When many patients go to the dentist, it’s because they have some kind of pain or infection. Insurance companies also don’t cover cosmetic treatments, so it’s no wonder that many patients still don’t know about the benefits that cosmetic dentistry can offer. Some have even begun to spread myths about the treatments in the absence of information
If you want to dispel the rumors and learn the truth about seven of these myths, continue reading.
Myth 1: Cosmetic Treatments Aren’t for Health Purposes
Don’t let the name fool you, just because some treatments are considered “cosmetic” doesn’t mean they don’t have major health benefits.
For example, dental implants can stop bone loss due to a missing tooth. Veneers and dental bonding have the potential to fix bite issues.
Myth 2: Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits are the Same as Professional Ones
While the over-the-counter kits may use the same whitening agent, hydrogen peroxide, there is no comparison between the two. Professional teeth whitening kits and in-office treatments from your dentist use higher concentrations of the chemical and offer better results.
Myth 3: Cosmetic Dentistry Weakens Your Teeth
Some cosmetic treatments like veneers require some of the enamel of your teeth to be removed so that they sit flat, but this doesn’t weaken the tooth. The enamel is replaced with a hard porcelain shell that is resistant to damage and erosion.
Some patients experience tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening treatments, but the sensation is temporary. It usually fades within a day or two.
Myth 4: Cosmetic Treatments Are Too Expensive
While cost is relative for every patient, some cosmetic treatments that are considered “restorative” are covered by insurance. In addition, many dentist offices utilize payment plans either through the office itself or through third-party companies that offer low-to-no-cost repayments.
Dental technology has advanced to make materials easier to acquire and make the processes more accurate. This also cuts costs by making processes easier for your dentist with fewer errors.
Myth 5: Cosmetic Dental Treatments are Surgical
There are very few cosmetic treatments that require surgery. Most of them are minimally invasive, allowing you to have them done in only a couple of visits with little to no downtime on your part.
Dental implants require surgery, but teeth whitening, cosmetic dental bonding, and veneers do not.
Myth 6: Dental Crowns Don’t Require Brushing
This is false. Whenever your tooth is restored with a dental crown, it will need to be brushed just like any of your other teeth. Decay can still eat away at the edges of your tooth around the crown and can even cause it to fall out if left alone.
Myth 7: Cosmetic Treatments Look Fake
The whole point of cosmetic dentistry is to make the treatments blend into your natural smile. Your dentist wouldn’t let you leave the office with something you were unhappy with. The customization of your teeth is in your hands.
Cosmetic dentistry can improve your smile and your health, but there’s a lot of information on the internet, and not all of it is from experts. Be wary when you see a new piece of information online, especially when it comes to your oral health. Talk to your dentist to help you separate good information from bad.
About the Author
Dr. Ted Dunson has been practicing dentistry for over 25 years. He received his dental doctorate at Baylor College of Dentistry, earning an award for cosmetic excellence. Since then he has continued to expand his knowledge in all types of dentistry through preceptorships. To date, Dr. Dunson has completed over a hundred cosmetic treatments including many full-mouth restorations. To schedule a cosmetic consultation, call (940) 566-4942 or visit the website to learn more.