If you’ve ever wondered why your favorite movie stars all have incredibly straight and white teeth, the secret has been waiting for you at your dentist’s office. Cosmetic dentistry has become more affordable and available to the public over the past few decades, but there are some common misconceptions floating about that might give you some wrong ideas about how it works. Read on to learn about some of these rumors as well as why they are false.
Misconception #1: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Entirely for Looks
Cosmetic dentistry can have some visually stunning results, but its benefits go far beyond your smile’s appearance. Your teeth can begin to show damage over years of use, and neglecting to correct it can leave your teeth vulnerable to further injury. Using dental bonding can fill in a chip or a crack, preventing the damage from worsening due to exposure. Similarly, enamel erosion can cause teeth to become more susceptible to damage or sensitive to temperature. Porcelain veneers can provide protection for teeth with weakened enamel.
Misconception #2: Store-Bought Teeth Whitening Kits Are Just as Good as Professional Treatments from Your Dentist
You may have seen many whitening products at your local supermarket or pharmacy. While these may be effective at whitening your teeth, the results are not as profound or long-lasting as those of a professional whitening treatment from your dentist. Some of these retail products can also result in uneven whitening due to not fitting the teeth properly or injury due to a poorly formulated product. Your dentist, on the other hand, can provide you with an in-office procedure or a take-home kit that can whiten your teeth by up to ten shades.
Misconception #3: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Expensive
The costs of cosmetic dentistry have continued to fall as technology advances, allowing procedures to be done more efficiently. If your cosmetic procedure is considered restorative, it is likely to be covered by most insurance companies to some extent.
Misconception #4: Cosmetic Dentistry Will Deprive My Smile of Its Individuality
If you are worried that cosmetic dental procedures will just reshape your teeth into someone else’s idea of an ideal smile, you can put your fears to rest because these procedures are tailored to meet your individual goals. Your restorations will be matched to the color of your real teeth. If you want to keep that gap that gives your smile so much character, that can be done. There’s no need to worry about being stuck with generic, assembly-line teeth.
If you’re self-conscious about your smile, don’t let a few misunderstandings get in your way of exploring cosmetic dental options. Your dentist can help you achieve that beautiful, unique smile you’ve always dreamed of.
About the Author
Dr. Salari studied at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium before completing a three-year residency at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She is an expert in implant dentistry, full mouth reconstruction, and smile makeovers. Her office in Annandale, VA offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. For more information on what cosmetic dentistry can do for you, contact her online or dial (703) 763-0800.