Do you have missing, discolored, or chipped teeth? Are you wondering if you need cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is about more than just getting a straighter smile. It can actually improve your oral health and reduce your pain. In addition, cosmetic dentistry can enhance your appearance and give you a big self-esteem boost.
What is cosmetic dentistry, and how can it benefit you?
Let’s take a look.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is designed to enhance your smile. Certain dentists specialize in cosmetic dentistry and restoring your smile’s natural appearance.
Cosmetic dentistry may focus on your mouth, teeth, and gums. You may be correcting missing teeth, a minor discoloration, or anything in between.
Cosmetic dentistry can correct imperfections, fix speech impediments, and improve your confidence. If the appearance of your teeth makes you uncomfortable, it’s worth it to find out what cosmetic dentistry can do for you.
What Are the Types of Cosmetic Dentistry?
Some cosmetic dentistry types will focus on missing teeth. For example, dental implants look and feel like regular teeth. They are a wonderful option for those with cracked or missing teeth.
Dental crowns, however, are slightly less expensive than implants. These are caps for missing teeth created out of porcelain or metal.
Dental bridges are false teeth that get held in place by abutment teeth on either side. They may get made from anything from porcelain to gold.
Dental bonding is a procedure in which resin is applied to your teeth and hardened with a special light. It’s used for chipped or cracked teeth.
Dental Onlays are applied to damage in the cusps of your teeth. This is the biting surface. They may get made from porcelain, resin, or gold.
Dentures may also get created by your cosmetic dentist. These are false teeth and gums that can get used in place of your natural teeth. Your cosmetic dentist can custom-design them to fit your mouth.
Dental veneers are often chosen by those with chipped or misshapen teeth. They use thin covers that give your teeth a more classic appearance. If you’re looking for a less invasive, less expensive option, dental veneers could be a good choice.
Teeth whitening is also a popular cosmetic dental treatment. This lightens the color of your teeth through bleaching and whitening.
Where Do I Find a Cosmetic Dentist?
You can look on the websites of local dentists to find out if cosmetic dentistry is a specialty of theirs. They should have some “cosmetic dentistry” options listed under their “services.” You’ll want to look for things like bridges, bonding, and crowns.
Since your dental insurance may cover part of the cost of your cosmetic dental procedures, you may want to begin by asking your co-workers who they would recommend. They may be able to give you the name of an excellent local dentist who’s covered. It’s important to choose someone who is located close by since you may be traveling to the office more than once for the treatments.
In addition, you should ask for recommendations and read online reviews to get an idea of what former patients are saying.
Was the dentist knowledgeable and friendly? Was there a long way? Were there any unexpected costs along the way?
The right dentist for you will have years of experience with cosmetic dental procedures. They should be able to explain yours logically and clearly. And they should give you the confidence that you’re making a good decision.
How Can I Afford Cosmetic Dentistry?
Since cosmetic dentistry is, by its nature, cosmetic, it’s unlikely that your health insurance company will cover the cost. Your dental insurance company may, however, cover at least part of it. Talk to your insurance company customer service department or HR representative before you agree to treatment.
In addition, your dentist may offer payment plan options. This means that you will be able to pay the treatment off a little each month so that it fits nicely into your budget. Your dentist may also offer discounts, so be sure to ask about them before you sign up.
Some folks also pay for their cosmetic dentistry through a Health Savings Account (HSA.) Check with your employer about this option. If you have dental insurance that covers part of the treatment, you may be able to pay for the rest from your HSA.
An HSA allows you to put aside a certain amount of tax-sheltered money each month that can be used to pay for health-related expenses. This may include dentistry, vision care or co-pays. It allows you to keep more of what you earn while helping you to save for medical needs.
Similarly, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) will allow you to put aside tax-protected money for your medical needs. If your company doesn’t have an HSA available, you may want to ask about an FSA option.
An FSA, however, is owned by your employer rather than yourself. This means that if you don’t use your funds during a year, you will lose them. With an HSA, however, you’ll be able to roll them over into the next annual year.
Smiling On
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, it pays to invest in cosmetic dentistry. You can talk to your dentist about the best option for you and find the right way to pay for it. With a little forethought, your smile could be looking brand-new in no time.
Don’t stop getting smart about your grin now. For professional help with your smile, contact us today.