Many people wrongly assume that cosmetic dentistry is only for Hollywood celebs and the rich. If you feel concerned or don’t like your smile, you should see a cosmetic dentist – period. Over the last two decades, the quality and range of treatments have evolved rapidly, and procedures are now available for every patient. Before you consult a dentist in Albany, CA, to enhance your smile, let’s debunk some of the common myths.
Cosmetic dental procedures will damage teeth
This is probably the most common reason why many patients don’t seek help for their smile issues. No, cosmetic dental procedures will not ruin your teeth or gums as long as you choose a dependable and reputed clinic. Experienced dentists take all possible steps and precautionary measures before they address cosmetic concerns.
Cosmetic treatments make teeth look fake
That’s a myth. The purpose of cosmetic dental care is to give you a confident smile. Modern treatments focus on creating a natural look. Whether you are considering veneers or teeth whitening, your teeth won’t look fake. We recommend that you insist on seeing before-and-after pictures to have a realistic overview of the results.
Cosmetic treatments cause pain
Again, this is untrue. Most of the common cosmetic dentistry procedures are minimally invasive and won’t cause discomfort or pain. Your dentist will use local anesthesia, if necessary, and if there are small issues like sensitivity, those should fade soon. If you still feel concerned, discuss every aspect with your dental care provider.
Treatments take time
While some cosmetic dental procedures require going to the clinic many times, many treatments offer instant results. Take teeth whitening as an example – A standard in-office procedure doesn’t take more than an hour. Technology in the field has advanced significantly, and many treatments are now more effective and faster.
Cosmetic dentistry for the young
That’s another misconception. No matter your age, you can see a cosmetic dentist if you have issues like cracked, chipped, worn, stained, or gapped teeth. Of course, the dentist will decide the treatment plan based on the condition of your natural teeth, but there is something for everyone.
Only metal braces can fix misalignment issues
False. Today, there are treatments like clear aligners that offer the same results as braces for mild to moderate cosmetic concerns. Ask your dentist about options like Invisalign that rely on custom trays. These trays put gentle pressure on your teeth to fix alignment concerns, and you can even remove them while eating and brushing.
Cosmetic dentistry is purely for looks
While most people see a cosmetic dentist for aesthetic issues, the benefits extend beyond that. For example, crowns can help restore the function of damaged or worn teeth. Veneers can straighten your smile, and bonding can strengthen your teeth. The kind of treatment you need will depend on the diagnosis, but cosmetic dentistry often overlaps with restorative dentistry and helps prevent risks of decay and gum disease.
Only the affluent can afford cosmetic treatments
We discussed this earlier, but let’s delve deeper. Yes, most cosmetic dentistry treatments aren’t covered by insurance, and paying from your own pocket may sound expensive. However, many clinics now have flexible payment plans, and you can choose a schedule that works for you. Smaller procedures like teeth whitening don’t even cost that much.
Takeaway
If you want to have a transformed smile, checking with a cosmetic dentist in Albany is highly recommended. Even knowing the available options allows you to make an informed choice. Make sure you consider all alternatives before you agree to a treatment. An experienced dentist will ensure your questions are answered, and you know what to expect.