Affordable Dental Procedures to Dramatically Improve Your Smile

September 08, 2022, Blue Turtle Dental Palo Alto Dentists

A nice smile often goes a long way when it comes to first impressions. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) reports that 74% of people think having an uninviting smile can impede career success. A beautiful smile can also improve your chances of feeling good about yourself.

Cosmetic dental procedures' primary objective is to restore your stunning smile. As people's awareness of their physical appearance grows, so does the popularity of cosmetic dental procedures. As your Redwood City dentist will tell you, this type of dentistry is not reserved just for the rich.

Here is a post covering some affordable cosmetic dentistry procedures that will bring back your beautiful, youthful smile. 
 

Teeth whitening
Pearly white smiles are not only meant for celebrities. If you feel that your smile lacks some sparkle or your teeth look more yellow than they used to, teeth whitening can help.
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures in the United States. According to an AACD survey, 58% of respondents confirmed that they have had teeth whitened.

A teeth whitening procedure can vary in cost, depending on the type of treatment and location of the dental office. An in-office treatment, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, costs around $650. At Blue Turtle Dental, we have a teeth whitening special for only $450.00! Over-the-counter whitening products are less expensive than the in-office option but not as effective.

Professional teeth whitening with your Redwood City dentist can have impressive results that last longer than if you use at-home whitening products.
 

Dental bonding
Bonding is a procedure performed to fix cracked or chipped teeth or treat teeth that require filling. The bonding material is usually made of a composite resin that mirrors porcelain and is regarded as the most budget-friendly dental restoration option. The good thing is that this material can be dyed to resemble your teeth's natural color. According to Authority Dental, a standard bonding procedure would range between $300 and $600 per tooth.
 

Teeth contouring
If your teeth have minor flaws, such as small chips or irregular shape, contouring offers a cost-effective solution. This dental procedure entails reshaping your teeth to make them more aesthetically appealing. When performing dental contouring, Redwood City dentists will mark the areas that require shaping and carefully use a sanding instrument to bring about the desired changes.

The American Cosmetic Dentistry puts the price of a teeth contouring procedure between $50 and $300 per tooth.
 

Retainer
Braces are not necessary for everyone who has crooked or misaligned teeth. However, for those who have had braces, retainers come in handy after treatment to prevent the teeth from moving out of position. In other words, retainers are usually prescribed after orthodontic treatment (like braces) to maintain your bite and keep your teeth in place after they have been corrected or reshaped.

Retainers can cost anywhere between $100 and $500 per set. But note that depending on your dentist and location, dental retainer costs can surpass this estimate. 

Another alternative to braces would be an aligner. It's a clear mouthpiece that fits snugly over the teeth, aiming to straighten or push them into place. Aligners, though, cost more than retainers. At Blue Turtle Dental, we have a limited time Invisalign clear aligner special for only $4,150.00.

Professional teeth cleaning

Some people confuse teeth cleaning with teeth whitening. The main objective of teeth whitening is to remove tooth stains and discoloration. On the other hand, teeth cleaning remove plaque and tartar from the teeth's surface. This procedure minimizes your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Unhealthy gums and cavities may hinder a person's desire to smile. So, don't wait for tooth decay and gum disease to ruin your smile, while a professional dental cleaning procedure can help. Always go for the best dental care in Redwood City; after all, professional teeth cleaning costs only about $100. Be advised that there can be additional procedures you may be expected to pay for depending on your condition.

Will my dental insurance cover cosmetic treatments?
Cosmetic dentistry is generally intended to enhance your teeth's appearance, and this procedure is typically done for personal preference rather than health reasons. Thus, obtaining dental insurance to pay for cosmetic procedures depends on your insurance plan.

That said, while procedures like gum contouring and teeth whitening are rarely covered by insurance, some procedures can be classified as medical benefits, like crowns and bonding.

Affordable dental procedures for a better smile
There are plenty of affordable dental procedures you can undergo to enhance your smile. Remember, though, that your first step to a great smile is to book a consultation with a dentist to discuss your choices. All the best as you try to find a solution that leaves you with a smile you feel confident about. 

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