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.

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