The Ultimate Guide to Cosmetic Dental Care

Cosmetic dental care has become increasingly popular as more people seek to enhance their smiles. This blog will explore the essentials of cosmetic dentistry, including common treatments, health benefits, and tips for maintaining a beautiful smile.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of ones teeth, gums, and/or overall smile. Cosmetic dentistry encompasses various procedures that can correct teeth alignment, shape, size, and color. and In turn this boosts an individual’s confidence and their smile’s overall esthetics.

The most popular cosmetic dental treatments

These relatively simple cosmetic dental treatments offer solutions for a wide range of dental imperfections and have transformed countless smiles.

Bonding

Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to repair chipped, cracked, or decayed teeth. This procedure is relatively simple and can be completed in a single visit. The resin is shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth, providing a natural look. Bonding is also used to close gaps between teeth and change their shape or color.

Cost: About $300-$600 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the repair.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at brightening teeth and removing stains caused by food, drink, smoking, and aging. Professional teeth whitening is done in a dental office using high-concentration bleaching agents for quick and effective results . At-home whitening kits are also available, offering a more gradual improvement. These kits usually include custom-made trays and a lower concentration bleaching gel.

Cost: The cost of teeth whitening varies widely depending on the type of treatment type chosen. For Professional treatments administered by a dentist the typical cost is $300-1,500 for dentist-prescribed at-home kits $100-$400, and for over-the-counter products $20-$100.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of teeth. They are custom-made to fit over teeth and are ideal for addressing issues like discoloration, worn-down teeth, and gaps. Veneers provide a durable and natural-looking solution for a flawless smile. The process typically involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth surface before bonding the veneer.

Cost: You can expect to pay between $925 and $2,500 per tooth for porcelain veneers. You could opt for composite veneers, which cost approximately $250 to $1500 per tooth. But porcelain typically lasts longer – 10-15 years as compared to 5-7 years for composite veneers. Talk to your dentist to determine the best option for your needs.

Can Cosmetic Dental Treatments Improve Health?

Cosmetic dental treatments can indeed improve health in various ways. For instance, correcting misaligned teeth can make it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene which reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, restoring chipped or cracked teeth through bonding or veneers can prevent further decay and structural damage. A healthy, attractive smile also boosts self-esteem, which can positively impact mental health and social interactions.

Best Ways to Whiten Teeth: Professional vs. At-Home

When it comes to whitening teeth, both professional and at-home methods have their advantages. Professional whitening, performed by a dentist, offers the most effective and fastest results. The procedure typically takes about an hour and half and can lighten teeth by several shades. Dentists use stronger bleaching agents and ensure the gums and other tissues are protected during the process.

At-home whitening kits are convenient and less expensive. These kits include custom trays and lower concentration gels that gradually whiten teeth over a few weeks. While not as immediate as professional whitening, at-home kits can still provide satisfactory results if used consistently.

Ask your dentist for advice before trying at-home whitening products if you’ve had restorative treatments such as bonding, veneers, crowns, and fillings in the front of your teeth or if your teeth are badly stained. Do-it-yourself whitening treatments can damage previous dental work or create unevenly colored teeth. Your dentist may also advise you not to whiten your teeth if you have gum disease, fragile dental enamel, especially sensitive teeth, or specific medical conditions.

Dangerous Ways to Whiten Teeth

Certain teeth whitening methods, popularized on platforms like TikTok, can be harmful. These include using lemon juice, baking soda, charcoal, or hydrogen peroxide in excessive amounts. Such DIY methods can erode enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. It’s essential to approach teeth whitening with caution and avoid unverified home remedies that promise quick results.

Major Cosmetic Dental Treatments: Smile Makeovers

A smile makeover is a comprehensive approach to enhancing a person’s smile. It involves multiple cosmetic dental procedures tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. Treatments in a smile makeover may include bonding, veneers, teeth whitening, crowns, and orthodontics. The process begins with a thorough consultation to assess the patient’s dental health and desired outcomes. A personalized treatment plan is then created to address various aspects of the smile, from color and alignment to overall symmetry and balance.

People might seek a smile makeover for several reasons, such as improving self-confidence, preparing for a significant event, or correcting long-standing dental issues. The ultimate goal is to achieve a harmonious, attractive smile that complements the individual’s facial features.

Keeping your smile healthy after a cosmetic treatment

Maintaining a healthy smile after undergoing cosmetic dental treatments is crucial for long-lasting results. Here are some tips to help keep your smile in top condition:

Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent cavities. Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.

Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and examinations. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing cannot.

Avoid staining foods and drinks: Limit consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other teeth staining substances. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining.

Quit smoking: Smoking can discolor teeth and increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking improves both oral and overall health. Vaping is bad for your oral health as well..

Use a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from wear and damage.

Does dental insurance typically cover cosmetic treatments?

Dental insurance typically does not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening since they are considered elective and not medically necessary. However, some insurance plans may cover a portion of cosmetic treatments if the procedure also provides restorative benefits, such as bonding or veneers for a chipped tooth. It’s essential to review your dental insurance policy and consult with your provider to understand the extent of your coverage.

Do dental savings plans cover cosmetic treatments?

Yes, dental savings plans often do offer discounts on cosmetic treatments. Plan members report saving an average of 50%* on their dental care.

You can use a dental savings plan to reduce the cost of virtually any dental procedure, at any of the thousands of participating dentists nationwide. These plans activate within 72 hours, have no annual limits, and often include savings on procedures that insurance may not cover, such as cosmetic dental care and dental implants. And while dental insurance often has deductibles and waiting periods for costly procedures, dental savings plans do not. You can start saving within 72 hours of joining a plan, sometimes even sooner.

The quickest way to find the perfect dental plan for all of your oral health needs is with our online dental plan finder — just answer a few questions and you’ll receive a personalized plan recommendation in minutes. Want a quick peek at how much you can save on your dental care right now? Use our calculator below.

*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan