Cosmetic Dentistry Columbia, MD
A Brighter, More Beautiful Smile Is Within Reach
For our patients who feel self-conscious about their smiles, and like they would prefer to hide their teeth instead of let them show, we offer expert cosmetic dentistry in Columbia. Dr. Santos has ample experience in creating aesthetically beautiful smiles, whether that’s with injectables like BOTOX® and dermal fillers or veneers. To learn which treatment option can help you achieve your dream smile, call our office today to schedule a consultation.
Why Choose Dental Designs of Maryland - Columbia, MD for Cosmetic Dentistry?
- Cosmetic Dentist with Advanced Training
- Full Transformations with Smile Makeovers
- Dermal Fillers & BOTOX® Also Available
Veneers
Dental veneers are able to fully conceal a number of aesthetic imperfections with a single treatment, making it ideal for our patients who are looking for more dramatic results. It can also be used to improve the appearance of one or a few individual teeth, making it incredibly versatile. These thin, durable sheaths are typically crafted from porcelain or ceramic, and they’re made to fit over the visible front surface of teeth to reveal a brighter, more symmetrical, and beautiful grin.
Metal-Free Restorations
In the past, dental restorations were crafted from metals and amalgams that were known to cause dental sensitivity and were highly noticeable. Our team wants you to enjoy a smile that looks as great as it feels, which is why we craft our crowns, fillings and other restorations from high-quality, natural-looking materials. Not only are these virtually unnoticeable to onlookers, but they’re also designed to continue protecting your smile for years to come!
Teeth Whitening
Dental discoloration is one of the most common cosmetic dental flaws that we treat. Whether it’s aging, taking certain medications, or habits that are causing your teeth to look yellow, we offer Zoom! in-office teeth whitening to quickly, safely, and effectively brighten your smile by up to eight shades. All it takes is a single hour-long visit to our office!
Learn More About Teeth Whitening
Smile Makeovers
With Dr. Santos’ extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry, we’re able to offer complete smile makeovers at Dental Designs of Maryland - Columbia, MD. From facial injectables like BOTOX, Xeomin, and dermal fillers to comprehensive veneers and teeth whitening, we can design a customized treatment plan to help beautify your smile. We can also work within your budget and timeline to make sure you get the results you want, when you need them.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Dental insurance policies can often be a simple and effective way to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for different services, but unfortunately, most of them don’t include cosmetic procedures that are intended to enhance your appearance more than your dental health.
But there may be exceptions, or your policy might contribute to different aspects of your treatment, such as your examination or any necessary imaging, so it’s worth checking your information before arriving. Our office in Columbia accepts over 90% of major dental PPO plans and is happy to work with other policies. We also offer an in-house membership and welcome flexible payment plans through Cherry to help make your elective services more affordable.
How do I know if I need cosmetic dentistry?
Are you 100% pleased with the way your smile looks when you see your reflection in the mirror? If not, you might benefit from one or more cosmetic services, but that doesn’t mean that each treatment option is right for everyone.
You must schedule a consultation with one of our compassionate providers before proceeding, so that we can discuss your aesthetic concerns and smile goals. We must also examine your current dental condition to devise a customized treatment plan to meet your unique needs. For example, some severe dental stains might not respond to topical teeth whitening, so we might recommend veneers instead.
Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?
You’re not alone if you tend to avoid dental visits because you’re scared your treatment might hurt, but when it comes to cosmetic dentistry, that’s not usually the case. In fact, these services are usually considered minimally invasive because there’s typically no need for needles or numbing.
With that said, some patients experience temporary sensitivity after certain procedures, such as teeth whitening, which expands the microscopic pores in your teeth and allows sensations (like hot and cold temperatures) to travel more easily to trigger the sensitive nerves inside. Thinning enamel for veneers to fit correctly may also cause short-term soreness for similar reasons. These symptoms usually resolve on their own after a few days and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
How long will the results last?
Cosmetic dentistry can involve an investment of time and personal resources, and it’s only natural to wonder if the results will last long enough to be worth it. But their lifespan can depend significantly on your unique circumstances, habits, and routines.
For instance, teeth whitening tends to last for 6 months to 3 years, though it may require periodic retreatment to maintain the perfect hue. Most patients can also help extend the results by brushing and flossing twice daily, avoiding darkly colored foods, and scheduling a routine checkup and cleaning at our office every 6 months. Meanwhile, veneers can last 5 to 20+ years with proper care and maintenance.