Ask a Cosmetic Dentist: Are Treatments Painful

Ask a Cosmetic Dentist: Are Treatments Painful from About Dental Care in St. George, UTAdvancements in cosmetic dentistry technology have allowed the cosmetic dentist to offer patients a wide range of treatments to improve and repair smiles. While some might be eager to take advantage of one or more treatments, others might hesitate because of the perceived pain involved. However, prospective patients may gain peace of mind by asking a cosmetic dentistry professional about what to expect during and after each type of treatment.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures

There are a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures to choose from, and each has its own benefits for improving a smile. These vary from clinic to clinic, but most are widely available, including:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Dental implants
  • Veneers
  • Teeth straightening

An initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist can help patients decide which treatments are right for them and offer long-term results. Patients who fear the pain of any of these procedures may be able to gain peace of mind by asking about the steps for each and what can be done about feelings of fear or anxiety while in the dentist’s chair.

Learning what to expect

While each cosmetic dentistry procedure is different, technology and advances in dental medicine have made it possible for patients to remain comfortable for most. For example, teeth whitening is virtually painless and may cause mild sensitivity in the aftermath, but not all patients experience this. Numbing agents are typically used for dental implants, and there may be some discomfort afterward, as this is a type of surgery that involves implanting metal screws into the jawbone to connect the implants.

Patients who want porcelain veneers may have to undergo a bit of preparation that may include the trimming of enamel. This may cause discomfort afterward, but the cosmetic dentist will likely numb the mouth before preparing the teeth so that the veneers fit properly. The amount of preparation tends to vary from patient to patient, but most will likely be informed about the level of discomfort to be expected and offered some tips about how to handle any anxiety before the treatments begin.

Reducing dental anxiety

It is common for patients to experience anxiety over dental treatments, even if they are cosmetic in nature. Oral pain can make it difficult to speak, eat, and rest, so the fear some may feel, despite the positive outcome, is natural. Fortunately, there are a few strategies patients can use to feel more comfortable before sitting in the dentist’s chair.

One way to possibly reduce fear and anxiety over a cosmetic dental treatment is to learn about the procedure from the attending dentist and by gleaning information from trustworthy and informed sources online. Fear often stems from the unknown, so the more knowledgeable patients are about a cosmetic treatment, the less fear they may experience.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist in St. George, UT

Conclusion

We have shown that patients who come to improve their confidence often leave feeling delighted at the ease of the procedures. Thanks to new technology, most treatments are painless and provide those who undergo them with a positive experience.

Request an appointment or call About Dental Care at 435-359-0147 for an appointment in our St. George office.

Recent Posts

Ask A Cosmetic Dentist: Can Veneers Ruin Your Teeth

When it comes to enhancing a patient's smile, a cosmetic dentist may utilize a variety of treatment options to achieve the desired look. One of the most commonly used procedures in cosmetic dentistry is applying veneers to teeth that are permanently discolored, irregularly sized or shaped, or unevenly spaced in the mouth. While this technique…

General Vs. Cosmetic Dentist: Which Is The Better Option

If you need a specific dental procedure done or are looking for a new provider to take care of your smile, it is important to understand whether a general dentist or cosmetic dentist is the right professional for the needed services. While both types of dentists are required to have achieved a doctor of dental…

How A Cosmetic Dentist Places Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a type of prosthetic that can be placed by a cosmetic dentist to improve the shape, color, and overall appearance of a patient’s smile. Used for aesthetic and restorative purposes, veneers consist of a thin shell of porcelain or a different tooth-colored composite material that is attached to the front surface of…

Recent Posts

Foods You Should Avoid After A Smile Makeover

5 Foods You Should Avoid After A Smile Makeover

You may desire to learn ways to keep your smile healthy and bright if you have recently undergone smile makeover procedures such as getting veneers, dental bonding, or teeth whitening. To keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking great for a long time, there are certain foods and drinks to reduce your consumption of…

How A General Dentist Treats Tooth Decay

How A General Dentist Treats Tooth Decay

If you're looking for help from a general dentist to treat tooth decay, there are several things to consider before making an appointment with one to ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible. First, you'll want to find the best dentist for treating tooth decay. The second thing you'll want to do is think…