The field of dentistry is populated by a number of different types of generalists and specialists. If you’re like most people, you tend to stick with a general dentist when it comes to your regular cleanings and checkups. If so, you can bet that the following five truths are ones that your dentist wishes that you didn’t know about in terms of cosmetic dentistry.
1. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on appearances
General dentistry focuses on oral health and hygiene while cosmetic dentistry focuses on appearances. While a patient might be more concerned about how their smile looks, this often cannot be achieved without healthy teeth. General dentistry and cosmetic dentistry are complimentary services instead of being opposing ones.
2. Teeth whitening doesn’t mean your teeth are clean
Having a pearly white smile is the goal for nearly everyone who visits the dentist. Not everyone understands the link that exists between a healthy smile and teeth that are white. Just because you visit a dentist for a session of teeth whitening doesn’t mean that your teeth are also clean and that you can forgo your regular dental checkup. In fact, numerous germs, acids and bacteria can remain in your mouth and on your gums after you’ve had your teeth whitened.
3. Bonding is a temporary fix
If you visit your dentist looking for solutions to address injuries to your teeth or chips, bonding is often an option. While it’s not possible to determine the validity of bonding for your particular situation until you undergo a complete examination of the problem, bonding is simple and relatively inexpensive. Bonding is a temporary solution because the material used can wear down over time.
4. Cosmetic dentistry is an investment
Cosmetic dentistry is the glamorous cousin to general dentistry’s focus on health. That being said, cosmetic dentistry solutions are often considered an investment in the patient’s smile. This is likely to transfer to better overall oral health. The reasons for this are often twofold. Firstly, being vigilant about regular dental checkups, flossing and brushing help maintain the beautiful results that cosmetic dentistry provides. Secondly, paying particular attention to your oral health can reduce the costs that you might incur in the future if your cosmetic work fails because of a lack of hygiene.
5. Protecting your tooth enamel is important
Your teeth’s enamel plays a vital role in their health. Unfortunately, it can often crack and chip which then exposes the rest of that tooth to cavity-forming bacteria and acids. Tooth enamel isn’t a living tissue so it doesn’t heal on its own. The shaping of your tooth enamel can help improve the appearance of your smile as well as your bite. It can also protect your teeth from further damage from substances.
At Dupont Dental, we provide a range of dental services — both preventative and cosmetic — that focus on providing our patients with the healthiest and most appealing smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
