Top 4 Myths About Cosmetic Dentistry

People often suffer with imperfect or painful teeth for a long time before seeking the help of a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Blaustein. Ignoring the problem makes the situation much worse, but each individual has their own reasons for delaying treatment. Sometimes it’s just a matter of scheduling, but more often than not, it’s just easier to bury one’s head in the sand than face the facts that there is a problem requiring solutions from a professional.

Here are four common myths about cosmetic dentistrythat deter patients from getting help for their troubled teeth.

Myth #1: Cosmetic dentistry is not necessary.

Cosmetic dentistry is sometimes viewed in the same light as cosmetic surgery like nose jobs or breast implants. Keep in mind, though, that some plastic surgery procedures are not just done for vanity’s sake. Just as Rhinoplasty can help patients with deviated septums gain reprieve from snoring and asthma and breast augmentation can increase self-confidence in women who have had a mastectomy, so can cosmetic dentistry procedures improve the quality of life for patients. Ignoring broken teeth, improper bite or gum inflammation leads to increased pain, disease, worn teeth, tooth loss, jaw pain and difficulty chewing.

Dr. Blaustein’s services improve the cosmetic appearance of the teeth, but also address underlying structural issues before they become more painful problems.

Myth #2: Cosmetic dentistry is only affordable for celebrities and rich people.

The worst case scenarios where a person needs a full set of reconstructive implants on top and bottom could cost as much as a new luxury sports car. However, these instances are very far and few between – and, like buying a car, there are ample finance options to help make the biggest dental bills more manageable. Also, modern advances in materials, technology and procedure have made cosmetic dentistry more affordable than in previous years.

The good news is that the vast majority of cosmetic dentistry procedures cost much less and can be subsidized by insurance. Dr. Blaustein works with individuals to find the most affordable options for every budget.

Whenever possible, Dr. Blaustein’s office works with patients’ insurance providers to ensure that all necessary procedures receive coverage. Insurance will often pay up to 50 percent of the cost to restore tooth structure and improve oral health. For tooth whitening or other procedures that are not covered, Dr. Blaustein’s office explores options like using medical savings plan funds or applying for a CareCredit loan offering 0% interest for up to 24 months.

Myth #3: Cosmetic dentistry is horribly painful.

Many people suffer dental pain anxiety, but sedation dentistry has made extensive dental work a manageable fear. Dr. Blaustein is New York State certified for oral conscious sedation from the NYU College of Dentistry. He works with patients to determine the proper methodology to make the overall experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. Whether he uses local, twilight or general anesthesia, patient satisfaction is of utmost importance to Dr. Blaustein.

Depending on personal preferences and pain tolerance levels, Dr. Blaustein may recommend sedation for procedures ranging from deep teeth cleaning, dental bonding and cavity filling, to crown preparation, gum treatments and root canal surgery. Following more invasive procedures, prescription medication used for up to a week can prevent any discomfort while one’s mouth heals.

Myth #4: The end result won’t look or feel natural.

Modern approaches to cosmetic dentistry combine medical proficiency and true artistry. Materials used in bonding, fillings, root canals and dental implants are more sophisticated and designed to work with the internal structure of the patient’s mouth. Cosmetic dentists custom-design tooth implants and denturesusing computerized technology and prepare the teeth carefully to rest implants naturally in the mouth to avoid a “horsey” or overly large appearance.

Cosmetic dentists take the original shape and shading of your teeth into consideration to provide a true-to-life aesthetic.