If you’re looking for ways to enhance your smile, you likely came across a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments. They can help address flaws in your teeth that bother you, but you may feel hesitant to dive into the services due to some misconceptions you’ve heard before. Perhaps you don’t want to seem vain or heard there’s a huge paywall, but these are just misunderstandings. Let’s clear the air and debunk four common myths about cosmetic dentistry.
Myth #1: The Treatments Are Purely Cosmetic
Although this type of dental work is meant to transform your smile, it can do more than offer a purely aesthetic fix. Many treatments can transform the look of your teeth, but they can also protect your pearly whites or provide a replacement. For instance, here are some other benefits aside from the cosmetic enhancement of popular services:
- Veneers can act as a shield for thin enamel, mitigating any tooth sensitivity you may feel.
- Metal-free dental crowns protect teeth that have undergone a root canal or are severely damaged, while simultaneously giving them a renewed appearance.
- Dental implants stimulate your jawbone, preserving the density and keeping your jaw healthy. Plus, they beautifully fill in any awkward gaps in your smile!
Myth #2: It’s Expensive
As dentistry continues to evolve, so does the technology used. The latest equipment and materials have made cosmetic dental treatments more accessible and affordable than they were in the past.
Even though dental insurance plans typically don’t cover cosmetic dentistry, there are some exceptions. For instance, dental crowns are often considered a restorative treatment, so your insurance may cover a portion of the cost! Your dental office can also make cosmetic dental work more affordable by offering flexible financing from third-party financiers.
Myth #3: Cosmetic Dentistry Damages Teeth
The reality of this misconception is actually the opposite! A healthy set of pearly whites is needed before undergoing any cosmetic dental treatment. Oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth infections, all pose risks to these types of services.
Additionally, professional treatments are safer for your teeth than DIY ones. For example, store-bought or homemade teeth whitening products can damage your enamel when used improperly. A professional service can deliver the results you want in a shorter timeframe while ensuring your oral health remains intact.
Myth #4: The Results Look Fake
Modern cosmetic dentistry results often appear very natural in a person’s smile. Treatments like veneers, direct bonding, and other metal-free dental restorations are color-matched to the rest of your teeth. Some of these restorations are made from porcelain or ceramic, which even reflect light in the same way natural teeth do.
These materials used in modern cosmetic dental treatments are designed to appear incredibly natural-looking, so the only thing that other people notice is how beautiful your smile is!
Misinformation about cosmetic dental work may cause you to worry about undergoing the treatment yourself. Whether you’re concerned about preserving your oral health or unnatural-looking results, you can always talk to your dentist about your concerns. They can clear up any rumors you’ve heard and let you know the facts!
About the Practice
At Grant E. & Mark A. Smith DDS, we have been proudly serving the Sherman community for over 25 years! Your oral health is our top priority, but we understand the benefits an aesthetically pleasing smile can bring to you. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments while also ensuring your pearly whites stay strong and healthy. If you have imperfections such as stains or chips in your teeth that you would like to have fixed, schedule an appointment or call us at (903) 893-8030.