If you are unhappy with your smile because you think it look looks uneven or weird or shows too much of your gums, cosmetic dentistry can improve it. We will explain cosmetic dentistry, its benefits, and the procedures that can boost your confidence in your smile.
1. What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the art of making a positive change in the appearance of your smile. While general dentistry helps you achieve and maintain healthy teeth, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the beauty of your smile. A trained cosmetic dentist will examine and x-ray your teeth to determine which cosmetic dentistry procedures can achieve your smile goals and develop a customized treatment plan.
2. Why Is Cosmetic Dentistry Important?
Cosmetic dentistry is important because it can improve your self-esteem, confidence, and smile. Smiling freely without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed improves your social interactions and quality of life and improves your mood.
3. What Can Cosmetic Dentistry Correct?
Cosmetic dentistry can correct various flaws or imperfections in your teeth, including:
- Alignment
- Chips
- Damage from decay or trauma
- Discoloration or stains
- Excessive wear
- Gaps
- Missing teeth
4. What Are Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?
Cosmetic dentistry procedures are techniques that use dental restorations to improve your smile. Your treatment plan may include the following:
- Dental bonding – A cosmetic dentist blends composites to match your natural tooth color and skillfully applies them to your teeth while you sit in the dental chair. Bonding corrects small chips, gaps, and discoloration.
- Dental implants – A titanium artificial tooth root replaces a missing tooth. An implant dentist, oral surgeon, or periodontist will surgically place the implant in a small opening through your gum and jawbone. After your bone and gums heal around the implant, your dentist will provide a custom dental crown.
- Dental crowns – After removing severe decay or damage, a cosmetic dentist may cover the entire tooth with a dental crown to protect it.
- Orthodontics – Your cosmetic dentist may recommend braces to align your teeth and improve your oral health as part of your smile enhancement.
- Porcelain veneers – If you want to correct minor misalignment, spaces between teeth, discoloration, or tooth shape, your cosmetic dentist may recommend porcelain veneers.
- Teeth whitening – Whether you want to lighten your teeth a few shades or make them Hollywood white, a cosmetic dentist can brighten them. Most dentist offer in-office and take-home whitening with custom bleaching trays.
5. How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Take?
The length of your cosmetic dentistry treatment depends on the condition of your teeth and the improvements you want for your smile. After a consultation and exam, your cosmetic dentist will explain the length of your treatment plan. Your case may require a combination of treatments.
6. Will Dental Insurance Pay for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Although your dental insurance company will not pay for all your cosmetic dental care, it may cover a portion. After you get a treatment estimate from your cosmetic dentist, contact your insurance company to ask about plan benefits.
7. What Is the Cost of Cosmetic Dentistry?
The cost of cosmetic dentistry depends on which procedures you get. Dental bonding is usually the least expensive option, and dental implants and porcelain veneers are among the costliest. Still, your cost will depend on these factors:
- Your oral health
- The condition of your teeth
- Your smile goals
- The cosmetic treatment required
- Where you live in the U.S. and your dentist’s fees
Request a Consultation
In Vancouver, Washington, Dr. Mo Saleh has advanced cosmetic dentistry training. His training in implant and aesthetic dentistry will help him restore your smile and improve how you feel about it. Request a consultation today to discuss your concerns and learn how Dr. Saleh makes cosmetic dentistry affordable.
