Cosmetic dental surgery has been on the rise lately, fast becoming the new cosmetic craze. But what is cosmetic dentistry and what does it involve? Here’s what you need to know before taking the plunge with your pearly whites…
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Simply put, cosmetic dentistry is any dental treatment that involves altering the teeth for cosmetic purposes – this can include teeth whitening, teeth straightening and general teeth improvements like caps and veneers.
What are the associated costs?
Let’s not beat around the bush – cosmetic dentistry can be extremely expensive, especially if you want long-lasting, quality results. Depending on the procedure you want done, costs can vary dramatically – from as little as a few hundred dollars for a one-off teeth whitening treatment to tens of thousands of dollars for a full set of porcelain veneers. Your cosmetic dentist can discuss the costs specific to your treatment during an initial consultation, to help you decide if it’s the right method for you.
Is it painful?
With the advancements of technology in modern dentistry, going to the dentist has never been more painless. While most cosmetic dentistry procedures require you to have your mouth open for long periods of time (such as during fittings for braces), which can be extremely uncomfortable – they are otherwise generally pain-free and will not require any healing time after the treatment.
Where can I go to have a cosmetic dental treatment?
You should only ever go to a certified cosmetic dentist who has been formally accredited with the Australian Dental Association. If you are unsure if a particular dentist has been accredited, check out: www.ada.org.au.
How do I know if I need treatment?
The best way to get started is to visit your dentist for a thorough check-up. Your dentist will be able to examine your teeth to ascertain whether a cosmetic dental procedure is suitable for you and recommend an appropriate method of treatment and a certified cosmetic dental specialist that’s right for you.
I got veneers put on my front teeth but it was more because I was grinding my teeth down than for cosmetic purposes. My teeth look great now compared to what they used to.