Know Some FAQs About Cosmetic Dentistry

Your smile is often the first thing people notice, whether you’re at a family gathering or a professional meeting. To make a positive impression, it’s important to care for both your dental health and any cosmetic enhancements you might need. At Icon Dental, we provide both general and cosmetic dentistry, helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile. But what’s different about cosmetic dentistry?

To clear up the confusion, here are answers to common FAQs about cosmetic dentistry.

What is the difference between general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry?

• General dentistry focuses on diagnosing and treating oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and fractures. This involves repairing damaged teeth, removing decay, and educating patients on maintaining their oral health at home.

Once your teeth and gums are healthy, cosmetic dentistry helps enhance the appearance of your smile. At Icon Dental, this includes treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, inlays, bonding, braces, and dental implants. The goal is to give you a smile that not only functions well but that you’re proud to show off.

Do cosmetic treatments affect my oral health?

• Cosmetic procedures begin with ensuring your oral health is in top shape. Your dentist will address any underlying issues before starting any cosmetic work. Once your dental health is stable, treatments like crowns, veneers, implants, or even Invisalign aligners will enhance your smile. Regular checkups and proper oral hygiene will help keep your smile healthy in the long term.

Can a cosmetic dentist fix my crooked teeth?

• Yes. A cosmetic dentist at Icon Dental can help with misaligned teeth, whether slightly crooked or more severe. For minor alignment issues, porcelain veneers are often a great option. If your teeth are more misaligned or if there’s a bite issue, Invisalign clear aligners can help straighten your teeth, giving you a healthier and more confident smile.

What other reasons do people have for seeing a cosmetic dentist?

People visit cosmetic dentists for various reasons, including:

• Damaged teeth (chips, cracks)
• Discoloration or staining
• Misshapen teeth
• Missing teeth

What are implants?

• Dental implants are one of the most advanced solutions for missing or severely damaged teeth. They’re permanent and provide unmatched stability. Titanium posts are surgically placed in the jaw where teeth are missing.

Once healed, a crown is added to complete the restoration, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. While the process can take up to a year, the results are long-lasting, and your dentist will provide a personalized timeline based on your needs.

Will people be able to tell that I’ve had cosmetic dentistry work done?

• Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, treatments at Icon Dental are discreet and natural-looking. The materials used for crowns, veneers, and bonding resins are expertly color-matched to your natural teeth, making it nearly impossible for others to notice the difference. The glossy finish of these treatments closely resembles the natural shine of your teeth, ensuring a flawless result.

Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dental work?

• Anyone looking to enhance the appearance of their smile with cosmetic dental procedures is a good candidate, as long as they’re in good physical health and have no underlying issues that could interfere with the treatment.

We recommend waiting until you’re at least 18 years old to begin cosmetic work, as this allows you to make decisions based on the appearance of your adult teeth rather than waiting until later.

At Icon Dental Center, we provide the best dental healthcare in Everett and Seattle. Browse our website for a detailed list of cosmetic dentistry services, or call us at 206-225-2882 for a consultation or a booking.