Your smile is one of the first things other people notice about you, so it makes sense if you want to enhance its appearance through cosmetic dentistry. Before you commit to anything, though, you probably have some questions about the road ahead. How safe is cosmetic dentistry? Is there any chance that it could cause long-term damage to your teeth or your overall health? This blog post provides useful information.
Cosmetic Dentistry Is Quite Safe
Here are a few important notes to keep in mind about the safety aspect of cosmetic dentistry:
- For the most part, cosmetic dentistry is very safe. As long as you entrust your care to a qualified dental team, there is very little risk that something will go horribly wrong.
- Your dental team will make sure you are a good candidate for the procedures you are interested in. Some oral and overall health factors could influence how safe it is for you to undergo cosmetic treatment. Your dental team will thoroughly screen you before they approve you to go ahead with any aesthetic procedures.
- You should beware of “cheap” services and DIY hacks. In an attempt to save time or money, some patients resort to so-called “bargain” services or tricks that they see on social media. These methods have not been proven to be safe, so extreme caution is in order.
How Does Cosmetic Dentistry Affect Your Teeth?
Cosmetic dentistry is safe, but it can have a long-term impact on the way your teeth feel and function. Here is an overview of how a few popular treatments might affect your smile:
- Veneers. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that disguise aesthetic imperfections in teeth. Placing them requires that a bit of enamel be removed. The enamel will not grow back, so you will always need veneers or another type of restoration to protect your dentition.
- Metal-free restorations. Metal-free crowns and other restorations may also require modifications to the shape of your natural teeth.
- Smile makeover. A smile makeover can encompass several cosmetic treatments, some of which may involve steps that cannot be reversed.
Do not let the above information scare you; the vast majority of patients who commit to cosmetic procedures have absolutely no regrets about their decision.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?
If you still have concerns about the safety of cosmetic dentistry, write down a list of questions and book an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. They will give you candid information about what is involved in aesthetic treatments, including both the benefits and potential risks. Then, you can make a confident decision about how to move forward.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ron Sherman has more than 33 years of experience as a dentist in Issaquah. He approaches cosmetic services with a keen eye for detail and a heavy emphasis on patient safety. If you are interested in enhancing your smile, Dr. Sherman and our team are ready to answer your questions. Contact our office at 425-391-4964.