When you leave our beautiful 40th Street offices, we want you to be excited about the beautiful improvements we’re going to make in your smile.

Best Cosmetic Dentistry Options

We all struggle with stains and discoloration. You don’t have to stop drinking wine and coffee just to have white teeth.

Some of our cosmetic options include:

Implants

The best solution for a missing tooth is with a permanent dental implant. It replaces the tooth from the root up to keep the jaw strong.

Invisalign

For patients who are unhappy with crooked teeth but don’t want the hassle or look of traditional braces, Invisalign is the perfect answer.

Whitening

We all struggle with stains and discoloration. You don’t have to stop drinking wine and coffee just to have white teeth.

Veneers

Now everyone can have a Hollywood smile worthy of the big screen. Porcelain veneers can help correct almost any cosmetic concern you may have.

Crowns

For those with chipped or cracked teeth, Dr. Pappas offers dental crowns in just one visit. Thanks to his investment in technology, the time it takes to get a natural looking tooth is cut in half.

Bridges

If you’re missing or more teeth, a bridge could help you chew comfortably again. Now you can say goodbye to that empty space in your mouth.

Full Smile Makeovers

Are your teeth holding you back from feeling confident and beautiful? Dr. Pappas loves helping change lives with custom designed smile makeovers.

Gum Recontouring

If you feel like your smile is “gummy” you may be surprised to find out there’s a treatment for that. With laser gum treatment a balanced smile has never been easier.

Dental Bonding

A chipped tooth doesn’t have to be your worst nightmare thanks to dental bonding. It can even help close the gap between teeth for those looking for a quick alternative to orthodontics.

Read what our patients are saying!

Always a positive experience. "I so appreciate the value that the team places on client satisfaction, professionalism and creating a friendly environment. Everyone on the team is genuinely nice, knows your name, and takes the time to explain what is happening – at every step from entering the lobby through settling up and setting the next appointment. Additionally, they are continuously improving their tools, techniques and processes. It makes me look forward to my appointments.

Click here to read more reviews.

Schedule A Consultation With A Cosmetic Dentist in Phoenix, AZ

If you’ve been thinking about cosmetic dentistry but have been unsure exactly how it could help you achieve your goals, contact us today at 602.957.9643 so you can get the answers you need and be on your way to the smile of your dreams! Our practice serves Phoenix, AZ and the surrounding areas.

ADA logo 4@2x

Let’s Schedule Your Visit

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Monday-Thursday - 8:00am - 5:00pm

Accessibility Toolbar

Scroll to Top