Cosmetic Dentistry – New Lenox

Which Cosmetic Dental Service Is Right for Me? 

Choosing the appropriate cosmetic service will depend on which type of dental imperfections you want to address. In general, cosmetic dentistry patients are usually trying to achieve whiter teeth, straighter teeth, or differently shaped/sized teeth. Dr. Albert, Dr. Stylski, or Dr. Snow can help you explore possible options, such as:

• Direct Bonding – Often the cheapest cosmetic option, bonding is great for small changes like reshaping damaged teeth or concealing small chips. Bonding typically must be touched up every few years.
• Veneers – Veneers cost more than other options but can transform multiple aspects of one’s smile all at once. Veneers can also last for over a decade with proper care.
• Teeth Whitening – Although professional teeth whitening can’t help with tooth shape or position, it can still deliver dramatic aesthetic results in a single appointment.
• Smile Makeover – Do you have multiple dental flaws? Tackle them all at once with a smile makeover! This option is more expensive but is also the easiest way to achieve your dream smile in a condensed timeframe!

Cosmetic Dentistry Can Be an Investment Worth Making

Enhancing your smile with a cosmetic dentist in New Lenox can seem like a big financial commitment. However, it’s an investment that will pay dividends for many years to come. Our smiles are often the first thing other people notice about us. For patients who feel self-conscious about their teeth, a cosmetic dental procedure can boost their self-esteem. Greater confidence can then lead to a more active social life, more successful romantic life, and even better professional opportunities. An improved quality of life absolutely makes cosmetic dentistry an investment work making.

How to Make Cosmetic Dentistry Affordable

Most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dentistry. However, there are various ways to enhance your smile without putting stress on your budget. For example, you could join the Smile Saver Club, our affordable, in-house dental savings plan! A one-time activation fee plus low monthly payments includes complete preventive care for a year and a 10% discount on all other treatments.

Qualified patients can also access flexible dental financing through CareCredit. A trusted partner, CareCredit provides low-to-no interest payment plans for cosmetic procedures and other extensive dental work. By breaking down the cost of veneers, bonding, or other cosmetic care into smaller chunks, you can enhance your smile now and pay the costs over time.

At Atrium Family Dental of New Lenox, we believe every patient deserves the beautiful smile of their dreams. Schedule a consultation with one of our expert dentists to learn more about the cost of cosmetic dentistry in New Lenox and different payment options.

How are veneers different from crowns?

Although crowns and veneers look similar, they are very different. A crown is used in restorative dentistry to repair a tooth by covering the entire surface above the gumline. A veneer is thinner than a crown, and it only covers the front side of a tooth. It’s used for elective purposes to improve the overall color, size, and shape of a tooth.

How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?

We don’t use cookie-cutter treatment plans because every patient’s needs are unique. As a result, there isn’t any way to determine how much you’ll pay without first performing a consultation. Based on the complexity of your needs and goals, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan and provide you with an estimate. You’ll know exactly what you’ll need to pay before committing to any procedure. A member of our team will take the time to explain the fees and your payment options. We offer several solutions to keep your dream smile within your budget, like third-party financing. After your credit’s approval, you are given the funds for your procedure, which you’ll repay using a plan that fits your finances.

How long will my results last?

Specific treatments have different lifespans. For example, veneers are proven to last for a decade or longer with the proper aftercare, while a whitening treatment may only be effective for a few months under some circumstances. We’ll explain how long you can expect your results to last. You can take several steps to ensure your investment thrives for years, like maintaining your oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. You’ll also want to avoid anything that might damage your smile, like using your teeth as tools or chewing on inedible objects. Rest assured, our office only uses the best materials to ensure your smile flourishes for years.

Can I use my dental insurance for cosmetic dentistry?

It is rare for a dental insurance to pay for cosmetic dentistry because the procedures are considered elective. However, there is a little gray area. Many cosmetic treatments also provide restorative benefits and vice versa, like dental crowns. As a result, if a procedure is deemed necessary for your dental health, you may be able to use your coverage to offset the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket. After reaching your annual deductible, your policy can cover 50% to 80% of the cost until hitting your yearly limit. We’ll work on your behalf with your insurance company to file the necessary claim forms. If applicable, we’ll help you maximize your dental insurance to lower the cost of your new smile.

What Exactly is Cosmetic Dentistry?

As a dental subfield, cosmetic dentistry focuses on your grin’s looks. Its treatments try to make your teeth prettier and more appealing.

Naturally, cosmetic dental work is best for people with smile flaws. The treatments on offer – teeth whitening, metal-free restorations, dental bonding, etc. – can correct all sorts of imperfections. (These latter problems include stained teeth, tooth chips, cracks, and even misalignment.) Once they have, the treated patient will see a boost in their appearance and confidence. Do note, though, that any preventive benefits will be minimal.

Why is Cosmetic Dentistry so Popular?

Really, there are three sources of cosmetic dentistry’s popularity: new technology, better oral health, and flexible financing.

Regarding technology, modern dentistry has made many advancements in the last few decades. Such changes helped cosmetic dental work become more effective. As such, people are more willing to try what aesthetic dentists can offer.

On the other hand, note that people today have better oral health than in years past. They thus don’t need to focus as much on preventive care. Instead, they can prioritize making their grin look prettier.

Lastly, cosmetic dentistry is popular due to allowing for flexible smiling. As a result, you can pay for a procedure gradually – over some months or more – rather than buy as you want.

How Do I Know If I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?

In most cases, a patient who’s not thrilled with their smile can benefit from cosmetic care. The latter works effectively over just a day or two. In doing so, it greatly beautifies your teeth and mouth.

You see, cosmetic work is excellent at hiding smile flaws. Stained teeth, for instance, can be corrected with professional whitening. Meanwhile, crowns and veneers cover defects with high-quality porcelain. You can even get a “smile makeover” that addresses all your tooth imperfections at once.

All that said, the best way to confirm treatment candidacy is to see us in person. Our dentists will examine your mouth to see if aesthetic work suits you. From there, they can make helpful suggestions and recommendations.

How Do I Choose a Cosmetic Dentist?

The American Dental Association doesn’t view cosmetic dentistry as an “official” specialty. Consequently, you may struggles hard to find a dentist with the right credentials. Fortunately enough, though, there are qualifying factors you can look for. These are the following:

• The Dentist’s Membership(s) – When a dentist belongs to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), they’ll know the latest cosmetic dental techniques.
• Before & After Photos – Before committing to treatment, you should look at a dentist’s before and after photos of previous patients. Focus mainly on “before” pictures of the same issues you have.
• Dentist Reviews – Lastly, look into a prospective dentist’s patient reviews. These assessments will help you grasp how a dental practice operates. In particular, see if the office in question welcomes you.