Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance (though not necessarily functionality) of teeth, gums and the overall smile.
This can include whitening, veneers Cosmetic Dentist Spartanburg SC, and other treatments to fix discolored, chipped, misshapen or broken teeth. Some of these procedures are also designed to improve the alignment and balance of a person’s smile.
Table of Contents
1. Aesthetics
Cosmetic dentistry is the art of improving the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of teeth, gums and bite. This is done by adjusting tooth color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance.
Aesthetics is a field of study that examines the aesthetic qualities of things, such as beauty, class, grace, balance, strength, timing, humor, costume, irony and more. It is also used to describe a variety of performing arts, such as ballet, theatre, music and film.
Modern philosophical aesthetics began in the eighteenth century and often focused on the question of beauty, an enduring concern that has continued to be central to both art and philosophy.
2. Health
Cosmetic dentistry treatments and procedures are not just a way to improve your appearance but also an important step toward improving your health. Research shows that many dental health problems can lead to serious health issues including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
In many cases, cosmetic procedures can resolve the root of these health problems, which can alleviate the symptoms and prevent more severe issues. For example, a misaligned bite can lead to toothaches and muscle tension in the jaw.
Similarly, missing teeth or discolored teeth can cause patients to avoid social situations, which can affect their self-esteem and confidence. Replacing missing teeth with a dental implant and whitening discolored teeth can help to restore their confidence, making them more likely to smile and enjoy life.
These treatments and procedures are available to patients of all ages. However, it is important to choose a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry. This means that the dentist has taken additional courses and invested in continued education in this specific area of dentistry.
3. Function
If you’re self-conscious about your smile or have teeth that are damaged or discolored, cosmetic dentistry can help. It can make your smile and teeth look better, improve your confidence and make you feel more comfortable.
Aesthetic dentistry is an art and requires a good eye, extensive knowledge of dental anatomy and mastery of dental materials. It also involves working with a laboratory technician to realize your dream smile.
If you’re missing a tooth, for example, a dentist can use a dental implant to replace the root of the tooth. An artificial tooth, known as a crown or bridge, is then attached to the implant.
4. Reimbursement
While many patients seek cosmetic dentistry for aesthetic reasons, they often struggle to pay for the cost of treatment. Luckily, there are multiple options to make pricey dental work affordable and accessible for patients of all financial backgrounds.
One option is Health Savings Account (HSA) funds, which are pre-tax earnings that can be used to pay for dental expenses not covered by insurance. While certain procedures automatically qualify for HSA reimbursement, others fall into a gray area that can be tricky to navigate.
Another option is third-party financing companies Aesthetic Dentist Spartanburg SC, which provide short-term loans to cover the costs of expensive treatments like veneers and implants. These companies often partner with practices and refer interested patients to them.
Conclusion
Some insurance plans also offer a partial grant for cosmetic dentistry that can be repaid at the time of treatment. This program is a great way to get a smile makeover at no cost. The grant is awarded to applicants who have completed an oral health assessment and have been recommended for inclusion in the program by a participating dentist.
