A: Cosmetic dentistry can not only improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, it can solve problems that cause gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss. If you have gum disease, this should be treated before any cosmetic procedures are performed. If you have teeth that are black or worn down from decay, replacing them or having them restored with crowns will strengthen them and make them fully functional. Crooked teeth that are straightened will allow you to chew without pressure on your jaws and create a good support system for the rest of your teeth. The majority of cosmetic dental procedures actually have dental health benefits as well.
A: Teeth whitening and porcelain veneers are among the few cosmetic procedures that do not offer any particular benefits to your oral health. However, all cosmetic procedures are good for your emotional health. Studies show that people notice a person’s smile first when they meet them, so having an attractive smile can make a difference in the way you feel about yourself and the way that other people perceive you.
A: Insurance may cover procedures that have cosmetic benefits if they serve a dental health purpose, such as crowns, procedures to straighten teeth or tooth replacements like dentures. At this time, dental implants are not usually covered by insurance. Teeth whitening or porcelain veneers are considered to be strictly cosmetic and are not usually covered.
A: Gum contouring can reshape the gums to make the teeth appear longer or shorter and balance the amount of gum and teeth that show when you smile.
A: Cosmetic bonding is the use of a composite resin material to reshape teeth or fill in gaps between teeth.
A: Veneers are thin wafers of porcelain that fit over the front of the teeth and change the shape or color of them.
A: Because dentists are professionals and perform tooth whitening in a controlled office environment, in-office whitening may actually be safer than using whitening products at home.
