Is cosmetic dentistry bad?

In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has grown significantly in popularity, particularly due to the exposure we have seen of the results you can get on social media. The advancement in technology and the information that has come out regarding the procedure has made us feel more comfortable about exploring it. There’s so much information out there for us to do our own research and make an informed decision when it comes to a lot of cosmetic treatments. Despite this, there are still misunderstandings and misconceptions regarding cosmetic dentistry and how it can have potential detrimental impacts on oral health. 

Firstly, it is important to understand what cosmetic dentistry is. Cosmetic dental treatments such as veneers, dental bonding, teeth whitening, and dental implants are all aimed at enhancing the aesthetics and sometimes function of teeth. These procedures are, more often than not, optional. In some cases, if you’ve got weak, brittle teeth or if you’ve just had a root canal treatment, crowns would be recommended to protect and prolong the affected tooth. In most cases, patients would’ve done their own research and have decided that these are the cosmetic treatments they’re wanting to look into. 

One frequent concern is that the application of cosmetic dentistry can harm your tooth enamel. However, trustworthy cosmetic dentists put a high priority on maintaining tooth structure and employ minimally evasive procedures. For instance, safe bleaching agents are used in tooth whitening operations, and when they are applied properly, do not damage enamel. Porcelain veneers adhere to the tooth's surface similarly while maintaining the integrity of the enamel with the use of new technology veneers, depending on where you go. 

Contrary to popular belief, some cosmetic procedures can actually help to enhance your oral health and dispel the myth that cosmetic dentistry ignores long-term oral health. Dental implants, for example, retain jaw structure and restore missing teeth while also preventing bone loss. Orthodontic procedures, such as braces or clear aligners, fix bite problems in addition to straightening teeth, increasing oral function and averting further issues.

It's important to speak with an experienced cosmetic dentist who can evaluate your dental health and choose the best cosmetic procedure for your individual requirements and desired outcome. Before pursuing cosmetic operations, a thorough evaluation should be sought to ensure that any underlying oral health issues are first attended to prior to addressing your cosmetic concerns. 

While cosmetic dentistry can improve your smile, maintaining good oral hygiene habits is crucial to preserving the results and to protect your general oral health. Regular brushing, flossing, and checkup and cleans are essential for maintaining good oral health and extending the life of your aesthetic treatments.

Though in this day and age, cosmetic dentistry is often no longer intrinsically harmful to your teeth when carried out by trained oral healthcare professional, it is extremely important to do your own research and make an informed decision. Address the common misconceptions about cosmetic dentistry and choose your dental care provider with knowledge and experience. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. If you‘re thinking about it, make the time and start with an appointment with a professional cosmetic dentist.