Common Misconceptions about Cosmetic Dentistry - Setting the Record Straight
One of the biggest misconceptions about cosmetic dentistry is that it is all about personal vanity. In other words, people get their teeth fixed in order to have a killer smile designed to attract people. That may be partially true, because everyone does want a killer smile. It makes you feel better about yourself and the way you present to the outside world. However there are other reasons for involved and like each procedure, they are personal and vary from person to person.
Most common misconceptions about cosmetic dentistry surround the procedures for whitening teeth. Some people shy away from whitening fearing the chemicals used may be too harsh or can cause cancer. Most whitening is done using hydrogen peroxide or carbomide peroxide, neither of which has been linked in any way to causing cancer. Yet another misconception says that teeth whitening agents used will damage tooth enamel. Early on, when the procedure was new, dentists sometimes used things to scrape off the stains and thereby whiten teeth. Now dentists use procedures that fade away the stains and dissolve discolorations rather than rub or scrape them off.
Today's cosmetic dentists want to emphasize that theirs is not your father's dental office. The dental office experience, whether it be to correct oral health or to improve the smile cosmetically, has changed dramatically with the advent of new and creative inventions and procedures. The truth of the matter is that people are either born with or acquire dental problems through life, and many of these problems are harmful enough to affect health, self-esteem, mouth, and bite, so much so that the problems must be corrected. Dental rejuvenation can knock 10 years off your appearance.
The old misconception that visits to the dentist are often painful are not true. While it may have been that way in the past, new relaxation techniques and treatments have literally taken the pain and inconvenience out of acquiring that perfect smile. Today's highly trained cosmetic dentists handle each procedure delicately, also making sure that your mouth is completely numb before commencing. If you are especially anxious, then mild sedatives are often used to relax the patient.
Another misconception is that cosmetic dentistry is very expensive. Cost does vary per procedure while also depending on the individual procedure selected. Cosmetic procedures are also usually out-of-pocket procedures because they're also elective procedures and not covered by insurance. Ask your dentist to work with you and your insurance company. Many dentists also provide financing help to help you budget through the work you want done on your smile makeover.