There are a lot of cosmetic dentistry services available, from simple teeth whitening procedures to more drastic ones, such as veneers or dental implants. To determine if cosmetic dentistry is right for you, make sure you know what is involved with each treatment and ask questions.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
A cosmetic dentist is a dentist who specializes in improving the appearance as well as the function of your smile using cosmetic dentistry methods. It can also help reduce other dental problems hindering your oral health.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments Include:
- Dental implants
- Dental veneers
- Dental bonding
- Bridges and crowns
- Teeth whitening
How Cosmetic Dentistry Works
Dentists use cosmetic dentistry techniques to improve the appearance of smiles and give teeth a whiter and brighter appearance.
A cosmetic dentist also uses it to correct traumas, such as chipped or broken teeth, gaps between teeth, misaligned bites, dental injuries, worn down tooth enamel, or when dentures are no longer comfortable.
It is also an option for patients who do not have any dental problems with their bite but are unhappy with their smile appearance.
Cosmetic dentistry can correct dental problems, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Uneven gums
- Dental decay
- Gaps between teeth
- Permanently stained teeth
What Is the Difference Between a Cosmetic Dentist and General Care Dentist?
A cosmetic dentist improves the physical appearance, functionality, and health of teeth. In contrast, a general care dentist is a medical professional who specializes in oral health and provides corrective treatments for dental problems.
These specialities often go hand-in-hand.
Candidacy for Cosmetic Dentistry
Those interested in cosmetic dentistry would like to improve the look of their smile.
Maybe they are missing one or more teeth. A dental implant is a restorative procedure that improves the look and function of the mouth.
Or, maybe they are hoping to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. If so, in-office teeth whitening treatments are the way to go.
Patients have numerous options when it comes to their cosmetic dentistry needs.
Recovery After Cosmetic Dentistry
There is a recovery period after cosmetic dentistry procedures, just like any procedure. Your dentist will discuss this with you beforehand to assure you know what to expect.
It’s important to remember that no two people will experience these processes in the same way, so please consult your dentist beforehand if you have any concerns or questions!
What Are the Most Important Questions to Ask About the Cosmetic Dentistry Process?
The first question you should be asking is how much it will cost. It’s important to understand what you are getting into before committing your hard-earned money. The dentist may offer payment plans or financing options to help you out with this.
The second question is, how long does the procedure take? You’ll want to be aware of any time commitments that will negatively affect your schedule in the future. Temporary adjustments after cosmetic dentistry may include not being able to speak, eat, drink, or brush your teeth while you are recovering.
The third question is whether or not this process will affect your oral health in any way? Cosmetic dentistry has helped thousands of people regain their confidence and smile by giving them a beautiful smile. It can be a better option for anyone self-conscious about their teeth.
