The definition of cosmetic dentistry is any treatment method that aims to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. This is in contrast to general dentistry, which is all about treating and preventing oral health problems. There can be some crossover, but the main focus of cosmetic dental procedures is to enhance the aesthetics of your teeth. In this article, we will look at the most common types of cosmetic dentistry treatments, the price, risks, and how to find the best dentist.
Types of Cosmetic Dental Work
Cosmetic dental work is any procedure that has the main goal of improving the look of your teeth and smile rather than treating oral health problems. The most common types of cosmetic dental work include:
- Porcelain veneers - These are shells that are placed over your teeth. Porcelain veneers are used to cover up imperfections such as crooked, chipped, malformed, or stained teeth. Veneers have the added benefit of protecting your teeth from stains, cavities, and decay. They can be applied in under 1 hour, and the procedure is painless. Veneers are custom created for you and can be made in any shape or color, giving you a natural and aesthetic look.
- Teeth whitening - Your dentist can make your teeth 8 to 10 shades lighter using a quick and painless teeth whitening method. Your dentist will coat your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and then shine a special laser on your teeth, activating the bleaching agent. Just one hour later, your teeth will be significantly whiter. The results can last for up to 3 years!
- Gum contouring - Do you have a gummy smile or a receding gum line? You can quickly enhance the way your gums look with gum contouring. During this procedure, your dentist will either cut away excess gum or restore gum tissue. This treatment is permanent and only takes between 1 to 2 hours.
- Dental crowns - Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over your existing tooth. A dental crown is used if you have decayed or misshapen teeth. Crowns are typically made from porcelain and custom-made for you, resulting in a lovely natural look.
It doesn’t matter how unsatisfied you are with your teeth. By selecting the right cosmetic dentist and procedure, you can fix virtually any issue and achieve a movie-star smile!
Why Do People Get Cosmetic Dentistry?
People get cosmetic dentistry to improve the way their teeth look. Most people do not have perfectly straight and white teeth. However, people can significantly improve the overall look of their teeth and smile by opting for different treatments.
Based on a review the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure is porcelain veneers. This is because veneers can cover up a range of dental flaws, including staining and crooked teeth. Veneers give you the appearance of gorgeous white teeth while still looking natural.
What Are the Risks of Cosmetic Dentistry?
The risks of cosmetic dentistry are very low. Most teeth cosmetic treatments are non-invasive or only minorly invasive, which is why this service is so popular. For example, teeth whitening is 100% safe and painless, and you don’t have to receive any anesthetic.
For gum contouring and porcelain veneers, you will require a local anesthetic to numb your gums and teeth, but the procedure is incredibly safe. You won’t feel any pain during the treatment and will be fully recovered within a few days.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Expensive?
The price of cosmetic dentistry can vary significantly based on the particular procedure you opt for and the number. Here are some price lists for common cosmetic dentistry procedures:
- Porcelain veneers - Porcelain veneers cost between $800 and $1200 per tooth.
- Gum contouring - Gum contouring costs between $50 to $350 per tooth.
- Teeth whitening - Professional teeth whitening from a dentist costs between $300 and $800.
- Dental crowns - High-quality porcelain or zirconia dental crowns cost between $800 to $1300 per tooth.
Cosmetic dentistry can be expensive, especially if you receive numerous treatments. However, the increased confidence and self-esteem boost you receive from your new aesthetic teeth makes it worth it!
Does Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?
Elective cosmetic dentistry procedures are not covered by dental insurance. Typically dental insurance will only cover restorative procedures that are required to improve your oral health. However, there are a number of cosmetic procedures that fall under restorative dentistry, such as crowns, implants, and in some cases, veneers. These treatments may improve the cosmetics of your teeth and smile, but they also play a key role in improving your speech, chewing, and protecting your teeth from decay.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right For You?
If you are unsatisfied with your teeth and smile, then you should book an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. There are a number of non-invasive and affordable services that can completely transform the way your teeth look. Some popular procedures worth considering include porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and gum contouring.
Contact Advanced Wellness Dental Center today, and our talented dentists will recommend the best practices so you can get the teeth you have always dreamed of! We will provide you with all the information you need to select the ideal options for your teeth.
