Cosmetic dentistry means a treatment or series of treatments that your dentist implements to enhance the appearance of your smile. Most of these options are non- or minimally invasive, and some promote better oral health.
Cosmetic dentistry options may include:
- Dental Veneers
- Professional Teeth Cleaning
- Tooth-Colored Restorations
- Dental Bonding
- Invisalign®
- Tooth Replacement
- Smile Makeovers
In this blog, we explore:
- Top Five Cosmetic Dentistry Myths
- Candidacy for Cosmetic Dentistry
- Options for Cosmetic Dentistry in Charlotte, NC
- Cosmetic Dentistry Options Promoting Improved Oral Health and Function
- Cosmetic Dentistry Maintenance and Upkeep
- Scheduling Your Consultation with Our Cosmetic Dentist in Charlotte, NC
Top 5 Cosmetic Dentistry Myths
Myth #1: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Only About Appearance
FACT: While some cosmetic dentistry options concentrate exclusively on smile beauty, others promote better oral health.
You’ll find oral health benefits in the following cosmetic dentistry options:
- Dental Implants
- Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Bonding
- Invisalign®
Myth #2: Teeth Whitening Damages Your Tooth Enamel
FACT: Professional teeth whitening in Charlotte, NC, is a safe cosmetic option because your dentist evaluates your teeth and gums before moving ahead with treatment. This ensures that our teeth whitening systems are safe for your teeth and gums.
It’s important to note that over-the-counter systems and internet fads may not be safe. When whitening your teeth, always leave it to the dentist!
Myth #3: Veneers Look Fake
FACT: Dental veneers are color- and shape-matched to look natural in the mouth. They provide you with a brighter and more symmetrical smile.
Myth #4: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Only for Celebrities and the Wealthy
FACT: In the past, cosmetic dentistry may have been exclusive to the wealthy and elite, including celebrities, models, and newscasters. Today, cosmetic dentistry is more affordable than ever before.
Some dentists, including your Charlotte dentist, also offer payment and in-office savings plans to help you budget or discount specific services. Ask a dental team member for details.
Myth #5: Cosmetic Dentistry Takes Too Much Time
FACT: The timeframe for cosmetic dentistry options varies by treatment, but most procedures are completed promptly. For example, dental bonding can be performed during a single office visit in some cases.
Your dentist will discuss the timeline of the treatment with you before starting work.
Candidacy for Cosmetic Dentistry
Not every patient is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry. In some cases, you may need pretreatments to promote candidacy, including cavity and gingivitis treatment.
Fortunately, your dentist can assess your teeth and gums to determine whether cosmetic dentistry is suitable for you. Depending on the treatments you choose, we may take a thorough health history, including a list of current medications.
This initial visit is also a great time to ask questions and share your concerns with the dentist. We’ll let you know what to expect if you proceed with treatment and how much it will cost.
Remember, if a specific treatment will not help you reach your cosmetic goals, the dentist can explain why and recommend an alternative.
Options for Cosmetic Dentistry in Charlotte, NC
- Dental Veneers: Porcelain shells that cover gummy smiles, short teeth, mild misalignment, tooth wear, and other general imperfections
- Professional Teeth Cleaning: A way to lift stubborn stains from the teeth safely and under the direction of your dentist
- Tooth-Colored Restorations: From tooth-colored fillings to same-day dental crowns in Charlotte
- Dental Bonding: An inexpensive and non-invasive way to fill chips, cracks, and other general tooth flaws
- Invisalign®: A clear aligner system that aligns teeth discreetly
- Tooth Replacement: From dental implants to dental bridges
- Smile Makeovers: Multiple treatments are used to correct a variety of smile flaws
Cosmetic Dentistry Options Promoting Improved Oral Health and Function
Some cosmetic dentistry options indeed promote better oral health and function.
For example, restorations can strengthen an at-risk tooth or restore function after root canal therapy or tooth breakage.
Likewise, tooth-colored fillings, bonding, and veneers can conceal cracks and help protect the teeth from further damage. Our holistic dentist in Charlotte can safely remove older silver fillings as well.
Tooth replacement promotes bite alignment and helps prevent additional tooth loss in the future. Some tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, also guard against jawbone loss.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that can give you a beautiful smile while aligning your bite. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss effectively, which can reduce tooth decay and bad breath.
A smile makeover considers both the health and beauty of your smile.
Talk to our dentist about how the cosmetic option you’ve chosen can help preserve your dental health.
Cosmetic Dentistry Maintenance and Upkeep
Fortunately, most modern cosmetic dentistry doesn’t require additional upkeep. However, it’s crucial to continue visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings.
For your part, be sure to brush and floss at least twice daily; after every meal is even better.
Also, never use your teeth or restorations as tools to open packages, twist off caps, or for similar purposes.
Be sure to report any oral health changes to your dentist, including sores that don’t heal, tooth sensitivity, or other concerns.
If you have a dental bridge, we recommend a floss threader and cleaning brush to keep debris from accumulating on the gums and to ensure the bridge always looks its best.
Scheduling Your Consultation with Our Cosmetic Dentist in Charlotte, NC
To learn more about our holistic approach to cosmetic dentistry or to schedule a consultation with the dentist, call us today at (704) 554-1007. Also, reach out if you have heard a potential myth and want to know the truth!
Talk to us about our third-party financing options and in-office dental savings plan.