© Pavel Danilyuk
New materials make dental fillings invisible, for example.
November 15, 2023
PMC Redaktion
People with even, white teeth are perceived by others as more intelligent, attractive, and successful.
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The dream of the perfect smile is a reality today: Modern dentistry combines aesthetics and health at the highest level. Find out which revolutionary treatment methods are available and how beautiful teeth can not only enhance your appearance but also positively influence your overall sense of well-being.
Just a few years ago, the dream of a healthy set of teeth was unattainable for many people. Especially beyond the age of 50, most people had to live with fillings, crowns, and dentures that were visible, unnatural, and not very aesthetic. Over the last decade, this has changed significantly. Modern dentistry has made huge advances in both the prevention and the treatment of dental problems.
The desire for lifelong, brilliantly white teeth is no longer a utopia. New materials make dental fillings invisible, and thin ceramic shells (veneers) gently brighten discolored front teeth. Even teeth with significant damage can be preserved today. And if dental gaps do need to be closed, dentists and patients have a choice of different options for naturally looking prosthetics on implants.
According to a study by the German Society for Aesthetic Dentistry, over 85% of Germans want a more beautiful smile. Modern dentistry makes this wish more affordable and accessible than ever before.
This development has positive medical consequences: Healthy, well-functioning teeth are an important factor in physical well-being. An intact set of teeth not only supports digestion but also positively influences posture, jaw joints, and even the cardiovascular system.
The health benefits of beautiful, healthy teeth:
✓ Improved chewing function and digestion
✓ Prevention of jaw joint problems
✓ Reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases
✓ Better posture through optimal bite position
✓ Avoidance of consequential damage to the dental apparatus
✓ Longer lifespan of one's own teeth
The other plus is an aesthetic one: A fresh smile presenting two rows of even, white teeth is very attractive to others. Prof. Tim Newton, a health psychologist at King's College in London specializing in dental health, demonstrated in a study what he had long suspected: People with even, white teeth are perceived as more intelligent, attractive, and successful by others compared to those with crooked or discolored teeth.
More and more people therefore wish their dentist not only to treat their teeth functionally but also to ensure the aesthetic outcome is impressive at the end of the treatment.
Did you know? In studies on attractiveness research, a beautiful smile is rated on average as more important than figure or clothing. Up to 48% of people notice a smile as the first feature in a new acquaintance.
The desire for beautiful teeth is by no means an invention of modern times. As early as 2000 years ago, the Romans concealed gaps in their teeth with a type of prosthesis: The loose teeth or replacement teeth made of ivory were mounted with expensive gold threads between the healthy teeth. These early predecessors of today's bridge looked good but were not suitable for chewing.
Teeth bleaching also has a long tradition: In the Middle Ages, nobles exchanged recipes for tinctures that whitened teeth. However, these methods were often harmful to health and contained aggressive acids.
Historical context: While dental aesthetics were previously reserved mainly for the upper class and often associated with health risks, modern dentistry today enables safe and effective treatments for all social classes.
Professional bleaching brightens the natural tooth color by several shades. Modern methods are gentle on the enamel and provide long-lasting results.
Ideal for: Discoloration from coffee, tea, red wine, or natural aging
Thin ceramic veneers are applied to the tooth and enhance even severely discolored teeth. They eliminate chipped edges or unattractive gaps.
Ideal for: Front tooth corrections, gaps, permanent discolorations
New filling materials made of ceramic or composite make even damage to the front teeth invisible. They perfectly match the natural tooth color.
Ideal for: Cavities, small defects, repairs in the front tooth area
Implants offer naturally looking tooth replacements that are both aesthetically and functionally impressive. They are firmly anchored in the jawbone.
Ideal for: Single tooth replacement, bridges, fixed dentures
Modern aligner systems correct misalignments almost invisibly. The transparent trays are custom-fitted.
Ideal for: Misalignments in adults, discreet correction
With state-of-the-art 3D technology, the treatment outcome can be visualized before starting. Patients see their new smile on the screen.
Ideal for: Complex treatments, patient communication
Among celebrities, beautiful teeth have long been considered a symbol of youth, power, and sex appeal and are a "must-have." Actors and stars like George Clooney or Demi Moore, Miley Cyrus or Cristiano Ronaldo show off their perfect smiles in movies, TV, and the press.
They all have found a trusted dentist who beautifies and straightens their front teeth. There are many possibilities for this, as already described.
Even those who live away from the limelight and glamour increasingly desire a beautiful smile today. It's no wonder a popular saying goes: A smile is the shortest distance between two people. Many companies already send their executives with crooked bites to dental specialists.
Career advantage: Studies show that people with a well-groomed, attractive smile are more successful in job interviews and business negotiations. A confident demeanor is significantly supported by beautiful teeth.
Ideally, this is someone who considers not only the cosmetics but also the function of the teeth. Because it's a big misconception that beautiful teeth are automatically good teeth. It's precisely the combination of both that defines aesthetic dentistry.
Criteria for a good dentist in aesthetic dentistry:
✓ Additional qualifications in aesthetic dentistry
✓ Modern technical equipment (3D scanner, digital planning)
✓ Holistic treatment approach (aesthetics + function)
✓ Transparent advice and realistic expectations
✓ Reference cases and before-and-after images
✓ Collaboration with specialized dental technicians
✓ Individual treatment plans instead of "One-Size-Fits-All"
The costs of aesthetic dentistry
Many people shy away from cosmetic dental treatments because they fear high costs. In fact, prices vary significantly depending on the type of treatment:
Cost: 300-600 Euros
Durability: 1-3 years
Effort: 1-2 sessions
Cost: 500-1,500 euros per tooth
Durability: 10-20 years
Effort: 2-3 sessions
Cost: 1,500-3,500 euros per implant
Durability: 15-25 years
Effort: Several months
Note: The costs are guidelines and may vary depending on the region, practice, and individual effort. Many practices offer financing models.
Most modern procedures are minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia. Many patients report no to only mild discomfort during and after the treatment.
The durability varies depending on the treatment: bleaching lasts 1-3 years, veneers 10-20 years, implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Regular dental care and professional check-ups significantly extend the lifespan.
Purely aesthetic treatments are generally not covered by statutory health insurance. However, in case of medical necessity, a subsidy may be possible. Private insurances often have better benefits. An individual consultation is recommended.
In principle yes, however, the teeth and gums must be healthy. Cavities or periodontitis should be treated before aesthetic procedures. Your dentist will conduct a thorough preliminary examination.
Aesthetic dentistry is far more than superficial cosmetics. It combines modern medicine with the legitimate desire for an attractive appearance and demonstrably strengthens self-confidence and quality of life. The combination of function and aesthetics makes the difference between mere dental cosmetics and holistic dental health.
Thanks to continuous innovations in materials and techniques, treatments today are gentler, more effective, and more natural-looking than ever before. Whether bleaching, veneers, or implants – there are suitable solutions for every wish and every budget today.
It is important: Choose an experienced dentist who not only pays attention to the aesthetic result but also keeps an eye on the long-term health of your teeth. In the network of Premium Medical Circle, you will find renowned dentists right in your vicinity!
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