The Importance of Using a Licensed Dentist for Cosmetic Dental Procedures
In the age of social media, it’s easier than ever to find seemingly affordable and convenient cosmetic dental treatments. Whether these are DIY – or promoted by a third party – it’s crucial to approach these services with caution, especially when they’re offered by individuals who are not licensed dentists.
We recently came across several Instagram pages promoting teeth whitening, bonding, and veneers. While these treatments can be effective when performed by qualified professionals like Dr. Alrez, there are significant risks associated with non-dental practitioners offering whitening, bonding, or veneer services, such as:
- Lack of Dental Hygiene. One of the most concerning issues we observed was the lack of proper dental hygiene before the procedures. Many of the images showed teeth with visible plaque and calculus, which should be addressed before any cosmetic treatments. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to serious dental problems, including gum disease and tooth decay.
- Harmful Techniques. Some of the techniques used by non-dental professionals can be harmful to the teeth. For example, the practice of “etching” teeth to improve whitening results can cause significant damage to the enamel, leaving teeth rough and sensitive.
- Damage to Enamel. Many DIY, over-the-counter, or non-licensed services also use chemicals or products that eat away the enamel. While your teeth may look ‘whiter’ for a few days, the enamel will break down. This damage is permanent.
- Unknown Dental History. A licensed dentist does their due diligence when it comes to your oral health history. From X-rays to bi-yearly exams, your dental team has a good idea of issues that could arise from cosmetic procedures. When you go to a non-licensed dentist, your history is unknown, and so are the risks. This could put you in more danger of infection, abscesses, or other medical conditions.
- Inadequate Preparation: Dentists conduct thorough examinations to assess oral health and ensure proper preparation for veneers. Non-professionals may overlook underlying dental issues, leading to complications.
- Incorrect Bonding: Applying veneers requires precision and skill to achieve a natural-looking result. Non-professionals may lack the expertise to bond veneers securely, leading to potential chipping, cracking, or dislodgement.
- Unnatural Appearance: Veneers should blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Non-professionals may lack the artistic skill to achieve a natural-looking result.
Your Oral Health is Worth It
It’s essential to remember that cosmetic dental procedures require expertise and precision. Licensed dentists have the training and experience to assess your oral health, address any underlying issues, and perform these procedures safely and effectively. Dr. Alrez has been a licensed dentist since 1998 and is a member of the National Dentist Association. Not only is she highly educated and experienced, but she is committed to ongoing education to provide the best treatment to her patients that is safe and effective.
Remember, your smile is precious. Don’t risk its health and appearance by seeking non-professional dental services – even if it means saving a few bucks. Your oral health is worth it, and so is your peace of mind. If you are considering a cosmetic dental treatment, schedule a consult with Dr. Alrez and her professional team first.
