Have you ever felt so self-conscious about your teeth that you avoided smiling with them in public? Maybe you’ve considered visiting a cosmetic dentist, but you’re worried that it will be too pricey or that the results won’t look natural. Fortunately, many of the negative connotations of cosmetic dentistry are simply rumors that have no basis in fact. Read on as we debunk five common cosmetic dentistry myths.
Myth #1: Cosmetic Dentistry Damages Your Teeth
Your dentist’s top priority will always be the health of your smile. They take great care to perform cosmetic procedures without harming your teeth. Yes, some cosmetic treatments, like veneers or crowns, permanently alter your teeth. However, they can last for years, possibly even decades, if you maintain good oral hygiene.
Myth #2: The Procedures Only Offer Aesthetic Benefits
Some cosmetic procedures, such as dental crowns, actually overlap with restorative dentistry. This means that in addition to improving your smile’s appearance, they also provide health benefits. In the case of a crown, it can shield a tooth from damage that would eventually require a more extensive procedure, like a root canal.
Myth #3: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Expensive
Cosmetic services are usually considered elective, so they often are not covered by dental insurance. However, there may be exceptions, such as if the procedure also offers restorative benefits. Most dentists also provide other options of helping you afford your new smile, such as third-party financing or an in-house dental savings plan.
Myth #4: Braces Are the Only Way to Fix Crooked Teeth
Believe it or not, you don’t have to wear metal brackets and wires to achieve a straight smile. If you only have a few slightly crooked teeth, placing veneers over them might be enough. More severe orthodontic problems can often be fixed with clear aligners. These see-through plastic trays shift your teeth into their desired positions without onlookers even noticing!
Myth #5: Your Results Will Look Fake
New technologies and techniques in the dental field allow your treatment to look perfectly natural. These days, dentists use lifelike materials that can be customized to mimic the exact color, size, and shape of your natural pearly whites to guarantee seamless results.
Don’t let these rumors keep you from achieving the attractive smile you deserve. Your cosmetic dentist can answer all the questions you may have to ensure you’re confident about your treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Dalton Hunt is an experienced cosmetic dentist in Raleigh, NC. Ever since earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville, she has extensively pursued advanced dental training. Her passion is cosmetic dentistry, including veneers and clear aligners. She loves forming relationships with her patients and educating them about maintaining brilliant, healthy smiles. If you’d like to hear her debunk even more cosmetic dentistry myths, you can contact her practice at (919) 787-0355.