Something that is unnatural and causes so much pain. But in reality, it is quite the opposite. It is a branch of dentistry focused on improving the appearance of teeth, gums, and overall smile aesthetics.
It consists of various procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, and orthodontic treatments to enhance the symmetry, color, and alignment of teeth.
Here we are about to discuss cosmetic dentistry in San Antonio in detail.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
It won’t be so much to say that it is magic that will brighten your smile.
- Cracked teeth,
- Small spaces between your teeth,
- Stains on your teeth, Misshapen teeth,
- Misaligned teeth,
Whatever it is that hinders your aesthetic smile can be easily solved by cosmetic dentistry.
It is the process of making your teeth white, veneering them for imperfections, and bracing them for proper alignment. Processes like gum contouring and tooth contouring are also helpful for dental health.
The common cosmetic dentistry surgeries
The common practices of cosmetic dentistry are teeth whitening, veneering, dental bonding, tooth contouring, and gum contouring.
Teeth whitening
It is a solution to dark coloration, dark stains, and yellowish teeth from coffee or tea.
- It is a simple process where some chemical is used to break down the stain formation.
- It can be done with just one visit to our office Hernandez Dental & Implant Center
- Or you can do it yourself at your place with our supplied treatment and procedure.
Veneering
If you are not satisfied with the shape, size, and gap of your teeth, veneering is the solution for you.
- It is simple cosmetic dentistry surgery where a custom-made shell is used to modify your teeth’ appearance.
- The shell is usually made of porcelain or composite resin
- A temporary veneer will be used to take proper measurements of your teeth. For making the perfect shells.
- It is a simple surgery with a little pain. We conduct the most advanced cosmetic dentistry surgery for this.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding can truly make a broken or chipped tooth a tooth in b shape look like a perfect tooth again. If you don’t like the shape or color or if there’s a gap between two teeth oftentimes a dental bonding can fix it.
- It is an easy process, you might have to visit the dentist 2-3 times.
- It might require enamel removal based on the type of bonding.
- Our advanced cosmetic dentistry technique will make the curing and trimming process a lot easier.
- It also requires replacement for 5-7 years.
Tooth contouring
It is used to fix chipped, cracked, or slightly crooked teeth. It is a simple procedure that requires only one one-time visit to the dentist.
- No anesthesia, no pain process just a simple process of removal of the outer enamel layer
- In our advanced cosmetic dentistry technique we use the laser to make it more perfect operation
- You can eat or drink as usual after this treatment. No exception is required.
Gum contouring
It reshapes the gum structure for a better smile. It is also used for diseases like periodontal disease and gum recession.
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It is done in one visit to the dentist
- Anesthesia is used, might hurt a little after the effect is over
- Excess gum tissue might be removed to expose more teeth.
Cosmetic Dentist Services Average Costs In San Antonio
The cost of cosmetic dentist services may vary based on location, type, and procedure of surgery. However, there is an average cost idea given below:
|
Service |
Costs | Visit |
| Teeth Whitening | 200$-400$ | 1-time visit |
| Veneering | 250$-1500$ per tooth | Depends |
| Dental bonding | 500$-1500$ | 1-time visit |
| Tooth contouring | 50$-500$ per tooth | 1-time visit |
| Gum contouring | 50$-350$ per tooth | 1-time visit |
Can Anyone Undergo Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments?
Yes, anyone can undergo cosmetic dentistry. But it is a medical treatment so it is highly recommended that you should consult a specialist before cosmetic dentistry surgery.
- Oral health: we are talking about oral treatment so it is highly recommended to check for oral health
- Previous dental history: you should consult your doctor about your previous dental history if there is any.
- Oral Habits: Teeth grinding or nail-biting can impact results. Protective measures may be recommended.
- Expectations: Be realistic about outcomes. Your dentist will guide you toward suitable treatments.
- Medical History: Share any relevant conditions or medications with your dentist.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?
Numerous variables affect it. We have covered it in great length here.
