Cosmetic Dentistry in Richardson

Which Cosmetic Dental Service is Right for Me?

Once you know which type of cosmetic dental service is right for you, we can create a formal cost estimate to help you better prepare for your newer, beautiful smile:

• Porcelain Veneers: Placed in just two appointments, porcelain veneers are deemed permanent because they require a small bit of tooth enamel to be removed. As thin sheaths, these porcelain coverings can hide all types of flaws, but they are costlier than other cosmetic services because of their customization and permanence.
• Metal-Free Restorations: Decay and damage can be concealed with traditional amalgam, or you can opt for metal-free restorations that seal and protect vulnerable teeth. Although more aesthetically pleasing, it can become pricey if you prefer crowns as opposed to other cosmetic solutions to hide stains and small cracks.
• Direct Bonding: Using composite resin to hide imperfections in just one visit, direct bonding is highly affordable and easy to apply. Although it doesn’t last as long as veneers, it doesn’t require the removal of tooth enamel.
• Teeth Whitening: Eliminating stains is easy with in-office or take-home whitening kits. We offer both, and you can choose which option is best for your needs. When compared to store-bought kits, professional teeth whitening is more expensive, but it is worth the investment because the results will last much longer.
• Invisalign: Invisalign is a costly investment but is ideal if you need orthodontic treatment to fix a bite or crooked teeth. If opting solely to improve aesthetics, it can become a pricey investment and is unlikely to be covered by dental insurance.
• Gum Recontouring: Removing excess gum tissue from around your teeth is a permanent way to improve your appearance. Although costly, it is worth the investment because you’ll never need to have it done again.

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Be An Investment Worth Making

It’s not just your physical appearance that will benefit from cosmetic dentistry. Choosing veneers, teeth whitening, gum recontouring, direct bonding, or one of our other many services will have a tremendous impact on your mental and emotional health as well.

Living with low self-esteem, depression, or a lack of desire to get out and meet others can take its toll over time. But when you do something about your smile and begin to feel better about the way you look, you’ll find that it positively impacts other areas of your life as well.

You’ll be more eager to attend social gatherings with family and friends, seek out new opportunities at work, and maybe put yourself out there to meet new people.

You’ll also find that by choosing cosmetic dentistry, you’ll be so happy with your results that you’ll take better care of your oral health, which also means improved wellness and well-being.

How to Make Cosmetic Dentistry Affordable

At Canyon Creek Family Dentistry, we want you to embrace the idea of a straighter, healthier, more vibrant smile, which is why we offer alternative options when paying for treatment. Here, you can apply for flexible financing through CareCredit, which will allow you to enroll in a low-to-no-interest payment plan. Instead of paying the full amount out of pocket, you will pay off your treatment in monthly installments.

Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?

No one wants to feel any pain while in the dental chair, but there isn't any reason to worry. Your comfort is our top priority. We will use a local numbing agent to block pain signals. Our office embraces the latest techniques and technologies to improve patient experiences. Although you won't have any discomfort during your procedure, your mouth may be a little tender, depending on your treatment plan. An OTC pain reliever will keep you comfortable. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth can numb the area temporarily and reduce inflammation. Your dentist will review any additional aftercare instructions before you go home.

Why is my dental health important?

Your main focus might be aesthetic concerns, but your dentist in Richardson will be more interested in your dental health. Healthy teeth and gums are required before any elective procedures. If dental problems aren't resolved, cosmetic dentistry can aggravate or hide them, which can threaten your new smile. Your dentist will examine your mouth to ensure it is healthy. It's not uncommon to need a little prep work. Although your treatment plan may include a couple more steps, it is time well spent to ensure your investment thrives.

How long does cosmetic dentistry last?

There isn't a cut-and-dry answer because each procedure has a different life expectancy. Not to mention, various factors affect the duration of your results. Your dentist will explain how long you can expect your new smile to last. You can protect your investment with a solid oral hygiene routine at home. Brush, floss, and use a daily mouthrinse. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. It’s best to avoid anything that may damage your smile, like using your teeth to open bottles, chewing on your fingernails, or smoking. Don't forget to wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports. If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, ask your dentist for a nightguard.

Can I use my dental insurance to pay for cosmetic dentistry?

It isn't common for dental insurance to pay for elective services, but there are some exceptions. Many cosmetic treatments offer restorative benefits. If your dentist deems a procedure medically necessary, you may be able to use your dental insurance to offset the cost. Although every policy and situation differs, your benefits can pay 50% to 80% of the cost after meeting your deductible. We will help maximize any applicable benefits to lower your out-of-pocket expenses. A member of our team will review your payment options for any remaining balance, like third-party financing with CareCredit.