Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ
To bring your teeth back to a beautifully whitened color, repair tooth decay with tooth-like composite fillings, bond or veneer chips, cracks and gaps, or implant a tooth to compensate for tooth loss, you’ll want to consider cosmetic dentistry. But, of course, the first consideration is the most frequently asked questions that people have about cosmetic dentistry.
1. How does cosmetic dentistry focus on the aesthetic appeal of the teeth?
Compared to traditional dental procedures, cosmetic dentistry offers aesthetic appeal because of the materials used during the procedures. Whitening solutions containing peroxide gel transform discolored teeth into attractive whitened teeth. Compared to silver metal dental fillings, composite fillings use a composite resin material that mimics the appearance of your natural tooth color. Bonding also uses a composite resin material to fill in little chips, uneven edges, cracks, grooves, and gaps. For more serious imperfections and severe tooth discolorations, veneers are comprised of laminate sheets of porcelain or composite resin to create a white well aligned smile. For tooth loss, dental implants provide strong and durable metal roots with tooth colored crowns for a permanent solution.
2. Are these treatments painful?
These treatments are not considered painful. Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity following tooth whitening. Sedation dentistry may be used to prevent discomfort during a composite filling, bonding veneer or dental implant procedure.
3. Are these treatments long lasting?
Teeth whitening may last up to six months Composite dental fillings may last seven to ten years. Bonding may last a lifetime. Porcelain veneers last 10-15 years and composite resin veneers last 5-7 years. The longevity in the results of the above mentioned procedures may be affected by lifestyle, chewing and bite habits, but can be maintained with follow up treatments for a reasonable cost. Dental implants are permanent.
4. Are these treatments expensive?
Costs for cosmetic dentistry are sensible when considering the benefits. For $400.00 or more, in-office tooth whitening can be performed. From $200.00 to $20.00, you can choose from a host of professionally dispensed and over-the-counter whitening kits that produce results over time instead of in one session with in-office whitening. Your out-of-pocket expense for composite dental fillings is roughly one half of the cost of the filling. Veneers cost between $250.00 and $2500 per tooth, depending upon the type. Dental implants range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending upon your insurance, your dentist, and the type of materials used. Dental financing is available for cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you manage the costs.
Now that you’ve gotten the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, it may be time to receive the rest of the answers that you need in order to make a well educated decision. So, perhaps, it’s time to consider a consultation with a dentist. After all, treatment can usually be complete in one to two visits and you’ll be able to enjoy wonderful results right after treatment.
If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, contact Austin Dental Spa.