Cosmetic
Dentist in Lexia

Cosmetic dentistry can enhance the appearance of your smile, but not everyone may be an ideal candidate for these treatments. Here are some common criteria that can help you understand if it might be right for you:

• • Good Oral Health:

    Before undergoing cosmetic dentistry, it’s essential to have healthy teeth and gums. Oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, or infections should be addressed first to avoid complications during or after cosmetic treatments.

  • Realistic Expectations:

    Candidates should have realistic goals regarding the outcome of their cosmetic dental treatment. While cosmetic dentistry can greatly improve your smile, it’s important to understand the limitations of each procedure.

  • Desire to Improve Aesthetics:

    If you’re unhappy with discolouration, gaps, chips, or misalignment in your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can help address these concerns.

  • Commitment to Oral Care:
    After cosmetic treatments, it’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits to preserve the results.

If you meet these criteria, cosmetic dentistry could be a great option to achieve your desired smile. Book your dental appointment at our dental clinic near Lexia today so we can start your journey towards your dream smile.

Cosmetic dentistry is popular for enhancing the aesthetics of your smile. However, for those not interested in it, there are alternatives to consider:

• • Orthodontic Treatment:

    Treatments like traditional braces or clear aligners are designed to address crooked or crowded teeth. Over time, they not only improve oral health but also enhance the appearance of your smile.

  • Restorative Dentistry:

    Restorative procedures can be a suitable option for regaining tooth function and strength. They also improve appearance, though the primary focus is not purely aesthetic.

  • Regular Dental Cleanings:
    Professional cleanings can improve the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth. This preventative treatment also helps maintain your overall dental health.

Like other dental treatments, there are risks and complications associated with cosmetic dentistry procedures.

• • Tooth Sensitivity:

    Procedures that remove tooth enamel can cause increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods like soups and ice cream. This is due to the exposure of underlying dentine after enamel alteration.

  • Gum Irritation:

    Some cosmetic procedures, particularly those involving whitening agents, can irritate the gums. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, or discomfort around the affected area.

  • Damage to Natural Teeth:

    Cosmetic dental treatment options like veneers or crowns require removing a portion of the natural tooth. Over time, this may weaken the tooth or cause it to fracture, leading to additional dental work.

  • Allergic Reactions:

    Some patients may have allergic reactions to materials used in dental restorations, such as metal in crowns, causing discomfort or swelling.

  • Infection:
    As with any dental procedure, there is a risk of infection. Poor aftercare or improper application of materials can result in infection at the treatment site, leading to pain or swelling.

The team of dentists at Ellen Stirling Dental Ellenbrook is dedicated to providing exceptional care. Through detailed assessments, we aim to make our treatments both safe and effective while tailoring them to meet your specific needs.

The different types of cosmetic dental procedures can vary widely in cost.

• • Teeth Whitening:

    Ellen Stirling Dental Ellenbrook offers two different teeth whitening packages:

    • In-Chair Professional Teeth Whitening by PolaOffice Plus:

      You can receive this at our clinic near Lexia for $700 if completed within four weeks of your exam and cleaning.

    • Take-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Kit by PolaDay:

      This is priced at $450, or only $299, when included with your professional dental examination and cleaning appointment.

  • Veneers:

    The cost of dental veneers can vary depending on the material used and the number of teeth.

    • Composite resin veneers:

      Ranges from $400 to $650 per tooth

    • Porcelain veneers:

      Up to $1,500 per tooth

  • Dental Crowns:

    The price of a dental crown differs depending on the type. A full crown (non-metallic or metallic) can cost up to $1,700. Different materials for crowns, such as zirconia or gold, may incur additional expenditures.

  • Dental Bridges:

    Dental bridge costs are determined by factors like bridge type and number of teeth replaced. Treatment can cost from $2,000 to $5,000. An implant-supported bridge, on the other hand, can cost up to $9,000.

  • Smile Makeovers:
    Some smile makeover options are more costly than others. Hence, the total expense depends on the combination of cosmetic dentistry procedures involved and the complexity of the treatment plan.

