Cosmetic Dentistry – Lockport, IL

Which Cosmetic Dental Service is Right for Me?

Knowing which cosmetic dental service is right for treating various tooth and gum imperfections requires the expertise of a cosmetic dentist in Lockport. At Grand Dental Group – Lockport, our team will likely recommend one of the following options:

• Porcelain Veneers: Made out of thin sheaths of porcelain, these small coverings fit over the front surfaces of teeth to hide imperfections. They are created and placed in two visits and can last a decade or more with proper care. Because they can alter the size, shape, and color of teeth, they are costlier than other cosmetic solutions.
• Metal-Free Dental Restorations: If a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, dental crowns can be highly effective in offering protection and stability. But for patients who prefer a natural-looking restoration, we can provide metal-free dental restorations that blend in with a person’s smile. This can be a costly option depending on how many crowns a person needs or prefers.
• Cosmetic Dental Bonding: One of the more affordable options is cosmetic dental bonding. Used for minor flaws, the composite resin covers problem areas and can last several years before requiring replacement. Not to mention, it is completed during one visit.
• Teeth Whitening: If stains and discoloration are the only issues, teeth whitening can be beneficial. Producing results quickly (one hour or two weeks depending on the type of whitening procedure), individuals use the high-grade bleaching gel to eliminate stains and produce whiter smiles.
• Gum Recontouring: A permanent way to create a balanced and even smile is to pursue gum recontouring. Removing excess tissue from around the teeth elongates the natural structures, creating a more pleasing aesthetic.
• Crown Lengthening: This type of procedure is similar to gum recontouring, but it is recommended when a patient requires more tooth structure for proper placement of a customized restoration (i.e., crown, bridge).

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Be An Investment Worth Making

Although cosmetic dentistry is largely focused on a person’s aesthetics, the benefits that can arise as a result of any of these above-mentioned services extends to an individual’s oral and overall health as well. Fixing gaps, overcrowding, misaligned, and stained teeth can have a positive impact on self-esteem, and it encourages patients to adopt good oral hygiene habits that will allow for healthier smiles year after year.

How to Make Cosmetic Dentistry Affordable

Since most dental insurance companies do not offer coverage for cosmetic dental treatments, patients often need to look to other alternative payment options. At Grand Dental Group – Lockport, we are pleased to partner with CareCredit, which allows individuals to enroll in low and no-interest payment plans. And with no surprise fees, patients can feel comfortable and confident paying off their treatment over time.

There is also the option of enrolling in our Grand Advantage Plan. This allows patients to pay a one-time yearly fee for access to basic preventive care as well as discounts on other available services, many of which include cosmetic care.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?

Cosmetic dentistry is not typically covered by dental insurance; however, some cases are viewed as exceptions. Although they are few, a patient who requires a metal-free restoration may be able to seek coverage through their insurance company if the damage poses a threat to their oral health. The same can be said for veneers as well.

The only way to know if a person will be covered for cosmetic care is to review the policy. Some services such as teeth whitening and cosmetic bonding will likely never be covered but should there be an exception, it is important that all paperwork be filled out correctly to ensure it is approved and not denied.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?

Much like any other type of dental treatment, cosmetic care is a safe option as long as the patient is healthy. Also, having a cosmetic dentist with proper training is essential, as poor outcomes can stem from the “professional” lacking the experience needed to produce natural-looking results. During regular consultations, it is necessary that a thorough review of the individual’s oral and overall health history be discussed to avoid any possible problems that might otherwise be overlooked.

How Do I Know If I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?

The only way to know if a person needs cosmetic dentistry is for them to evaluate their smile and determine if they are unhappy with its appearance. Once sitting in with a cosmetic dentist, our team can more thoroughly examine a person’s oral anatomy and identify problem areas that can easily be fixed with cosmetic care. Should one or more treatments be recommended, we will include them in a personalized treatment plan that the patient can review before agreeing to move forward with any type of treatment.

How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Last?

Cosmetic dental care, in most cases, is not designed to last forever. While there are exceptions (i.e., gum recontouring), veneers, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, metal-free restorations, and other services do require replacement after some time. How long your cosmetic results will last is ultimately up to how well the individual takes care of their smile at home. If they continue to practice good oral hygiene, keep their regular checkups and cleanings, eat healthy foods, avoid unhealthy habits, and wear proper mouth protection while playing sports, their brighter teeth or transformed smile can last for years to come.