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Reconstructive Surgery and Cosmetic Dentistry

Other than purely cosmetic reasons for seeking plastic surgery, there is also reconstructive plastic surgery. Reconstructive plastic surgery repairs the function and appearance of a specific body-part or feature defect. People may seek reconstructive plastic surgery for medical reasons, birth defects or deformities that may inhibit daily living activities, or a traumatic injury such as dog bites or injuries sustained in a car accident. The largest number of reconstructive surgeries involves the treatment of tumors, such as biopsies and tumor removal.

Other medical reasons for reconstructive surgery or facial reconstructive surgery are to treat certain medical conditions, such as sleep apnea and sinus diseases. The sleep apnea disorder contributes to heart disease and strokes, among other medical conditions. Sinus diseases prevent the regular flow of air and mucous through the nose. These conditions may require plastic reconstructive procedures such as rhinoplasty, cheek implants or a facelift.

Those suffering from injuries sustained from automobile accidents, dog bites, or any other traumatic injury also benefit from reconstructive plastic surgery. Traumatic injuries can cause serious lacerations, bony injuries, and facial fractures of the jaw or cheek. Burn victims may also require reconstructive surgery. Most emergency rooms have affiliated plastic surgeons.

There is also the matter of cosmetic dentistry. Sometimes teeth can be broken or deformed due to a traumatic injury. Whereas normal dentistry focuses on the health and wellbeing of your teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person's teeth, mouth and smile.

Several types of cosmetic dentistry include: inlays and overlays, composite bonding, veneers, and dental implants.

Inlays and overlays are made from porcelain or composite materials which provide a long-lasting and cosmetic filling to teeth with tooth decay or similar structural damage.

Composite bonding is done when a composite material with the look of enamel and dentin is applied into the cavity or onto the surface of a tooth. This material is sculpted into shape, and then contoured and hardened with a high-intensity light. The benefit of composite bonding is that it blends invisibly with the remainder of the surrounding tooth structure and the rest of your natural teeth. Veneers are composite or porcelain laminates that are bonded to the surface of a tooth with an adhesive. Veneers correct and repair chips and cracks and have the additional benefit of improving a worn appearance or severe tooth discoloration.

Dental implants are used as a part of prosthetic dentistry in order to compensate for tooth loss. These are artificial tooth and root replacements, and help fix the shape of the face as lost teeth cause the facial structure to collapse.

When seeking any sort of facial reconstructive surgery, it is advisable to look into cosmetic dentistry as well, as you may benefit from both.