Cosmetic dentistry offers more than just aesthetic improvements. While the primary goal is to enhance the appearance of your smile, these procedures can also:

• • Boost Confidence:

    By addressing issues in your teeth, cosmetic dentistry helps you feel more comfortable in social and professional situations. It gives you the confidence to smile freely and engage with others.

  • Improve Oral Health:

    Certain cosmetic procedures, such as crowns, enhance the appearance of your teeth and protect them from further damage. By addressing issues like cracks or decay, these treatments improve both the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth.

  • Deliver Long-Lasting Results:

    Cosmetic dental treatments often provide long-lasting results, especially when proper oral hygiene is maintained.

  • Allow for Customised Treatment Plans:

    Whether you need minor adjustments or a complete transformation, your dentist will recommend personalised smile makeover options that fit your goals.

  • Bring Positive Psychological Impact:

    According to a study, an attractive smile can have a positive psychological effect, making you feel happier and more confident. The improvements brought about by cosmetic dentistry can enhance your overall well-being and self-perception.

Teeth whitening usually lasts one to three years, depending on factors like:

• • Oral Hygiene Practices:

    Brushing and flossing regularly helps remove plaque buildup and surface stains, keeping your teeth whiter for longer. Regular cleanings with your dentist also play a significant role.

  • Dietary Habits:

    Foods and drinks like berries, red wine, tea, and coffee can cause staining on your teeth over time. Limiting their intake can help preserve your white teeth.

  • Lifestyle Choices:

    Smoking or using tobacco products stains teeth and accelerates the discolouration process, making whitening results fade faster. Quitting smoking can significantly prolong the effects.

  • Whitening Products:

    Using whitening toothpaste or at-home tooth whitening kits helps maintain the results by keeping surface stains at bay and preserving brightness.

For more tips on maintaining your bright smile after teeth whitening, connect with our experienced team near Lexia. We’re here to provide professional advice and personalised care to keep your smile radiant for longer.

For our cosmetic services at Ellen Stirling Dental Ellenbrook, we have the following payment plans available:

• • Health Funds:

    Some health funds may offer covers for specific types of cosmetic dental procedures. The extent of benefits depends on the individual policy, so it’s important to check with your provider to understand what’s included.

  • Afterpay:

    Afterpay lets patients divide their dental treatment costs into four equal, interest-free payments over two-week intervals. This makes it easier to manage the expenses of cosmetic procedures in the short term.

  • Children Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS):

    This government scheme grants eligible children aged 2 to 17 up to $1,000 in dental care over two years. It can sometimes be applied to dental services addressing aesthetic and oral health concerns.

  • Metropolitan Patients Dental Subsidy Scheme:

    This subsidy program is for metropolitan patients needing urgent dental care. While it focuses on general care, some cosmetic procedures might be covered if necessary for health reasons.

  • SuperCare:

    SuperCare allows patients to access their superannuation early to cover significant dental costs, including cosmetic procedures. It provides financial relief for treatments that may otherwise be difficult to afford upfront.

  • Fund My Dental:

    Fund My Dental offers an interest-free weekly payment plan for dental treatments. Patients can choose affordable instalments of $39 or $79, making it easier to budget for their dental expenses over time.

  • Openpay:

    Openpay offers interest-free payment plans, allowing patients to distribute dental treatment costs over 2 to 24 months. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for covering higher-priced cosmetic dental procedures without immediate financial strain.

Consult our friendly team today if you’re considering cosmetic dentistry in Lexia. We’re here to provide all the information you need regarding the financial aspects of our dental care services. We’ll guide you through the available payment options, making the process easy and stress-free.

Health funds usually do not cover cosmetic dental treatments, which are considered non-essential procedures to improve appearance. However, some types of cosmetic dental procedures may be partially covered if they serve aesthetic and functional purposes.

It’s important to carefully review your policy to determine the extent of your cover. Also, consult your provider to verify if any cosmetic treatments are included. Policies can vary, and some procedures may be excluded based on classification.