What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

When it comes to caring for our teeth, we often come across the term “cosmetic dentistry.” Understanding this term and what services and procedures fall under its category can go a long way toward the health of your teeth, and your wallet, by understanding what is and is not covered by your dental insurance. So, just what is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is essentially, any dental procedure that is aimed at improving the overall aesthetic appeal of your smile, but not necessarily a requirement for overall oral health. In other words, they include a list of services and products that can improve the appearance of your teeth. Because these procedures are rarely considered medically necessary for a healthy mouth, they are often not covered by dental insurance plans, so it’s important to be prepare for any financial obligation you may incur.

Trending Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

There are actually quite a few procedures and products that fall under the cosmetic dentistry category. Some of the most common services in this arena include:

• Dental Veneers. This process involves bonding a thin layer of porcelain or resin to the outside of your existing teeth in order to reshape them. This is used to give a more “uniform” look to your teeth and include reshaping, resizing, and whiter coloring.
• Teeth Whitening. This is by far the most common cosmetic dentistry request. This process offers a few different options that can be utilized to brighten and whiten your teeth in order to get rid of unsightly staining or yellowing from plaque.
• Dental Bonding. Bonding is used primarily to repair the appearance of chipped or broken teeth by adhering a resin putty to the area in need of repair in order to restore the look of the original tooth.

In some cases, cosmetic dentistry can be considered part of a medically necessary procedure that your insurance might cover. Examples of this could include tooth fillings, crowns, bridges, and even implants. You should always check with your insurance provider prior to any dental work to ensure your elected procedure is covered.

Finding a Cosmetic Dentist Near You

Searching for the best cosmetic dentist Lancaster can save you a lot of headaches in the long run by helping you adequately understand and prepare for these types of procedures. At Lancaster Family Smiles, our team is here to discuss all of your options with you as well as walk you through the steps in preparation.

We are here to make sure you know just what to expect and how to plan for any elected cosmetic procedure – even those not covered by your insurance. The happiness and dental health of our clients are our #1 priority!

Talk to Your Family Dentist about Elective Dental Work

Before opting for dental procedures to improve your smile, start by talking to your family dentist about your options. Know what to expect and how to plan for these services to maintain your beautiful s