Cosmetic Dentistry Can Give Anyone the Smile of Their Dreams
Thanks to advancements in modern dental care, a variety of options are available to help any person have a dazzling new smile more easily today than ever before.

Today's top cosmetic dental treatment options include:
Whitening - The most commonly prescribed cosmetic dental procedure, many whitening options are now available to consumers in a wide range of prices. Dentist-supervised treatments remain the AACD recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

Bonding - An option for chipped or cracked teeth, bonding is a process in which an enamel-like material is applied to a tooth's surface, sculpted into shape, hardened, and then polished for an ideal smile.

Implants - A replacement for dentures, implants are a stronger, more attractive option for replacing missing or lost teeth. An anchor is placed in the patient's jaw, and a life-like ceramic restoration is built around it and matched to the original tooth color.

Veneers - An increasingly popular procedure, veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made laminates that are affixed directly to the teeth. They are a great option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that did not respond well to whitening procedures.

As with any dental procedure, the AACD recommends consumers consult with their dentist before undergoing any cosmetic dental treatment. For a glossary of all cosmetic dental procedures, click here.

I know my smile needs some work, but I'm not sure if I can afford to have cosmetic dental work done.
The cost of cosmetic dental work depends on how much work you want done. Like any cosmetic process, costs will increase with the amount of product or services you desire. A cosmetic dentist can explain various prices and the best procedure for you. Also, some cosmetic dental options are covered by insurance. Cosmetic dental work is probably not as expensive as you think. Investment in cosmetic dentistry is an investment in you. It can lead to an improved dental appearance and help improve self-esteem and overall confidence.

Most of my teeth are bunched too near the front of my mouth. Is there a way to get rid of that crowded look?
With removable orthodontics, cosmetic contouring, and/or bonding and veneering, teeth can be reshaped and polished for long-lasting results: a stronger, less crowded-looking appearance.

My back teeth have a lot of silver and gold. Is there a less obvious way to fill cavities?
New advances in tooth-colored porcelain and composite materials not only allow fillings to go unnoticed, but are stronger and more wear-resistant than silver and gold.

There's a big gap between my two front teeth. Can that be changed?
Yes. Bonded veneers can close gaps and help create the smile you desire. Bonded resins generally require one office visit, while porcelain veneering takes two. Bonded veneers, along with good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, are effective ways to enhance a smile. A cosmetic dentist can explain the various techniques and help determine which is the best suited to your specific needs.

How can I make my discolored teeth whiter?
Tooth whitening, the process for lightening discolored teeth, can be accomplished in the dentist's office or with dentist-supervised, at-home systems. Teeth can be whitened to the desired shade over several office visits. At-home systems should be individually fitted by a cosmetic dentist.

Taken from material provided by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.