Cosmetic dentistry procedures can be a great way to improve the appearance of your smile. Specifically, cosmetic procedures include anything from teeth whitening to dental veneers. If you're unhappy with your smile, certainly there are cosmetic dentistry options to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Before you schedule a procedure with your cosmetic dentist, however, there are a few questions worth asking.
Is it Covered By Insurance?
First and foremost, be aware that most cosmetic dental procedures will not be covered by your dental insurance company. Still, there are instances where they may be partially or completely covered, so it is always worth looking into if you have insurance. Specifically, cosmetic procedures that are also deemed by your dentist to be medically necessary may be covered if your dentist can provide the proper documentation (usually a written letter) to your insurance company.
For example, if you have a chipped tooth that you want to have bonded, it might be covered by your insurance if your dentist can advise that the chipped tooth would otherwise pose an injury risk, such as if the jagged part of the chipped tooth were to cut your lip or cheek.
How Long Will the Results Last?
It's also important to determine how long you can expect the results of your cosmetic procedure to last. Some are more or less permanent, whereas some may need to be redone in order to maintain the results. For example, teeth whitening procedures can make your smile shades brighter in just one office visit. However, you may need to return for additional treatments annually in order to prevent discoloration and yellowing. Veneers, on the other hand, are an example of a cosmetic procedure that can last for many decades or even a lifetime.
What Care and Maintenance Is Required?
And of course, be sure to find out what type of at-home care and maintenance will be required on your end. For some procedures, like teeth whitening, you won't need to do anything (aside from keep up with your regular dental hygiene routine). However, other cosmetic work, such as veneers, may require special care. For example, you shouldn't use abrasive toothpastes (such as those containing baking soda) on this material, as it can cause scratching that will make the veneers themselves more prone to staining and other damage. By knowing how to properly maintain your cosmetic work, you can avoid needing to have it redone down the road.
To learn more, contact a company like Family 1st Dental.
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