Do you feel self-conscious about flaws in your teeth, such as chips, cracks, stubborn stains, or mild misalignments? If so, you might benefit from one or more cosmetic services with your dentist.
However, before proceeding with any elective treatments, you must consult your provider to ensure you’re a good candidate. This initial appointment is the perfect opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the recommended procedures and what results to expect. If you’re unsure what inquiries to make, read on to learn 3 things you should know before moving forward!
Question #1: What Treatments Are Right for Me?
Potentially, anyone who isn’t one hundred percent pleased with the way their smile looks might benefit from cosmetic dentistry. But that doesn’t automatically mean that every available option is right for everyone’s unique circumstances.
For example, your dentist must first examine your teeth and gums and treat any problems, like cavities or gum disease, that might interfere with the results. Then, they can provide a customized treatment plant to help you achieve your goals. Whether you want a brighter smile, straighter teeth, or to mend or mask damaged enamel, they have solutions to address your concerns.
Question #2: How Long Will It Take?
Once you and your provider have settled on an appropriate solution, it’s natural to have questions about the procedure itself, like how long it usually takes. The answer depends significantly on your current dental condition and which services you opt to undergo.
For instance, if you opt to lighten your enamel with professional teeth whitening, you could potentially see results after a single in-office visit, or within a couple of weeks of using customized take-home kits provided by your dentist. More complex treatments, like placing veneers, require multiple appointments over a period of weeks to complete from start to finish. Meanwhile, Invisalign often takes 12 to 18 months to complete.
Question #3: Are There Specific Aftercare Instructions?
It’s important to remember that you’ll need to care for your grin carefully both during and after your procedure to help maintain the results. Before committing to certain services, you should ask your dentist whether there are special aftercare instructions to be aware of, so you can make an informed decision.
For example, masking chipped and cracked teeth with porcelain veneers requires that you avoid eating anything too hard, crunchy, or sticky that could damage your new restorations. It’s also wise to steer clear of darkly pigmented foods after professional whitening to prevent additional discoloration.
Having an honest conversation with your dentist about the enhancements you’d like to see and which treatments work best with your lifestyle can help you choose the right cosmetic service to meet your needs!
Meet the Author
Dr. Shabnam Tehrani takes pride in providing patients with top-quality dental care in a luxurious setting for a unique, VIP experience. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and today, she offers a complete menu of services under one roof, including cosmetic procedures. Whether you want to reposition your teeth or conceal imperfections, she is happy to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs to achieve the intended outcome. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (813) 751-3044.