Cosmetic Dentistry - Schenectady, NY • Capital District

Which Cosmetic Dental Service Is Right for Me?

Most people who are interested in cosmetic dentistry wish to achieve whiter teeth, straighter teeth, or differently/sized shaped teeth. Whatever your aesthetic goals are, we can help you achieve them. Here is an overview of some popular services, along with generalized pricing information:

• Cosmetic bonding. Cosmetic bonding, also known as direct bonding, involves the use of a tooth-colored resin that we mold onto teeth. It can disguise a range of flaws, and it takes just one appointment to place. It is also quite affordable. The downside is that it tends to last for just a few years.
• Teeth whitening. Whitening services can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a thousand dollars or more. This fast and effective treatment provides results that can last for up to a few years with proper maintenance.
• The cost of Invisalign and other teeth-straightening treatments can vary quite a bit, but they usually run a few thousand dollars or more.
• Smile makeover. This comprehensive treatment plan tends to be the most expensive cosmetic option because it involves multiple procedures. However, it is an excellent value.

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Be an Investment Worth Making

Cosmetic dentistry can seem like a big financial commitment, but it can also rightly be viewed as an investment. In return for your money, you get more than just a beautiful smile. You can enjoy increased confidence. You may also notice improvements in your social and professional lives. If you have straight, white, attractive teeth, you are more likely to be viewed as successful, approachable, and youthful.

How to Make Cosmetic Dentistry Affordable

Dental insurance usually does not cover services that are targeted solely at improving the appearance of teeth. However, if a treatment will both enhance your smile and improve your oral health, your policy might cover it. That is often the case with metal-free restorations.

If your insurance will not help you pay for your cosmetic treatments, there may be other provisions you can use to make your care more affordable. For example, we are partnered with CareCredit, a third-party lending company. Most patients qualify for low-interest financing after a brief and easy application process. As your cosmetic dentist in Schenectady, we also offer a FREE smile makeover consultation, so you can get started on your path to a new look for absolutely nothing out of pocket.

Are you ready to learn more about cosmetic dentistry and its cost? Get in touch today to request an appointment. We look forward to serving you!

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Expensive?

Cosmetic treatments are available at a range of price points, from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Depending on what your budget is, we can suggest the services that are likely to give you the best bang for your buck. We can also assist you as you explore how financing and other provisions may make it easier for you to afford your desired treatments.

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Safe?

Generally speaking, cosmetic dentistry is very safe. As long as you entrust your smile to a qualified dental team, there is very little risk that anything will go wrong with your treatment. However, if you try DIY hacks to improve your smile, such as at-home braces or abrasive teeth whitening formulas, you could accidentally harm yourself. It is best to rely on the guidance from a dentist whom you trust.

How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Last?  

How long your results last will depend on which treatments you undergo and how you care for your smile. Whitening and bonding may last for just a couple of years. The results of Invisalign are meant to last a lifetime.

Our team will give you pointers on how you can help your new look stand the test of time. For example, we will encourage you to stick to a thorough oral hygiene routine, avoid smoking, and eat a reasonable diet. If you tend to grind your teeth at night, we may also urge you to start sleeping with a custom nightguard in your mouth.

Does Cosmetic Dentistry Hurt?

Our team goes above and beyond to make our patients comfortable. Most cosmetic procedures are noninvasive and quite comfortable. However, for some treatments, we numb the mouth. If you are not easily numbed or you are extra-nervous about treatment, ask us if you are a candidate for sedation. Following a cosmetic treatment, you may notice that your teeth are a bit extra sensitive. This usually goes away within a few days.

How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Change Your Life?

At first, it might seem frivolous to spend time and money on making cosmetic improvements to your smile. In reality, though, cosmetic dentistry has some powerful benefits that might actually change your life! Here are a few examples of how it might do that:

• Improve your oral health. Cosmetic dentistry is primarily about aesthetics, but some treatments also have significant oral health benefits. For example, Invisalign can reduce your risk of issues like TMJ disorder and cavities. Even a treatment as simple as whitening might motivate you to take good care of your teeth.
• Improve your confidence. Cosmetic dentistry may change the way you interact with the world. You might find the confidence you need to take healthy risks at work, go on dates, or do other things that you used to hold back from.

What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?

All cosmetic dentists are, first and foremost, dentists. They must complete dental school and keep up with current licensing requirements. Any dentist can call themselves a cosmetic dentist if they offer treatments that are designed to enhance the appearance of the teeth and/or gums.

Often, dentists who focus on cosmetic services undergo additional training and offer a wider range of aesthetic treatments than general oral health practitioners. For example, Dr. Page offers Invisalign and gummy smile correction, which are not available at many dental offices.

How Do I Choose a Cosmetic Dentist?

Because cosmetic dentistry is not recognized as an official specialty, choosing a cosmetic dentist might be a bit challenging. Here are some tips to help:

• Perform a Google search for “cosmetic dentist in Schenectady.”
• Compare reviews of your options, and see which treatments each dentist offers.
• Look at before and after photos so you can get an idea of the results that each dentist typically provides.
• Browse their websites to find out what kind of technology they use, how much experience they have, etc.
• Find out what sort of payment options are available.
• Do not hesitate to call cosmetic dental offices if you have questions about what you can expect as their patient.
• Choose your cosmetic dentist based on your personal preferences and values.

Can I Replace a Metal Crown with a Tooth-Colored One?

While replacing an old crown is not a decision that should be taken lightly, yes, in many cases, it is possible to replace an old metal crown with a tooth-colored one. If you would like to do this, book a consultation with Dr. Page. She will examine your mouth, order some X-rays, and let you know what she recommends.

Very often, replacing an old metal crown with a non-metal, tooth-colored one has significant benefits. In addition to enhancing your smile, you might also find that you are less prone to dental sensitivity. Metal-free crowns are also less likely to leak than metal ones, meaning that you may be at a lower risk of future oral health problems.

How Do I Know If I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?

In most cases, the desire to get cosmetic dentistry is a purely personal decision. You might benefit from aesthetic services if:

• You feel self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth.
• Your teeth have significant stains or discoloration.
• You have noticeable gaps, chips, or other aesthetic issues in your smile.
• You have overgrown gum tissue that makes your teeth appear unusually short.

During a consultation, Dr. Page will let you know if cosmetic dentistry is a good fit for your unique situation and goals.