Are you satisfied with your smile? Do you feel confident in social and professional settings? If the answer is no, then cosmetic dentistry may be right for you. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the appearance of your smile through treatments and procedures that correct or conceal imperfections.
Cosmetic enhancements can boost your confidence and self-esteem in ways you never thought possible. It may even have the power to change your life. Read on to learn what cosmetic dentistry can do for you.
Why a Confident Smile Matters
Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. First impressions tend to stick and may be difficult to overcome. What kind of impression is your smile making? The psychological impact of your smile on your own self-perception is significant. If you don’t feel good about your smile, it can have a negative effect on your mental health.
Numerous studies have identified a strong link between oral health and mental wellness. Those that feel confident enough to smile often tend to have a better outlook on life and a tendency to be more successful. If your smile isn’t what you want it to be, cosmetic dentistry gives you the opportunity to transform it.
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures That Transform Smiles
- Teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening treatments are the most effective way to whiten your smile. With both in-office and take-home options, you can whiten your teeth in a way that fits into your schedule.
- Clear aligners. Straighten your teeth discreetly with clear aligners. Invisalign and other clear aligner systems can correct common orthodontic issues such as crooked teeth, gaps, and bite misalignment.
- Veneers. Thin porcelain shells can be bonded to the front side of your teeth to conceal a variety of imperfections from stains to chips to uneven lengths.
- Cosmetic bonding. Teeth with minor chips can be reshaped using composite material. Cosmetic bonding can also be used to conceal stains that don’t respond to whitening treatment.
- Microabrasion. In order to remove spots and stains from your teeth, microabrasion scrubs away a very thin layer of enamel to reveal the unblemished layer beneath.
Some restorative procedures also serve a cosmetic purpose:
- Crowns. A tooth-shaped cover placed over a tooth to conceal damage or decay. It restores the health of the tooth, allowing the natural root to remain in place.
- Bridges. Replace one or a few teeth in a row using a dental prosthetic that connects to the healthy teeth next to the gap.
- Dental implants. A titanium post placed in the jaw to take the place of the natural root of a tooth. A crown can be attached to replace a single tooth, providing a secure prosthetic that acts like a natural tooth.
- Dentures. When many or all of your teeth need to be replaced, dentures offer a functional, natural looking solution.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right For You?
When it comes to deciding if you are interested in pursuing cosmetic dentistry, consider the following factors:
- Goals. Determine your goals for your smile and whether or not cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve them.
- Budget. Establish a budget for treatment, as most cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance.
- Health. Your oral health and overall health should be your top priority. Any restorative procedures that are needed should be taken care of first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
Why isn’t cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?
Dental insurance only covers procedures that serve an oral health purpose. Cosmetic dentistry is not considered to be medically necessary, and therefore it is not covered. However, financing options are available to make the cost more affordable.
Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?
Not at all. Most cosmetic procedures are non-invasive, and anesthesia is available to ensure your comfort when necessary.
At Zuri Dental we believe that everyone should feel confident about their smile. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments along with our other dental services to create healthy smiles. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
