Connection Dentistry Raleigh Blog

4 Questions to Ask When Determining if You’re a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry

December 16, 2024

woman smiling while dentist uses shade guide

While the health of your smile is the priority, its appearance can be just as important because of how impactful it can be when making a first impression. This is why dentists offer cosmetic dentistry – to actively cover up imperfections with one-of-a-kind solutions. But it is right for everyone? To find out whether you’re a good candidate for treatment, here are four questions to ask.

Are You Unhappy with Your Smile?

If you’re unhappy with the way your smile looks, there’s a good chance you’ll be a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry. A consultation with a trusted dentist is essential if you want to change your appearance, so they’ll use advanced technologies to pinpoint chips, cracks, stains, discoloration, gaps, misshapen teeth, misalignment, and other flaws.

If they believe these problem areas are justifiable enough to move forward with cosmetic dentistry, you can expect to make it through the first phase.

Are You in Good Health?

Before starting any kind of cosmetic dental treatment, you can expect your dentist to evaluate your oral and overall health. Imperfections are one thing – poor oral health is another.

If signs of cavities or gum disease show up during an examination of your teeth and gums, you can expect to be recommended for additional treatment. This will allow your dentist to improve the health of your smile before working to change its aesthetics.

What Kind of Treatment Do You Want?

There are many different types of cosmetic treatments available, so determining which one is right for your smile may require collaborating with your dentist. Some of the most common and popular options include:

  • Veneers
  • Lumineers
  • Metal-Free Dental Restorations
  • Dental Bonding
  • Teeth Whitening
  • Smile Makeover

Do You Want to Invest in Cosmetic Dentistry?

It’s no secret that most dental insurance companies will not cover the cost of cosmetic care. Unless there is a unique circumstance (i.e., metal-free restoration for a damaged tooth), you’ll be expected to pay a different way for the services you receive. Fortunately, many dental offices offer flexible financing or even an in-house savings plan.

However, investing in cosmetic dentistry is oftentimes not just about the cost. The transformation you receive will do more than improve your aesthetics. It will also positively affect your mental and emotional well-being because when you see yourself in the mirror, you’ll begin to feel more confident in yourself.

This can open many doors for you professionally as well as help you fully embrace who you are and how you approach life.

Don’t assume cosmetic dentistry is only for those who are rich and famous or who have extensive smile imperfections. If you want to change something about your teeth, find a dentist who can help you decide which treatment option is right for you.

About the Author
Dr. Brandon Rensch is a cosmetic dentist in Raleigh who has extensive training and experience providing one-of-a-kind smiles and transformations. After graduating from the Creighton University School of Dentistry, he has gone on to complete more than 100 hours of continuing education and is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry among others. Offering an array of aesthetic services, he and the team at Connection Dentistry can revitalize flawed appearances, turning them into beautiful works of art. If you’re curious whether you are a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry, contact us at (919) 787-0355.

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Flat white toy tooth on a light blue surface with a small gold crown above it

Even those who diligently brush and floss their teeth twice daily can have dental problems. Unfortunately, cavities can form in places that are difficult to see or reach, like between two teeth or behind your molars, and progress untreated.

This can lead to severely decayed, damaged, or infected teeth. Fortunately, your dentist can preserve and restore their functionality with a fully customized dental crown. However, you might avoid this procedure if you’re scared it will hurt. Continue reading to learn more about the process of being fitted with one of these prosthetics so you can set your mind at ease!

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A man sitting at a table holding his jaw from tooth pain.

Sometimes you just know when you’re in an emergency. Whether it’s smoke coming from your vehicle, or you’ve fallen on ice and can’t move your arm, many urgent situations are obvious. But when it comes to your teeth, how can you tell if you’re experiencing a dental emergency, or if you should just wait it out until your next, regularly scheduled dentist appointment? Here’s a helpful guide to help determine when it’s time to see the dentist: stat.

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A woman suffering a common dental emergency

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Emergency Kit Construction: 5 Helpful Things to Include

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A red case with a white cross next to a large model tooth on a white surface

Though you might try, it’s impossible to anticipate when or how a dental emergency will occur. You might suddenly develop a severe or persistent toothache or suffer an injury that chips, breaks, or even fully dislodges a tooth.

When you’re in an urgent situation, it’s essential to act quickly to preserve your smile. An emergency kit equipped with everything you need can protect your pearly whites until you arrive at your dentist’s office. If you don’t already have one put together, continue reading to learn more about five helpful things to include so you’re prepared for the unexpected!

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