It's easy to take a smile and make it into a cookie-cutter ideal. We're talking perfectly straight, bright white, rectangular teeth, aligned in the standard Hollywood smile fashion. These teeth can be achieved without personal tweaking and adjustments.

The problem with that type of smile is that it disregards what's unique about you. Your smile is special. While it may not be exactly what you want it to be, it still speaks to your individual appearance, and helps make you you. We don't want to change that with your dental treatment.

Thus enters the concept of aesthetic dentistry. This form of cosmetic treatment alters teeth while prioritizing a personal, natural look. The end result will be in line with your smile goals, but it won't be immediately apparent as dental work. Curious as to how this could be possible? Allow us to explain.

Aesthetic Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry: Is There a Difference?

While you've definitely heard of cosmetic dentistry, you may not have heard "aesthetic dentistry" used as a term. It's rarely referred to specifically, but is always a possibility. Cosmetic dental treatment emphasizes the look we described in the introduction. That bright, white, perfectly symmetrical smile may be pretty, but it doesn't always look like it belongs to you. Aesthetic treatment takes a gentler approach, making smaller dental tweaks and keeping the smile's unique appearance intact. Moreover, aesthetic treatment never compromises the function of the teeth in question. It will actually strive to strengthen them, and help them last for many years to come.

Cosmetic dentistry is commonly used as a blanket term, to signify both "cosmetic" and "aesthetic" work (we use it, too). The way you can be sure your work is at that upper level is to find a talented aesthetic dentist. This is someone with the artistic skills, experienced hands, and superb track record that can guarantee subtle, functional, and natural-looking work.

Peruse our Smile Gallery for some examples of what you can expect from Dr. Kim Okamura. We've brought out the natural beauty in countless smiles, and seen many happy patients re-enter the world with a confident grin in place.

A Smile Makeover with a Natural Touch

Aesthetic dentistry is all about patient-dentist communication. By understanding exactly how you would like to change your smile, Dr. Okamura is able to make those wishes a reality. Some of the common procedures involved in aesthetic treatment include

  • Porcelain veneers - Porcelain is a top-notch aesthetic material because it looks so similar to natural enamel that they're almost indistinguishable. Once the veneer is in place, Dr. Okamura will put finishing touches on it to add personality and make it look like one of your own teeth.
  • Invisalign - Alternative orthodontic treatment is not only great for subtle straightening, but also allows you to make changes without compromising your comfort or daily life. Invisalign uses a system of clear trays to gradually shift your teeth into new positions, without broadcasting the fact that you're undergoing orthodontic treatment.
  • Teeth whitening - We're not talking about extreme whitening, but a gentle lift of accumulated stains. A little whitening can go a long way. See how rejuvenating its effects can be for yourself in just one appointment - your entire smile will look younger and more polished.
  • Dental bonding - Bonding adheres small portions of dental composite to your front teeth. Bonding is a simple, unnoticeable way to close spaces or cover exposed tooth roots.

Creating Your Perfect Smile in Seattle

We would love to tell you more about aesthetic treatment. Simply get in touch with our practice to schedule a consultation.

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Dr. Kim Okamura

I'm Dr. Kim Okamura and this blog is a product of my love of dentistry. I dedicate it to all the patients I have served so that they may better understand my craft. The information here will give you and others the power to maintain and protect one of your most priceless gifts ... your SMILE.