Though a lot of people are meticulous about their oral and dental health, very few consider undergoing aesthetic dental treatments and procedures. Most of the apprehension towards cosmetic dentistry stems from the myths circulating out there that put it in a negative light.
It's those myths and rumors that prevent individuals who are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth from achieving the smile of their dreams.
Below are some of the common myths about cosmetic dentistry and why you shouldn’t believe them.
Cosmetic dentistry is only for the rich and famous
People used to view cosmetic dentistry as an unaffordable luxury exclusive to those who have the money to spare. That, however, is not the case anymore. Along with the fast technological advancements in the field came a substantial drop in the costs of the procedures.
To make cosmetic dentistry even more affordable, many dental practices are also offering financing or payment plans to their patients. If you have dental insurance, you should also look into whether or not your policy covers restorative procedures like tooth implants.
The variety of available payment options nowadays makes it possible for people from all walks of life to meet their treatment expenses.
Professional teeth whitening is a waste of money
Who doesn’t want radiant, white teeth, right?
Tooth staining is a common dental problem, especially among people with vices and habits detrimental to oral health. And while some stains are darker and more stubborn than others, cosmetic professional dental whitening can get rid of them all.
The thing is, many are led to believe that over-the-counter products are just as effective as in-office whitening procedures, which could not be further from the truth. For one, at-home-kits do not contain as much chemicals and bleaching agents. Also, the treatment is not customized to the severity of the staining.
You cannot rely on store-bought products to deliver the same results as professional-grade treatments. If you want satisfactory and long-lasting results, skip the do-it-yourself route and head to a cosmetic dentist near you.
In-office teeth whitening treatments make your teeth weaker.
This is another widespread myth that has discouraged many people from getting professional teeth whitening.
To set the record straight, all teeth whitening products – whether they’re bought over-the-counter or used in professional procedures – contain hydrogen peroxide. This chemical is safe for use on the teeth, even more so when administered by a dentist.
In fact, you actually run a higher risk of damaging the tooth’s enamel if you choose to do it at home with whitening kits. Because store-bought products are weaker and less effective, you’ll be tempted to use them for longer, which can be harmful to your teeth.
Your teeth will end up looking fake or unnatural
If you think that cosmetic dental procedures like bonding, implants, and veneers will result in fake-looking teeth, you better think again.
Reliable and experienced cosmetic dentists combine medical proficiency with skill and artistry. They work with quality materials and sophisticated equipment in custom-designing your teeth for natural-looking results.
The procedures are going to be very painful
Many people have this impression that cosmetic dentistry is horribly painful. What they don't know is that sedation dentistry has come a long way, making dental procedures an almost pain-free experience.
Your dentist may recommend different levels of sedation based on the type of treatment and your pain tolerance. In the case of invasive procedures, there are prescription medications that you can take afterward to prevent discomforts and make the healing process more manageable.
Is it the fear of pain that’s keeping you from better teeth and smile? Well now, you can kiss your worries goodbye!
While there may be a few cosmetic dentistry horror stories out there, the only way that the same could happen to you is if you don't to the right clinic.