Cosmetic dentistry is a specialized area in the field of dentistry that aims to enhance the appearance of your teeth. This includes but isn’t limited to whitening, crown replacement, dental bonding, veneers, and the like.
Apart from their promising outcome, these procedures also have restorative and practical benefits. For instance, tooth replacement can help improve the function of your teeth and rebuild your confidence to smile fully again.
Essentials Prior To Your Smile Makeover
With your dentist’s approval and guidance, you’ve finally made up your mind to have your teeth whitened or your crooked teeth fixed. However, whether you’re doing this to boost your confidence or to restore your damaged front tooth, there are a few factors to take into account.
To show you, consider the following before you have your smile makeover:
Ask For The Payment Options
Generally, dental cosmetics are quite expensive. While they’ve been regarded as affordable for many clients, dental clinics can have varying prices for each service. For instance, a veneers cost can differ from one specialist to another.
With this in mind, it’s important to explore your options. If you have insurance, look for dental offices that accept your type of financial aid. Typically, most costly dental procedures can carry insurance packages in their payment methods to encourage clients to avail them. Hence, make sure to consult your prospective dental clinic regarding this.
Look For A Credible, Competent Dentist
Similar to other doctors, dentists specialize in certain services. For instance, if you’re about to have dental implants, you need to work with an oral surgeon as this is already out of the general dentist’s specialty.
If you already see a general dentist regularly, he or she can recommend you to reputable colleagues who can help you with your specific concern. However, if you know no one, you can call and consult your insurance provider for a list of potential dentists.
When it comes to looking for the most suitable dentist, make sure to review their credentials, qualifications, experience, client feedback, and the like from reliable resources. This can help you get a glimpse of their expertise and reputation within the niche.
Moreover, identify the length of time they’ve been practicing in the field, where they trained, their other specialties, and other crucial information. Take note that this professional is going to deal with your damaged teeth. You wouldn’t want to encounter more problems after the procedure.
As you finalize your shortlist, you can visit the dentist’s clinic and speak to them before signing any waiver and/or contract. Ask them questions regarding the length of posttreatment, the cost, the possible outcomes, etc. Keep in mind that knowledge is power, especially with your oral health.
Evaluate The Current Health Of Your Gums
Before proceeding to any kind of dental service, your dentist will have to examine your teeth’ durability. Commonly, your dentist will take X-rays to assess your teeth, gums, and jawbone health. They need to be in good condition for you to be a candidate for a certain procedure.
With this in mind, it’s important to protect your teeth and practice proper dental care by flossing, brushing your teeth, chewing food properly, using mouth guards during physical activities, etc. This is to prevent the appearance of oral conditions and certain periodontal illnesses that can cause decay and sensitivity, postponing your cosmetic procedure.
Moreover, you need to listen to your doctor’s instructions and advice before the surgery. Depending on your X-ray results, you may have to undergo required oral treatments or procedures, such as tooth extractions, to ensure the success of your smile makeover.
Look Into Other Available Options
With advancements in cosmetic dentistry, you can now choose among the many available, suitable solutions for your oral concern. For instance, if your dental problem isn’t clinically severe, your dentist may advise you of other affordable and quick remedies. Instead of opting for a veneer procedure to whiten your teeth, your dentist may recommend effective teeth whitening products.
Moreover, if you have missing teeth that affect your confidence to smile, your dentist may recommend using dentures. Dentures are great as they’re noninvasive compared to dental implants. Nonetheless, if your oral situation requires implants, your dentist will advise you to have it.
The bottom line is it’s worth exploring your options and see if there are quick and effective alternatives to your dental concern.
Final Thoughts
With the recent developments in cosmetic dentistry and their availability in most clinics, treatments and procedures have become more accessible to patients. While you may tend to get too excited for your smile makeover, it’s important to take into account your budget, current oral health, and other options. By consulting the considerations above, you can ensure that what you’ve invested will be worth every dime.
