Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure Costs
Information About Cosmetic Dentistry
While patients routinely visit a general or family dentist for routine check-ups and necessary treatments, many also seek the help of a cosmetic dentist to address their aesthetic concerns about their smiles. Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a wide variety of dental treatments that can straighten teeth, correct discoloration or chips, and provide brighter smiles.
As dental technologies become more sophisticated, patients can enjoy more natural-looking, beautiful smiles than ever before. Dental fillings composed of gold, amalgam or other materials often left noticeable dark spots on the teeth; now, patients can receive tooth-colored fillings that seamlessly mask dental work.
In addition, patients can receive customized veneers, tailor-made inlays and onlays, and natural-looking composite bonding. Some cosmetic dentists specialize in smile makeovers, a combination of cosmetic dentistry procedures designed to rejuvenate patients' appearances by restoring the mouth. After smile makeovers, patients often boast beautiful, vibrant smiles they cannot help but share.
Many cosmetic dentists also perform a variety of general dentistry procedures, such as teeth cleaning, dental fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals and orthodontics. Dentists who perform both general and cosmetic dentistry are often popular among patients because of convenience.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist for You
Patients seeking a cosmetic dentist have several factors they should consider before selecting a dentist for their procedure. Many patients begin their search for a cosmetic dentist by locating offices within their proximity. Next, they determine if the cosmetic dentist performs the procedures they desire. After patients have identified a local dentist who could treat them, they often look at the dentist's credentials, technologies and before and after pictures. Many take into account the environment of the office and other patient comfort features available. All of these factors are important in order for patients to achieve the stunning smiles they desire.
Cosmetic Dentistry Costs
Cosmetic dentistry costs can vary depending on several aspects, including the dentist's credentials, location of the office, extent of work and cost of materials needed. Procedures that require customized inlays, onlays, veneers and bonding can be pricier than other cosmetic dentistry procedures because of the high quality materials and tailor-made products. The cost of veneers per tooth can range from $900 to $2500 for porcelain and $250 to $1500 for composite.
Patients that require dental implants or dental bridges also have pricy treatments. The cost of dental implants is $1,000 to $5,000 per tooth, with a full mouth reconstruction ranging anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. The cost of dental bridge is $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth. In many instances, dental implants and dental bridges can significantly rejuvenate the face, often making patients look years younger and more refreshed. These treatments are also beneficial to overall dental health and may be covered by dental insurance.
In addition to treating tooth loss, some cosmetic surgeons recommend patients undergo a form of orthodontics to correct for crooked teeth and gaps. Cosmetic dentists who perform orthodontics typically offer dental braces, metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth, or Invisalign, a set of clear, removable teeth aligners. Many patients prefer Invisalign because it is more convenient for their lifestyles. Patients interested in Invisalign cost should be aware that is similar to dental braces, which are about $3,000 to $5,000.
One of the most widely requested cosmetic dentistry procedures is teeth whitening to give patients dazzling, vibrant smiles. While over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are available, in-office teeth whitening offers dramatic results within a shorter period of time. Most in-office teeth whitening systems use laser technology and a whitening gel with a high concentration of peroxide. Depending on the system the cosmetic dentist uses, the cost of teeth whitening can be about $650 per visit.