Cosmetic dentistry is the service you get at a dental facility when the issue concerns the appearance of your teeth. These visible concerns include staining, chipping, gaps, tooth misalignment, and worn enamel, among others. Cosmetic procedures promise to improve appearance, but it’s important to know what they can accomplish and where they are limited, to set realistic expectations for your transformation.
A Glimpse at Cosmetic Dental Procedures
People report different appearance issues, and the treatment course for patients also varies.
Things Cosmetic Procedures Don’t Fix
Cosmetic dentistry won’t fix underlying structural problems or bite issues. You need orthodontic treatment or restorative work for that. Think about veneers. They might make your teeth appear straight, but they don’t actually reposition roots or correct jaw alignment.
Patients should also note that whitening treatments work differently for different types of discoloration. For instance, if you have gray or brown stains caused by antibiotics or fluorosis, these don’t respond to bleaching agents. On top of that, patients who’ve had installations like crowns, veneers, and fillings done don’t respond to whitening at all. And specifically, those who’ve had many restorations done experience color-matching challenges when trying to whiten their natural teeth.
If you have severely damaged or decayed teeth, you need restorative treatment before you can start thinking about cosmetic procedures. The dentist should address any cavities, infections, and structural damage, because when cosmetic work is applied to compromised teeth, it’s bound to fail.
Maintenance After Your Procedure
Cosmetic dentistry results require ongoing care to maintain appearance. For instance:
- You need to schedule touch-ups for whitened teeth every 6-18 months
- Patients with bonding need to be extra careful since the treatment is susceptible to staining and chipping
- Veneers require intentional oral hygiene to prevent gum disease around the margins
However, above all, following the dentist’s advice on how to maintain your new smile is the best way to safeguard your investment.
Does Cosmetic Dentistry Work
Yes, but that also depends on the patient’s starting conditions. Dentists check a few factors before recommending treatments, including:
- Tooth structure and enamel thickness
- Gum health and any tissue condition
- Your bite alignment and jaw positioning
- Whether you have existing dental work, like fillings or crowns
Patients with thin enamel face quite some challenges because aggressive treatments can lead to tooth sensitivity and structural damage.
Additionally, natural variations in tooth anatomy affect results. For instance, some people have naturally translucent edges or internal discoloration that shows through veneers. Dentists discuss these factors during consultations to ensure patients understand potential limitations.
What Is the Right Choice for Your Smile
Cosmetic dentistry is a good place to start, but you need first to schedule a consultation visit to help your dentist understand your needs. The dentist checks your teeth, discusses what you want your smile to look like, and explains which procedures can work within your budget and time frame. This process helps you clearly understand your choices.
The best part about modern dentistry is that you get to see a preview of what your results will look like via the digital design tool. This makes it easier to invest and gives you confidence in what the transformation can do.
It’s also a good idea to shop around. See more than one dentist and hear about their pricing and treatment plans. Consider their experience with your specific problem and ask to see past results.
Tess DiNapoli is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness, but also enjoys covering the fashion industry and world of fitness.
