Despite its many incredible benefits, there are still plenty of untrue rumors out there about cosmetic dentistry. Whether it’s a misconception about the cost, or even about how effective certain treatments are, these myths can make choosing to improve your smile an unnecessarily difficult decision. Here’s a closer look at five misconceptions about cosmetic dentistry, and why you won’t regret upgrading your gorgeous grin!
Over the Counter Whitening is the Same as Professional Whitening
You’ve probably seen those over-the-counter whitening strips or gels that promise big results for a fraction of the price of professional treatment. Unfortunately, however, these products rarely live up to the hype because they use diluted ingredients and end up taking way longer to get noticeable results than professional products would. In fact, even though they start out being more affordable, they often end up costing about the same by the time you get the smile you want! Unfortunately, however, instead of achieving your desired shade in about an hour for in-office whitening and two weeks for a custom take-home kit, they can take months to work, exposing your teeth to harmful chemicals and extending pain and sensitivity for way longer than necessary!
It’s for Looks Only
Of course, one of the main goals of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the aesthetics of your smile, but often, these treatments have oral health benefits, too. For example, gum recontouring doesn’t just make your grin look less gummy and your teeth appear larger- it also can lower your risk of developing gum disease by removing superfluous periodontal tissue and making it easier to brush and floss! Furthermore, because it makes your smile more attractive, cosmetic dentistry can boost your confidence and self-esteem so its easier to excel in other areas, such as in your career or social life!
You Need Braces to Get Straighter Teeth
While it’s true that treatments like Invisalign are an excellent way to straighten your teeth, they can take many months or even years to get results. For patients seeking a faster path to an even smile, treatments like veneers can make it look like your teeth are perfectly flush, creating a gorgeous, streamlined appearance in about two weeks!
It Hurts
In most cases, cosmetic dentistry treatments aren’t painful. For some, your dentist may need to numb your mouth during the procedure, but there shouldn’t be a lot of residual discomfort once the effect wears off. Still, if there is, your dentist will discuss this with you during your consultation and will provide you with complete aftercare instructions to help keep swelling and other unpleasant side effects to a minimum.
It Costs too Much
Cosmetic dentistry often gets a bad rap as being “expensive”, but the truth is, it’s really not any more costly than any other type of oral health treatment- it’s just that because its considered aesthetic, most dental insurance plans won’t cover it. Thankfully, there are often other financing options available from your dentist, such as flexible financing plans which can help you split the cost of your treatment into multiple, low or no interest monthly payments.
Remember, although there’s certainly no shortage of rumors out there about cosmetic dentistry, the truth is that this aesthetic branch of oral healthcare isn’t just about looks – these safe, effective treatments and can improve the appearance and condition of your smile!
About Dr. Dadaciu
Dr. Cornelia Dadaciu earned her first dental degree in her native Romania at the Ovidius University School of Dentistry, and her second dental degree here in the United States at Nova Southeastern University School of Dentistry. She has also completed courses at the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and the International Live Patient Program with ITC Seminars. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry and see how it can change your mind about your smile, schedule a consultation with Delray Beach Smile Design by visiting our website or calling 561-404-4804.