Many people who want to upgrade their grins assume that cosmetic dental procedures are reserved for the rich and famous who can afford them. While this may have been true when the field was new, thanks to ongoing developments in technology, materials, and techniques, these treatments are more accessible than ever!
Continue reading to learn more about three reasons why these services continue to gain popularity and how your dentist can use them to improve your appearance!
Motivation #1: They’re Minimally Invasive
It’s natural to hesitate to schedule a procedure if you’re worried that it will be long and agonizing. Fortunately, when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, that’s not the case! Most of the services cause little to no discomfort and don’t involve complex or invasive procedures.
For instance, dental bonding can often be completed from start to finish in a single hour-long procedure and may not even require an anesthetic because it’s not overly involved. That said, some treatments require some preparation, like removing some of your enamel for veneers to fit correctly. While you might develop mild sensitivity, you shouldn’t feel sharp or persistent pain.
If you’re overly worried, have difficulty sitting still, or have a strong gag reflex, your dentist can offer sedatives to help you feel calm and relaxed throughout your appointment.
Motivation #2: They Can Improve Oral Health
Cosmetic services are intended to enhance your appearance more than address your dental well-being, but some of the treatments are pretty effective at both! For example, veneers are thin ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to mask unsightly flaws. They’re customized to be the ideal shape, shade, and size to boost your confidence in the way you look. However, they’re also coated with a glaze durable enough to resist chipping and staining, providing an additional shield to protect your pearly whites.
Not only that, but you’re more likely to brush and floss twice daily if you’ve invested in cosmetics. Cleaning your mouth consistently is recommended to maintain your dental work and preserve the results while removing plaque and bacteria contributing to tooth decay and gum disease.
Motivation #3: They’re More Affordable
Most dental insurance plans don’t include cosmetic procedures because they’re not geared towards preventing oral issues. Many patients on a budget worry that means they can’t undergo their desired treatments.
If you’re concerned about affording your dream smile, ask your dentist if they offer financial aid. Plenty of providers offer programs that can help you pay for services without breaking the bank. For instance, they might offer an in-house membership that includes additional discounts on services not traditionally covered by insurance, but without deductibles and claims paperwork. Instead, you pay a monthly fee and gain access to all the listed benefits.
You can also ask about flexible financing programs through third-party vendors, like CareCredit. If your application is approved, you can break up your final invoice into more manageable installments.
There’s no better time than now to consult with your provider about enhancing your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Kim Turnbow has 10+ years of experience helping families build and maintain their healthiest, most beautiful grins. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and commits 40 to 50 hours annually to ongoing education. She’s a valued member of the American Dental Association and earned a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. She offers a full array of services to meet all your needs conveniently under one roof. If you’re interested in cosmetic services, you can request a consultation on the website or call (830) 626-1111.