While dental imperfections can be found in many individuals, some may not even want to consider getting cosmetic dentistry. There are numerous reasons for this, from the fear of being looked upon as vain to the many myths surrounding cosmetic dentistry. Indeed, the practice has come a long way, and advancements in technology have made it far superior now than it used to be. Let’s take a look at 8 myths surrounding cosmetic dentistry today.
Results Will Not Look Natural
This myth may have been a fact many years ago, but technology has made it possible to produce high-quality materials that look very much like real teeth. Porcelain veneers, for example, can be made in an array of colors that can closely match the shade of your natural teeth. The results can look natural and people are usually unable to tell if you’ve had cosmetic dentistry unless you tell them.
Teeth Whitening Causes Damage
If you use at-home teeth whitening kits, then this myth can be partly true. The ingredients in these kits can be harsh and damage your teeth and gums if used incorrectly. However, whitening procedures done at the dentist are safer than these over-the-counter products. They usually provide faster results too because a dentist can take a good look at your teeth and provide customized whitening solutions.
Major Procedures are Always Involved
Not every cosmetic dental procedure involves sedation dentistry or even local anesthesia. There are simple cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening and dental bonding, which are painless. It all depends on how much alteration is required and the type of alteration you are looking at.
Crowns Don’t Need Maintenance
Whether it is crowns or dental veneers, there is some form of maintenance involved, just as much as looking after your natural teeth. You need to brush your teeth regularly, floss, and visit the dentist at least twice a year. Otherwise, you can still get cavities, both in your other teeth and in the tooth under the crown. This not only gives you additional dental problems but also reduces the lifespan of your crown.
Cosmetic Dentistry is Expensive
Restorative dentistry is covered by most insurance companies to some extent. Some cosmetic procedures are really simple and require only a single dentist visit, and therefore will not cost much. Others, like those involving extensive procedures and a greater number of teeth, can get costly. It depends on the type of cosmetic dentistry you get.
It Weakens the Teeth
Your dentist will let you know if any of the procedures you have chosen will compromise the health of your teeth, which is still the priority. Discuss your treatment options with your dentist for the best solutions that do not weaken your teeth.
Gummy Smiles Can’t Be Fixed
Gum contouring can help with a gummy smile. This process removes a small amount of gum tissue. Sometimes, gummy smiles also come with other issues like tooth gaps. You can opt for multiple solutions, where possible, for the perfect smile.
There’s No Uniqueness
People do not all look the same after a cosmetic procedure. Many options in cosmetic dentistry can be customized to your needs and you can decide the results you want, making it a unique solution for you.