You might have heard a few 'facts' about cosmetic dental services that sound doubtful. Today, our Orléans dentists clear the air and set the record straight on some of these misconceptions.
Common Myths About Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Despite how valuable cosmetic dental procedures can be, there are some common myths being spread about them. In this post, we want to clear a few of them up.
1. Cosmetic dental procedures are cosmetic only.
While we may use the term 'cosmetic' to describe these procedures, in many ways they can absolutely contribute to helping improve or restore your oral health.
For example, while dental bonding can be used to improve the appearance of chipped or discoloured teeth, it can also be used to protect exposed tooth roots due to receding gums. Covering those roots is an integral step in restoring gum tissue – and helping you feel relief from gum sensitivity that often accompanies gum disease.
Dental implant surgery can help restore the appearance of your smile by filling the gaps left by missing teeth, but it also serves a very real functional purpose: implants help prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of position into the gap, which in turn helps prevent other oral health problems.
2. It's expensive to get cosmetic dental services done.
As a result of the recent advancements made in dental technology and science, cosmetic dental services have become somewhat less costly than they once were. Cosmetic dental services that are deemed necessary by your insurance company – such as crowns or dental implants – may even be covered.
3. Teeth whitening damages teeth.
When done properly and under your dentist's supervision, teeth whitening is considered safe, and the risk of damage to your teeth is quite low. Your dentist will evaluate your dental health before starting the teeth whitening process to determine whether it can be done safely and effectively on your teeth.
4. It takes a long time to complete cosmetic dental procedures.
With today’s cosmetic dental technology, we can offer services to fit your schedule and budget. Many cosmetic dental procedures take just an hour or two and one appointment to improve the appearance of your teeth.
5. Cosmetic dental procedures are unnecessary.
Lots of cosmetic dental procedures, like veneers and bonding, can be used to fix long-standing dental problems. But what is 'necessary' for you depends not only on your dental health. If a cosmetic dental procedure might help increase your self-confidence and thereby your quality of life, it may indeed be necessary.
6. It's painful to get cosmetic dental procedures done.
Our dentists aim to make each appointment as comfortable as we can. Many cosmetic procedures are minimally invasive and involve very little pain for the patient. Though your mouth may feel sensitive for a short time following some procedures, this should fade quickly.
7. The results won’t look natural.
At our Orléans dental office, we use modern technology and processes to help us achieve the most natural-looking results possible for your smile. Whether you are looking into teeth whitening, veneers, or another cosmetic dental procedure, ask us how we can help you reach your smile goals.