Did you know that you can get braces as an adult? In fact, more adults are seeking cosmetic dentistry treatments later in life because of concerns about how their teeth look. You might be surprised to find out that traditional metal braces might not be that much cheaper than Invisalign.
On average, metal braces cost between $4,000 and $7,500. On the other hand, Invisalign costs between $3,000 and $9,000. If you want affordable and effective cosmetic dentistry services, we have you covered.
In our complete guide, we will go over different dental procedures that can help you achieve the smile you have always dreamed about. Keep reading on to learn more about Invisalign, implants, veneers, and more!
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a field that helps improve the appearance or aesthetics of your smile and teeth. It may encompass the color, position, or alignment of your teeth.
When you see your dentist for standard dental work such as cleanings, fillings, or implants, they may also specialize in cosmetic work. Some of the common treatments that advanced cosmetic dentistry works with include:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Dental crowns
- Implants
- Invisalign
- Teeth whitening
Some of these procedures are also necessary because they support other teeth and prevent ongoing dental or oral health problems. For example, dental implants are often used to replace damaged or missing teeth. Without them, you risk further decay to other teeth, shifting, or chewing problems.
Eventually, this could lead to the need for dentures. However, implants are also used to fix smiles and match natural teeth coloring, giving you back more confidence.
Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry Services
So how can you tell which cosmetic service you need? First, you will need to schedule an appointment with your family cosmetic dentistry clinic. They can perform simple exams or imaging to help you decide with your dentist what will work best for your smile.
Next, you may need several appointments to achieve that perfect smile. Implants can take months to complete since they require multiple steps. Luckily, there are another simple (yet, effective) solutions to improve the appearance of your teeth.
Two popular procedures that can straighten teeth or brighten your smile are Invisalign and professional teeth whitening. The latter is arguably the easiest and most cost-friendly solution to quickly brighten your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening can remove stains and signs of aging. It provides you with higher-quality and longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products. Additionally, you can complete this treatment immediately!
Invisalign vs. Braces
Advanced cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, especially regarding straightening teeth. Traditional metal braces affect what you eat and drink. They can also cut into your gums and cause irritation.
If you are an adult looking for ways to improve your smile, you might not want to revert to those awkward teenage years. Invisalign is an excellent alternative.
It uses clear retainers that you wear for around 22 hours daily. You can take it out to eat or drink, and it straightens teeth (in most cases) as well as traditional braces.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a tooth restoration technique. Your dentist will customize thin shells placed on the outside of your teeth. It helps correct uneven or chipped teeth. Veneers also do an excellent job at covering any tooth stains.
Most people choose dental veneers if they have ongoing or persistent dental problems, such as gaps or crookedness. There are two types of veneers, porcelain, and composite-based.
Porcelain is a more expensive but longer-lasting option than composite. These veneers can last upwards of 20 years and are less likely to chip.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the more invasive procedures for cosmetic dentists. Because they fall under a gray area between functionality and appearance, your insurance may cover at least a portion of the cost. Here are some other benefits of choosing dental implants:
- Improved speech
- Improved comfort
- Improved oral health
- Improved chewing
There are four primary steps toward getting dental implants, starting with an initial evaluation. A thorough evaluation is needed to assess your jaw bone and create a tooth impression. During the next several weeks, your dentist will remove the tooth or teeth, prepare your jawbone, and place the dental implant.
This is a permanent solution to poor oral health. Since the implant is placed directly into your jawbone, it should last for many years with proper care.
How Much Does Cosmetic Dentistry Cost?
Implants and veneers are one of the more expensive procedures. Dental implants can cost $2,000 to $3,000 per tooth. However, that doesn’t include the abutment or crown, which could add another $3,000 to $4,000 to your final bill.
Veneers might not cost quite that much but are usually priced in the four-figure range. Affordable cosmetic dentistry includes teeth whitening. You can save some money by choosing at-home kits sold by your dentist.
If you don’t want to take the time to use these teeth whitening kits, in-office procedures are available. Typically, professional teeth whitening costs $650 or more, depending on the clinic and the type of teeth whitening used. For any of these procedures, inquire about financing plans.
Start Your Cosmetic Dentistry Journey Today
Have you wondered if cosmetic dentistry is right for you? There are several options spanning from teeth whitening to full smile reconstruction. If used solely for cosmetic purposes, you will likely have to fork out the entire cost.
However, some of these dental procedures might overlap with dental insurance, so it always pays to ask! When seeking a cosmetic dentist, you want someone with experience and a good reputation.
At Newbury Dental Group, we specialize in several advanced cosmetic dentistry services. Check out our website and visit one of our several clinics in the Southern California region!