7 essential things worth knowing about cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is all about perfecting your smile. Whether you have stained teeth because of smoking or are worried about uneven teeth impacting your smile and confidence, there is always a treatment to consider. Over the years, cosmetic dental care has evolved drastically, and better procedures are now available for patients of all ages. Before you consider using cosmetic dental services, here are seven essential things to know. 

1. Dentists often combine cosmetic & restorative treatments: While cosmetic dentistry focuses on aesthetics, the treatments are often combined with restorative procedures. For example, if you have chipped or cracked teeth, you will need veneers or crowns. The goal of your dentist is to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome without compromising on how your teeth look. In fact, many dental clinics offer a mix of services to ensure patients get the care they need. Tooth whitening is the most common procedure: If you have discolored, stained teeth, you can ask your dentist about whitening procedures.
2.  Also called teeth bleaching, whitening treatments can be done at the dental clinic by a professional, or you can choose to get take-home kits. In-office teeth whitening offers immediate results but is more expensive, while at-home kits are relatively cheaper but take time to show results. In general, whitening procedures are among the most popular and sought-after in cosmetic dentistry. 
3. The results aren’t permanent: Dental veneers, teeth whitening, onlays, inlays, bonding – Almost none of these cosmetic dentistry treatments are permanent. You will have to return for touchups and replacements as necessary. For instance, if you continue to smoke or drink certain beverages, your teeth will stain again, which means your dentist will have to do a whitening procedure again. The same is true for veneers, which can last for a decade or more but eventually have to be replaced. 
4. You have options: When you see a cosmetic dentist for a particular aesthetic issue, they will usually explain the options you can consider. A lot depends on the procedure, cost, and outcomes, but as a patient, you should ask about each before deciding on one. If you have extremely stained teeth, you may have the choice of whitening and veneers, and your dentist may suggest the latter for better results, even though the cost is higher. 
5. Expertise is everything: Just like you would be careful about selecting a general dentist for tooth extractions, you must be just as careful when selecting a cosmetic dentist. Not all dental clinics offer the same treatments and procedures, and many may not have favorable feedback from patients. Do your research, ask others for recommendations, and look at online reviews before choosing a practice. 
6. Insurance may not cover the costs: Cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by dental insurance, but depending on the plan you have, the provider may offer partial coverage. Fortunately, some clinics in the city have flexible payment schedules, and you can enquire with the staff to know more. 
7. You can go for multiple treatments simultaneously: If you are interested in a complete smile makeover, your dentist can combine different options together. While the outcomes are excellent for many patients, it is essential to check if there are underlying teeth and gum concerns. Dentists usually do a complete oral exam and prepare a custom treatment plan for each patient.  

Concluding summary

Contrary to what many people assume, it is never too late to consider cosmetic dentistry. Regardless of your age and concerns, you deserve to know whether there is a way to transform your smile. At the least, schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist for a quick overview of treatments.