Here’s a startling estimate for you…
… It’s estimated that over 1/4 of the money patients spend on cosmetic dentistry each year goes to redoing botched procedures from a previous dentist!
So doing your homework and making sure you make the best decisions for your situation is critical to getting the perfect smile you deserve. And to help you make that best decision, below we’ve shared 9 costly (and common) misconceptions to be aware of when considering cosmetic dentistry.
Misconception #1: It Can Harm Your Teeth and Gums
Cosmetic dentistry procedures are overall very safe.
In fact, they can actually improve the strength, structure and longevity of your teeth. There are, however, risks with any procedure no matter how minor.
The important thing is to find an experienced, qualified cosmetic dentist with a long track record of successful outcomes for their patients.
Misconception #2: It’s Not Affordable
Don’t write off pursuing the perfect smile because you assume it’s too expensive.
With recent advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry, there are a lot more options to choose from that will deliver that perfect smile you’re after. And a lot these treatments make cosmetic dentistry more affordable than ever.
There are also insurance and financing options that make even some of the costlier procedures more within reach. Also, keep in mind that getting a procedure done sooner rather than later can save you from more invasive and expensive procedures in the future.
Misconception #3: All Dentists Offering Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures are Created Equal
This misconception can potentially lead to disastrous results.
As we described earlier in this Consumer’s Guide, all cosmetic dentists are not created equal. Be sure to find a cosmetic dentist whose practice is mostly focused on cosmetic procedures and who have extensive training in the procedures they offer.
Misconception #4: It Takes Too Long
For many cosmetic treatments the results are immediate. Many are done in just one office visit.
It is rare for a cosmetic treatment to require you to take a full day off from work and/or be out of commission for a while afterwards for recovery. Most of the time you’ll leave the dentist’s office smiling… and able to eat, drink and talk as normal.
Misconception #5: It’s Painful
A lot of cosmetic dentistry procedures are not invasive and cause little to no pain or discomfort at all.
For more invasive procedures, anesthesia and/or sedation may be used so you won’t feel a thing.
Misconception #6: Cosmetic Dentistry is Only About Teeth Whitening (Or Implants)
This misconception can be partly blamed on dentists who offer teeth whitening or laser dentistry and then call themselves a cosmetic dentist.
The truth is there are many more procedures than the common teeth whitening and implants that fall under the description of cosmetic dentistry. These include braces (Invisalign), bridges, crowns and veneers.
Any treatment designed to give you whiter, straighter and more beautiful teeth can be considered cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Misconception #7: You Need To Treat All Your Teeth
This is nonsense. In fact, most cosmetic procedures don’t treat all your teeth.
A cosmetic procedure may be used to improve the appearance of just one of your teeth or more depending on your situation.
Misconception #8: It’s Never a Necessity
Not true. Cosmetic procedures promote good oral health and may be required in some situations.
They can be used to replace/restore cracked, broken or decayed teeth. Also, Periodontal Disease can cause damage to your teeth and gums that may require cosmetic procedures to treat.
Misconception #9: It Looks Unnatural
Well, it could if you visit a cosmetic dentist that doesn’t know what they’re doing and/or you use cheap materials.
But thanks to incredible advances in technology in recent years there are a number of very natural looking options available to you.
Treatments are highly customized and will leave you with a smile that looks and feels so natural most people won’t be able to tell (unless you tell them!).