Debunking Common Myths About Cosmetic Dentistry

A flawed smile affects more than oral health – it affects your confidence too. It can make you feel self-conscious every time you speak or laugh, especially around new faces. Despite this, many people don’t want to consider cosmetic dentistry due to the misconceptions surrounding the practice. While some of them may have been true at one point, advancements in the field have turned them into pure fallacies. Read on as we debunk six common cosmetic dentistry myths that still linger today.

It’s Only for Cosmetic Purposes

Cosmetic dentistry is for more than just enhancing your appearance. There are several ways it can improve or restore your oral health too! Many treatments (i.e., dental veneers and crowns) can prevent discomfort, bone loss, enamel erosion, and tooth decay. So, while an aesthetically pleasing smile is certainly one benefit, these procedures can also protect your teeth from further damage.

Cosmetic Treatment Can Weaken Your Teeth

Let’s get one thing straight – cosmetic dentists wouldn’t perform these procedures if it meant putting your oral health at risk. A healthy smile, no matter how it looks, is always of utmost importance. Sacrificing the strength of your teeth for the sake of aesthetics is not an option for dentists. That’s why consultations are such a critical part of the process. They allow your cosmetic dentist to examine your mouth and recommend procedures that are best for you.

It’s Expensive

Thanks to modern technology and materials, cosmetic procedures are more affordable than ever before! Some may even be covered (to varying extents) by insurance companies if they’re considered restorative. Plus, most dental offices offer ample financing options to make bills much more manageable.

The Results Won’t Look or Feel Natural

That might have been true a long time ago, but not anymore. Cosmetic dentistry has advanced significantly over the years, resulting in materials that look exactly like natural teeth. Your dentist can design treatments that compliment your facial structure perfectly, giving you a natural-looking and beautiful new smile. In fact, most people might not even notice you’ve had cosmetic dental work done!

Cosmetic Dentistry Involves Major Procedures and Changes

Although some procedures do require the use of local anesthesia, most require little to none of it. For example, teeth whitening and dental bonding are two quick, painless treatments that don’t drastically change your teeth. Conversely, crowns are a bit more involved as they restore your smile rather than provide mere enhancements.

Any Dentist Can Do Cosmetic Work

Not every dentist is qualified to perform cosmetic procedures, as additional training and courses are required to pursue this field in dentistry. Before moving forward with treatment, research your dentist to ensure they’re an expert and have a good reputation in the cosmetic field.

Cosmetic dentistry has changed a lot over the decades, turning once-truths into pure myths. But there’s one thing that remains the same after all this time – the goal to help patients attain healthy, beautiful smiles!

About the Author

Dr. Darrick Castleberry is a Houston native who completed his residency with the United States Navy At the prestigious Las Vegas Institute, he extensively studied how to create flawless, natural-looking grins using various cosmetic dental treatments. If you’re ready to make the smile of your dreams a reality, visit our website or call (281) 320-9600 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Castleberry.