Insurance Coverage:
Solely cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by dental insurance. Why?
Since they have no direct effect on how well your teeth work or how healthy your mouth is overall.
There might be some gray regions, though. Let us dissect it:
Cosmetic vs. Restorative:
Medical necessity is cited for restorative procedures. They deal with problems like illness, injury, or decay.
Dental implants, porcelain crowns, and veneers—which can be used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes—are a few examples of restorative procedures.
These restorative procedures are typically partially or fully covered by insurance.
Cosmetic Procedures:
The only goal of cosmetic procedures is to make your smile seem better. There is no injury, deterioration, or need for medical attention.
How long do they last?
The results of cosmetic dentistry can fade over time, depending on the particular surgery and your level of oral hygiene. Let us examine the specifics:
Teeth Whitening:
The effects of professionally performed teeth whitening might persist for up to three years. In as short as six months, some patients might experience fading. Use whitening toothpaste and abstain from food and drink stains to keep your teeth looking brighter.
Dental Veneers:
One of the longest-lasting solutions for a smile makeover is porcelain veneers, which most patients decide to renew periodically.
Usually, they last a wonderful 10 to 20 years before needing to be replaced.
Veneers must be properly maintained to last as long as possible.
Dental implants:
These tooth replacements can last a lifetime when properly cared for.
The implant is preserved when the surrounding bone merges with it.
Are There Any Risks in Cosmetics Dentistry
This could come with some kind of risk attached. We have had a thorough conversation about it.
Sensitivity: During or after teeth whitening, some patients report feeling more sensitive teeth. Usually, this is just transient.
Gum Irritation: If the whitening gel comes into touch with the gums, it may irritate.
Overuse: Too much bleaching product use might damage teeth enamel.
Color Variation: Not every tooth will respond to whitening in the same way.
Dental veneers: Veneers may chip or break, however this is uncommon.
Irreversible: The process of applying veneers involves the irreversible removal of a thin layer of enamel.
Maintenance: To avoid damage or discoloration, proper maintenance is necessary.
Dental implants: Typical surgical risks are associated with implant implantation, which is a surgical procedure. The area surrounding the implant site is infected.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for continuing down to this. If you are looking for a cosmetic dentistry specialist in San Antonio you are at the right place.
Regarding the concern for your bright smile, cosmetic dentistry can be magic. We have the best magicians in this regard. We have hundreds of happy clients, click to read their experience with us.
FAQ:
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Painful?
The procedures generally do not cause significant pain. Let’s see the reality:
Teeth Whitening and Porcelain Veneers:
These treatments typically result in minimal discomfort. You might experience temporary sensitivity that lasts a few days, but it’s usually manageable. Porcelain veneers, do not require drilling and injection, so not much pain.
Cosmetic Braces (Invisible Braces):
These utilize tooth-colored wires or clear aligners. While there may be initial discomfort as the aligners are tightly fitted to encourage tooth movement, you will get used to it after some time. The sensitivity can often be managed with specialized toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Composite Resin Fillings:
If you need fillings, there might be some initial and post-procedural discomfort. Dentists can numb the area with pain-free injections before treatment to minimize sensitivity. Afterward, you may experience mild sensitivity to hot and cold foods, which usually resolves over time.
Dental Implant Surgery:
This process involves placing an implant into the jawbone, allowing it to heal before attaching an abutment and a false tooth. While the surgery itself is performed over time, the discomfort is manageable. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods may persist for a few weeks or months.
How can I choose the right cosmetic dentist for my needs?
I suggest seeing the reviews of their previous clients. Besides that, you can check if they are the right fit for your problems. To find that out, you can talk to them about the procedure, their experience with your kind of problem, and whether they have any awards or not.
Can cosmetic dentistry improve the health of my teeth, or is it purely aesthetic?
Yes, it is useful for dental health. Though it is renowned for creating aesthetic smiles, processes like tooth and gum contouring have some oral health benefits.