When you hear the words, "cosmetic dentistry," what do you think about? Do you immediately think about expensive dental procedures that can make you instantly more beautiful? Below are four of the common misconceptions that people have regarding cosmetic dentistry, and why they are not necessarily true.
Your Insurance Won't Pay for Cosmetic Dentistry
Many insurance companies will not pay for procedures, such as teeth whitening, because they are considered elective as opposed to necessary. However, there are many aspects of cosmetic dentistry that go hand-in-hand with restorative dentistry. For example, having implants placed may improve your jaw function, and veneers may be necessary when you lose a certain amount of surface enamel. Going to a cosmetic dentist for these restorative issues ensures that your final dental solution looks good and is functional, but your dental insurance will likely still cover all or part of the bill.
Cosmetic Dentistry Is a Permanent Solution
Many cosmetic dental solutions, such as gum trimming or crowns, are meant to be permanent. However, with many solutions, you still have to keep up with routine dental care and possible future adjustments. For example, if you have a gap in your teeth closed, you may have to wear a retainer some or all of the time to keep your teeth in the correct position.
You Must Decide Between At-Home Care and Professional Solutions
There are benefits to both at-home cosmetic dental care and in-office solutions. For example, if you decide to opt for professional whitening, you should still maintain your white smile between visits with an appropriate toothbrush and whitening toothpaste. The most effective solution for a great smile will usually involve some aspect of at-home care along with some in-office, professional care.
Cosmetic Dentistry Is a Fast Process
You may read signs that advertise a one-day smile or one-day implant. While these exist, they provide a narrow service for patients who already know exactly what they want. More thorough cosmetic dentistry will start with a full smile assessment, which may take an entire appointment on its own. You will then devise a treatment plan with your dentist to get the smile that you want, and some cosmetic procedures, such as tooth alignment, may take several months to complete.
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to have a realistic idea of the results that can be achieved. You should talk with a cosmetic dentist like those at Carpenter Dental in your area to help you better understand what cosmetic dentistry can offer you.
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