If you are thinking about getting into the dentist’s chair for some cosmetic dental work there are a few things you should know and do before you get started, to avoid putting yourself at risk.
Before you do anything, it might be a good idea to talk to your dentist.
Talking to your dentist is the only way to make sure both you, and your dentist, know exactly what you want from your dental work. The success of the procedure will be hinged on the quality of dialogue that precedes it. Make sure you ask your dentist any questions you might have and give them us much information as possible about what you want out of the procedure. This way your dentist will be able to give you advice on a package of procedures and care best suited to your individual requirements. It will also cut down the chances of disappointment and possible corrective procedures.
For example, you might want to talk to your dentist about pain management. Not all cosmetic dentistry will result in pain, but it can be a problem with more intrusive procedures. Again talk to your dentist about what to expect and follow any guidelines regarding medication that will be needed. Some pain relieving medication can leave you drowsy and unable to drive, so it may be advisable to arrange for a friend or family member to take you to and from your appointment.
There are risks involved with all cosmetic dentistry, though they vary depending on the procedure, for example teeth that have been whitened may become more prone to discolouration than non-whitened teeth when exposed to staining substances, such as coffee, tea or tobacco. Your teeth may also become increasingly sensitive after the teeth whitening procedure. This sensitivity would usually be expected to disappear within 1-2 days of the treatments completion.
Having porcelain veneers placed onto your teeth is completely irreversible. Thin sheets of fired porcelain veneers will be bonded onto the front surface of your teeth. Prior to the placing of a veneer onto the tooth, a thin layer of your own tooth’s natural enamel must be removed from the front of the tooth. This enamel cannot be replaced once it is removed, meaning you will permanently have veneers covering your teeth. Veneers may fall off if they have not been secured properly, leaving an ugly gap in your smile until you can have your dentist replace it.
Finally, consider your budget. Cosmetic dentistry is not always expensive, but it can be. Make sure you have enough money to see the procedure through to completion and always keep enough money aside for any emergency work that you may need later. It may be worth your while to consider getting appropriate dental cover before getting into the dentist’s chair. You never know when something might go wrong with your teeth and it is unlikely that you will want to go about your daily business with an ugly or painful mouth until you can save up the money to return to your dentist.