Top 5 Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry, Answered
Cosmetic dentistry is a wonderful way to improve the aesthetics of your smile. Making a strong first impression is critical in everything from dating to job interviews, and a brilliant smile can help boost your self-confidence. Yet many people are unsure exactly what is involved with cosmetic dentistry. Here are your top 5 questions about cosmetic dentistry, answered.
What Is a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover is, as the name suggests, a complete reimaging of your current smile. While a full mouth reconstruction rebuilds a smile destroyed by damage or disease, a smile makeover is elective and specifically done to enhance one's appearance.
First, Dr. Ricco will thoroughly evaluate your existing smile and discuss with you the changes you want to make. You may want to bring in photos of your smile when you were younger, or photos of celebrity smiles you like.
Dr. Ricco will take your preferences into account, along with such factors as your tooth texture and color, the alignment, proportion, and even length of your teeth, and your unique facial geography. He will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Note that if you have any existing dental disease, it must be treated before we begin cosmetic work. Cosmetic procedures succeed best when they are performed in a clean, healthy, disease-free mouth.
What Are My Cosmetic Options?
There are many different cosmetic dental procedures. These include, but are not limited to:
- Tooth whitening
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental bonding
- Porcelain crowns
- Orthodontics
Dr. Ricco may suggest several different solutions to be performed in a specific order for best results. For example, you might have porcelain veneers placed on your front teeth, and the rest of your teeth whitened to match. A full smile makeover often only takes a few visits to complete.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Expensive?
Everyone’s needs and desires are different, but many people are happy to learn that a beautiful smile may cost just a fraction of what they expect. In many cases, we can offer several options at different price points, and create a full treatment plan that is within your budget. Also, ask our office staff about financing options.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?
Every dental insurance policy is different, but insurers may partially cover certain cosmetic procedures if you meet specific criteria. Our friendly staff will help you understand your out of pocket costs before treatment commences.
How Else Can I Improve My Smile?
Even the most beautiful smile can be enhanced by following a few simple tips, especially for photographs. Here are some ideas:
Lipstick: Lipstick shades affect the perceived color of teeth, especially in pictures. If your teeth are yellowish or stained, try a darker shade with pink or blue undertones, such as plum or wine. Be careful with very intense colors if your teeth are not perfect, as they can highlight any minor imperfections.
Keep it natural: If someone asks for a photo, the tendency may be to tense up. A wide, fake smile can look like a grimace, while a face-crinkling grin can make your face look oddly scrunched. Instead, try to conjure up happy memories for a natural, dreamy smile that comes across as alluring.
Practice smiling: Everyone has unique features, and the only way to find your best angles is to experiment. Toss your hair and pose in front of your mirror, then snap a few selfies to see what you like best.
Located in Plainview, New York, The Ricco Dental Group is dedicated to each patient’s individual dental needs, from restoring damaged or missing teeth to cosmetic smile enhancements.. We offer evening and Saturday appointments, as well as emergency care. If you are ready to get started with a skilled, compassionate dentist, please call 516-931-3999 today to schedule an appointment.
