5 Myths You Should Never Believe About Cosmetic Dentistry

A great smile makes a great first impression. However, if you’re insecure about your teeth, smiling can feel like a chore rather than a pleasure.

If you’re a little insecure about your teeth, you’re not alone. 32% of people say they’re “concerned by the look of their teeth”. If you aren’t thrilled with your smile, you can always visit a cosmetic dentist and get some work done.

Now, there are people who are hesitant about getting cosmetic dental procedures done because they don’t know what they entail. There are also people who believe in all the myths that surround cosmetic dental procedures. However, those myths shouldn’t be believed, since they aren’t entirely accurate.

Here are five myths you should never believe about cosmetic dentistry, and why it’s important to do your research before making any final decisions.

Myth 1: Cosmetic Dentistry Involves A Lot Of Major Procedures

Some people believe that visiting a cosmetic dentist means they’re signing up for a major procedure. That’s simply not the case.

It’s common for people to look into bonding, veneers, and Invisalign when they visit a cosmetic dentist. Usually, a patient can get these procedures done in one visit. The same thing goes for teeth whitening, another common procedure in cosmetic dentistry.

While these procedures generally don’t require any major operation, be sure to ask your dentist what each procedure does entail so you know what to expect.

Myth 2: Cosmetic Dentistry Is Painful

One of the biggest myths surrounding cosmetic dentistry is that it’s painful. Patients may experience some discomfort when undergoing a procedure, but thanks to technological advances, most procedures are relatively pain-free.

Your cosmetic dentist will tell you what to expect when you get a certain procedure done. If it sounds like it may be too much for you to handle, you can always talk to them about alternative options.

Myth 3: Cosmetic Dentistry Won’t Help Your Overall Dental Health

Despite what some believe, cosmetic dentistry can improve your overall dental health. Bacteria can fester in the gaps between teeth. Too much bacteria in your mouth can lead to tooth decay, and eventually, tooth loss.

Getting your teeth straightened will help your overall oral health. Whitening your teeth will help your oral health, too. If you get your teeth whitened, you may be more inclined to keep your teeth clean and in good shape. If you get veneers, you’ll want to keep them as clean as possible. You’ll brush them twice a day, and avoid any foods or drinks that could stain them.

In the end, getting a cosmetic dental procedure done could be the best thing you do for your overall oral health. You’ll want your investment to last, which means you’ll take extra good care of your teeth.

Myth 4: All Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures Are Expensive

Visiting a cosmetic dentist and getting a procedure done will not bankrupt you. In fact, some procedures may be covered by your dental insurance. Check with your insurance company about what they classify as a restorative procedure, and how much of that procedure they will cover.

If you do need a costly cosmetic dental procedure done, but can’t provide all the money upfront, talk to your cosmetic dentist and the office staff. They will layout the payment options for you. If the office allows it, you may even have the option to pay your balance off with monthly payments.

Myth 5: Cosmetic Dentistry Won’t Have Lasting Results

One of the most common myths surrounding cosmetic dental work is that it doesn’t last. This is pretty far from the truth.

Veneers are estimated to last between 10 and 20 years, while crowns can last between five and 15 years. Tooth bonding is estimated to last 10 years, and those who get their teeth whitened professionally may see the results for three to 10 years. If you want the results to last longer, make sure you take incredibly good care of your teeth after your procedure. The better you take care of your oral health, the longer your results will last.

Many people undergo cosmetic dental procedures to get the smile they’ve always wanted. However, the myths that surround cosmetic dentistry can stall them from going through with it. That’s why it’s important for prospective patients to do their research and learn the truth about the cosmetic dental procedure they desire. The more educated someone is, the more able they will be to make a final decision about their cosmetic dental needs.