Have you come across some 'facts' about cosmetic dental services that you consider doubtful? Our Collingwood dentists set the record straight about some common misconceptions.
Myths You May Have Heard About Cosmetic Dental Procedures
In spite of the value of cosmetic dental procedures, some common myths abound. Today, we want to clear up some of those myths so that you feel confident choosing cosmetic dental treatments that can help to improve the function and appearance of your smile.
1. Cosmetic dental procedures are purely about looks.
While we may use the term 'cosmetic' to describe these procedures, in many ways they play a key role in helping to 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 implants also work to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of position into the gap, which in turn helps prevent other oral health problems.
2. Cosmetic dental services are always expensive.
Recent advances in dental technology and science mean that 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 by your plan.
At Collingwood Dental Centre, we also offer flexible payment options to help you conveniently pay for your procedures.
3. Teeth whitening treatments damage teeth.
When done correctly and under the supervision of your dentist, teeth whitening is considered a safe procedure, and the risk of damage to your teeth is quite low. Before your teeth whitening treatment your dentist will evaluate your dental health to determine whether it can be done safely and effectively on your teeth.
4. Cosmetic dental procedures take a long time and multiple visits to the dentist.
With today’s dental technology, we are able to offer cosmetic dental services designed to fit your schedule and be more affordable than ever. Many cosmetic dental procedures take just an hour or two and we are often able to provide patients with crowns, inlays and onlays in just one appointment.
5. Cosmetic dental procedures are unnecessary.
Many cosmetic dental procedures, from veneers to bonding, can be used to fix long-standing dental issues. 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 even if the procedure isn't required from an oral health perspective.
6. Cosmetic dental procedures hurt.
Our dentists strive to make every appointment as comfortable as possible. Many cosmetic procedures are actually 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. Results from your cosmetic dental procedure won’t look natural.
At Collingwood Dental Centre, we use modern technology and processes to help us achieve the most natural-looking results we can 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.