You may be skeptical about some of the 'facts' you've heard about cosmetic dental services. Our dentists in Winnipeg debunk some common misconceptions.
Common Myths About Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Cosmetic dental procedures have value. However, some common myths about them persist. Today, we aim to put some of them to rest.
1. Cosmetic dental procedures have purely cosmetic value.
While 'cosmetic' may be the term used to prescribe these procedures, some of them can contribute to helping improve or restore your oral health.
For example, dental bonding can be used to change the appearance of discoloured or chipped teeth, it can also be used to protect tooth roots that have been exposed due to receding gums. Covering these roots is an integral step to restoring gum tissue - and helping bring some relief from gum sensitivity that often comes with gum disease.
We can also alter the appearance of your smile with dental implant surgery, which fills the gaps left by missing teeth. That said, implants also serve a functional purpose: to help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of position into the gap. In turn, this also helps prevent other oral health issues.
2. Cosmetic dental services are costly.
Advances in dental technology and science in recent years have made cosmetic dental services somewhat less costly than they once were. If your insurance company deems some cosmetic dental services necessary - for example dental implants or crowns - they may even be covered.
At Southwood Dental Centre, we also accept most dental insurance coverage.
3. Teeth whitening damages teeth.
When done correctly and under the supervision of your dentist, teeth whitening is considered safe, and the risk of damage to your teeth is quite low. Your dentist will evaluate your dental health before teeth whitening treatment to determine whether it can be done safely and effectively on your teeth.
4. Cosmetic dental procedures take a long time.
With today’s cosmetic dental technology, we can offer services to fit your schedule and budget. Many cosmetic dental procedures take just an hour or two and one appointment to improve the appearance of your teeth.
5. Cosmetic dental procedures are unnecessary.
Many cosmetic dental procedures, from veneers to bonding, can be used to fix long-standing dental issues. But what is 'necessary' for you depends not only on your dental health. If a cosmetic dental procedure might help increase your self-confidence and thereby your quality of life, it may indeed be necessary.
6. Cosmetic dental procedures are painful.
Our dentists strive to make every appointment as comfortable as possible. Many cosmetic procedures are minimally invasive and involve very little pain for the patient. Though your mouth may feel sensitive for a short time following some procedures, this should fade quickly.
7. Your results won’t appear natural-looking.
At Southwood Dental Centre, we use modern technology and processes to help us achieve the most natural-looking results we can for your smile. Whether you are looking into teeth whitening, veneers or another cosmetic dental procedure, ask us how we can help you reach your smile goals.