Cosmetic dentistry has increasingly grown in popularity, with more and more people looking for ways to improve their smiles. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), 99% of Americans view a smile as a valuable asset.
And it’s easy to see why! A perfect smile:
- Helps improve your appearance
- Boosts your self-confidence
- Improves your social life
- Helps you overcome trauma
- Is it good for your career
With these benefits, it’s no wonder a vast majority of Americans are opting for cosmetic dentistry to capitalize on the magic of their smile.
Panacea Dental offers comprehensive cosmetic dentistry services in Libertyville. Our team of professionals uses advanced dental technology to enhance your smile and confidence. What cosmetic dentistry treatment should you choose? How do you find the perfect solution?
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of orthodontics that focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile and teeth. Many different procedures fall under the cosmetic dentistry umbrella, from teeth whitening to dental bonding and composite fillings.
How to Find the Perfect Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment for Your Smile
Now that you understand cosmetic dentistry, how do you find the best treatment for your smile? Follow these steps.
- Understand the Various Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments Available
Cosmetic dentistry is more than just a simple teeth whitening procedure. As mentioned, many different procedures can be used to improve the appearance of your smile. Popular cosmetic dentistry treatments to consider include:
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure where a dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to your teeth to repair damage. It’s a cosmetic dentistry treatment used to enhance your smile.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular procedure used to make the surface of the teeth appear lighter. It can be done at home or on the dentist’s chair and can significantly improve the quality of your smile.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a surgically-placed medical device that replaces a missing tooth. These implants are also fitted with a crown to create a naturally-looking replacement for the missing tooth.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made shells fitted over your teeth’ front surfaces. Veneers are usually made from porcelain or resin and can be used to correct a number of aesthetic concerns, such as stains, chips, or gaps.
Invisalign Braces
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces. It uses clear, plastic aligners to straighten teeth over time, producing an improved smile.
- Consider Your Specific Needs
Once you understand the various cosmetic dentistry treatments available, consider the options that align with your needs.
If you want to improve your smile, you can choose teeth whitening, dental implants, and dental veneers. If you want to strengthen your teeth, you can go with braces.
- Evaluate Your Budget
Consider your budget before settling on any cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Some smile makeover treatments, like teeth whitening, are quite affordable and will set you back around $500. Others, like veneers, are pretty expensive, and you can expect to pay between $900 and $2,900 per tooth.
- Consider Long Term Maintenance
When choosing a cosmetic dentistry treatment option, it’s important to consider the long-term maintenance involved.
Some procedures require more frequent follow-ups and regular visits to the dentist, while others require low maintenance and last long term.
For example, dental implants last for 20+ years and require little maintenance. Teeth whitening, on the other hand, lasts 6 – 12 months, with touch-up treatments as needed.
Discuss with your dentist the maintenance requirements. Besides maintenance, evaluate the pros and cons of each procedure to ensure you fully understand the treatment you’re opting for.
- Find a Cosmetic Dentist Near You
Once you’ve settled on the type of cosmetic dentistry you want, it’s time to consult a dentist. Here are some of the things to look for when choosing a cosmetic dentist.
- Education and experience
- Reputation
- Personalized treatment plan
- Aesthetics
- Flexible financing options
Additionally, visit online review sites to see what others say about the dentist. If everything checks out, plan to visit them and start your smile makeover journey with them.
At Panacea Dental, we strive to make your dental experience as pleasant and relaxing as possible. Get in touch with us today or schedule an appointment!
