Everyone has a unique smile. And cosmetic dentistry can help improve the natural beauty of your smile. However, it’s a common misconception that cosmetic dentistry in Chapel Hill, NC, is purely cosmetic. Many cosmetic treatment options have restorative and preventative benefits as well. In fact, there may be times when your dentist recommends a cosmetic treatment for a non-cosmetic need. If you have a dental concern that affects your smile line, cosmetic dentistry can often help restore your bite while also improving your smile.
The Truth about Cosmetic Dentistry in Chapel Hill, NC
Many patients may turn away from cosmetic treatment because they feel it’s unnecessary, expensive, or time-consuming. But cosmetic dentistry is often extremely beneficial for your oral health. It’s also typically more affordable and quicker than you may initially think. Once you break through the myths about cosmetic dentistry, you may find more confidence in seeking the treatment you need.
The Restorative and Preventative Benefits
Cosmetic dentistry doesn’t just improve your smile. It often helps restore your bite and makes maintaining your oral health easier. Consider, for example, Invisalign. Invisalign or other clear aligner treatments do work mainly to straighten your teeth and balance out your smile. However, there are several other benefits that come from using Invisalign. Crooked, crowded, or spaced-out teeth often lead to increased plaque buildup and a greater risk of developing decay. By straightening your smile with cosmetic treatments, you often fix food traps and other dental concerns. A straight smile not only looks better, but it could help improve your oral hygiene as well.
The Cost
Typically, cosmetic dentistry is considered more expensive than other treatments. This is often because dental insurance policies are more restrictive when it comes to cosmetic treatment. This means that many patients do have to pay out of pocket for the full cost. However, this isn’t always the case.
If cosmetic dentistry is used to restore damage or decay, you may be able to get partial coverage from your insurance company. Say, for example, you have a chipped front tooth. While you could get a dental crown to restore your bite, your dentist may recommend a veneer instead. Veneers can help restore damage while also providing greater aesthetic control. In this instance, you may be able to get some coverage for the veneer used to treat the damaged tooth.
The Scheduling
In many cases, cosmetic dentistry can be completed in two or three visits. Most of the time, you’ll need one visit to prepare your teeth and a second visit to set your cosmetic treatment. However, if you have an extensive case, you may decide to split your treatment into different phases. For example, if you wanted to both whiten your teeth and get porcelain veneers. Your dentist may recommend professional whitening first and then getting veneers so they can be color-matched to your new smile.
If you are unhappy with the look or feel of your smile, cosmetic dentistry may be able to help. Give us a call at 919.736.6175 to schedule a consultation and see if cosmetic treatment is right for you.