The Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a dental specialization aimed at improving the appearance of a person’s teeth and their smile. While most cosmetic dentistry procedures are straightforward and do not require surgery, other treatment options do. Follow us as we discuss some of these procedures and the pros and cons of cosmetic dentistry.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of cosmetic dentistry?

Before getting into the pros and cons of cosmetic dentistry, it is important to learn about the services offered, which include:

Teeth whitening

This is a procedure for people who want to restore their teeth to their original whiteness. The procedure is more effective when it is done in a dentist’s office because the dentist uses a concentrated bleaching agent that allows them to whiten the teeth quickly. The dentist applies the gel onto the surface of the teeth and repeats this process once or twice until the teeth have reached the desired whiteness.

Some patients prefer to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their home, so instead of getting the whitening done at the dentist’s office, they can request a customized whitening tray from the dentist for use at home. However, since the bleaching agent in the tray is not as concentrated as the one the dentist uses in the office, the treatment takes up to two weeks to complete.

Advantages of teeth whitening

  • Plenty of options to choose from
  • Not too expensive
  • Non-invasive
  • Treatment does not take too long

Disadvantages of teeth whitening

  • Can cause sensitivity in the teeth
  • The patient has to avoid certain foods so the teeth do not get stained

Bonding

This procedure is used to fix problems like broken, chipped, decayed and misshapen teeth. The dentist uses composite resin materials that can be tooth colored to fix the problems patients have with their teeth by applying it over the affected area before shaping and polishing it to blend in with the rest of the teeth.

Advantages of bonding

  • It fixes superficial problems with the teeth
  • The procedure is completed in one visit
  • It is relatively affordable

Disadvantages of bonding

  • The resin material is not very durable
  • They stain over time

Dental crowns

These are used to fix broken or cracked teeth, protect teeth from infection and to hold artificial teeth in place if they are being used for dental bridges. A dental crown is fitted over a tooth that has been damaged by shaving off part of the affected tooth so it can fit tightly. It also prevents the tooth from further wear and infection. The procedure takes either one or multiple visits to the dentist depending on the type of technology the dentist uses.

Advantages of dental crowns

  • They last long
  • They look natural
  • Prevent further wear on tooth
  • Protect teeth from infection

Disadvantages of dental crowns

  • Requires the drilling of healthy areas
  • Can lead to gum recession and tooth sensitivity
  • Might not be covered by insurance

Conclusion

Every cosmetic dentistry procedure has both advantages and disadvantages, but none of them outweigh the improvement in the appearance of the teeth and the confidence that it builds. Since these are just a few of the treatments offered by cosmetic dentists, make sure you ask your dentist about the pros and cons of any cosmetic dentistry procedure you may want to undergo.

Request an appointment here: https://stonecanyondental.com or call Stone Canyon Dental at (972) 996-3191 for an appointment in our Sunnyvale office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

How Cosmetic Dentistry Restores Cracked Teeth

Many people think dental care only concerns oral hygiene and health, but a form of dental care called cosmetic dentistry relates more to appearance than anything else. It focuses on the aesthetics of the teeth and works to change the size, shape, and color of people's dentition. Many cosmetic dental procedures help with both the…

Dental Bridge For Single Tooth Replacement

Single-tooth replacement is important for oral health and the appearance of the smile. The dental bridge is one of the most popular options for individual tooth replacement. Here is a closer look at why single-tooth replacement is crucial and the advantages of a dental bridge.Having just one missing tooth visible when smiling can make someone…

3 Tips To Help Dental Crowns Last Longer

How long dental crowns last depends on how well you take care of them. A crown is expected to last about 15 years, but with the proper care, it could last twice as long. If a crown eventually does wear out, you need to have a replacement because the tooth underneath has been permanently altered.…

Bridge The Gap In Your Smile With A Dental Bridge

No one has to live with a gap in their smile due to missing teeth when a dental bridge offers a versatile and effective solution. It is also important to remember that replacing missing teeth is more than just a matter of cosmetics. Here is why bridging that gap teeth is important and how a…

Recent Posts

How Cosmetic Dentistry Restores Cracked Teeth

How Cosmetic Dentistry Restores Cracked Teeth

Many people think dental care only concerns oral hygiene and health, but a form of dental care called cosmetic dentistry relates more to appearance than anything else. It focuses on the aesthetics of the teeth and works to change the size, shape, and color of people's dentition. Many cosmetic dental procedures help with both the…

Dental Bridge For Single Tooth Replacement

Dental Bridge For Single Tooth Replacement

Single-tooth replacement is important for oral health and the appearance of the smile. The dental bridge is one of the most popular options for individual tooth replacement. Here is a closer look at why single-tooth replacement is crucial and the advantages of a dental bridge.Having just one missing tooth visible when smiling can make someone…

HOURS: MON 8AM-5PM TUES 8AM-4PM WED 8AM-4PM THURS 8AM-4PM FRI 8AM – NOON