When it comes to pre-wedding pampering, high on the list of many brides — and grooms, too — is a better, brighter smile. Consider this: for many people, their wedding is the most photographed day of their life. Why not start off a new chapter with a new set of teeth, as well?
Better teeth can represent a less drastic measure for brides who want an updated look, but who shy away from plastic surgery. New teeth don’t need to comprise a huge percentage of the wedding budget, either. The average cost of teeth whitening, for example, is $200 — more than a manicure, but less than the average cake.
If you’re ready to indulge a bit for your wedding day, then here are a few procedures — and facts — that you should keep in mind.
Teeth Whitening
- How can you get teeth as white as your dress? Teeth whitening is fairly simple, and can be done within the space of a single appointment. A dentist will apply a layer of hydrogen peroxide to your teeth, which will break down stains in your teeth’s dentin. Light may be used to accelerate the process.
- What’s the difference between getting your teeth whitened at a dentist, and getting store-bought treatment? Although the cost of teeth whitening at home will be lower, you’ll also see less dramatic results, as manufacturers are limited as to what concentration of hydrogen peroxide (the main ingredient) they can place on the shelf.
- With good upkeep (daily brushing, limited coffee and smoking) the effects can last a long time, though one to two years is more average.
Veneers
- If you need more extensive cosmetic dental work, veneers might be the way to go — they can completely transform your smile. Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that a dentist bonds to the surface of your teeth.
- Veneers can cover a wide range of problems, including small teeth, extensive staining, gaps, and cracks.
- Veneers are not permanent and typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. As far as cosmetic dentistry prices go, they are not as cheap as other procedures, costing about $900 per tooth.
Dental Implants
- Want to avoid having a gap-toothed smile on your wedding day, but prefer to skip the hassle of dentures? Dental implants are permanent and mimic the look and feel of real teeth.
- Implants consist of a titanium rod inserted into the tooth’s socket, with a false tooth affixed to the top. Caring for the implant consists of little more than proper brushing and flossing.
- Dental implant costs vary, but are usually from $2,000 to $4,000 per implant. Insurance does not usually cover this type of cosmetic dental work.
What type of cosmetic dental work would you consider for your wedding? Let us know in the comments.
