Today, it’s easier than ever to get the smile you’ve always wanted. Studies indicate that whiter, brighter and straighter smiles are the signs of more successful, attractive people, and the cosmetic dentistry field has taken notice. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind if you’re considering having work done.

What is a dental implant?

Unlike a dental veneer (which is just a cosmetic covering) or a dental crown (which is more of a temporary solution), a dental implant is very much a permanent, long-term fix to the problem of a missing tooth. In fact, during this kind of cosmetic dental work, a cosmetic dentist takes a titanium screw and embeds it into the jawbone of the missing tooth, creating an entirely new root. Then, the prosthetic tooth is attached to the screw and become a new part of your smile.

So implants are definitely better than veneers?

That’s hard to say because they serve two different purposes. While the best dental implants last a lifetime and have a 98% success rate, veneers aren’t really meant to be an actual replacement for a tooth. Rather, veneers can cover up severe tooth damage like cracks or holes at a price that’s more affordable than yanking out the old tooth and putting in a replacement.

Are dental implants a one-size-fits-all kind of treatment option?

Absolutely not! In fact, the top dental implants dentists in the world have created what are called mini implants, smaller versions that perform the exact same function. Instead of having to suffer through a set of teeth too big for your mouth, you can get the same benefits only on a smaller scale — that’s the benefits of mini dental implants. The mini implants costs is typically around the same as the regular procedure, too.

Let’s talk costs, then. What kind of bill are we looking at here?

It all very much depends on what kind of cosmetic dental work you get done, where it’s performed, what kind of insurance plan you have, et cetera. However, since most cosmetic procedures are elective, you’re likely looking at an out-of-pocket payment of somewhere around $5,000 — at least according to the averages. It’s very much in your best interest to discuss all the kind of business (especially when it comes to dental or mini implants costs) with your dentist before you sit down in the chair for the procedure. More on this topic.