Thanks to advancements in modern cosmetic dental care, you can have a beautiful smile
easier than ever before. Dentistry is no longer just a case of filling and extracting teeth, as
it was for many years. Nowadays, many people turn to cosmetic dentistry, or 'aesthetic
dentistry', as a way of improving their appearance, much as they would use cosmetic
surgery or even a new hairstyle. The treatments can be used to straighten, lighten, reshape
and repair teeth. Cosmetic dentistry include veneers, crowns, bridges and tooth-coloured
fillings.

Like most services, cost will vary based on the time required and the difficulty of the procedures.
Generally, improving a smile will require a combination of treatment options such as bleaching,
reshaping gums and using bonded materials (resin or porcelain) to improve the appearance of
teeth. A great smile should improve your self-confidence, which can have a positive impact on
the social and professional aspects of your life. Cosmetic dentistry is not just about pretty
smiles though. New techniques and materials are available for back teeth as well as the ones
you see when you smile. Now your mouth can look great, get healthy and function better at the
same time. A smile enhancement can be made to look dramatic and natural at the same time.
Your dentist can use photographs and models to show you what to expect. Sometimes, trial
materials can be placed directly on your teeth to help visualize the change. Ask your dentist
what can be done to give you the smile you desire.

Generally, cemented restorations like dental crowns or veneers (see our procedure section)
will require two visits - one to shape the teeth, and one to cement the restorations to the teeth.
In between, your dentist can place attractive temporary restorations to help prevent sensitivity,
allow function and provide a nice smile. These temporaries are designed to be in your mouth
for a limited time, but should be comfortable and natural looking until you can get your new
smile completed. With good home care and regular visits to your dentist, modern materials
can last for many years and possibly decades. Like most things, excellent maintenance will
extend the life of your dental restorations.

One difference between a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist is that a cosmetic dentist,
before doing any cosmetic dentistry work that involves multiple front teeth, will often perform
a smile design consultation. Cosmetic dentists understand that communication with the
patient over what they expect, what they want their teeth to look like, is critical to their success.
Cosmetic dentistry is a self-esteem service. As such, if the result is not pleasing to the patient,
the treatment is a failure. In order for you to be happy with the result, you need to have strong
input into the artistic planning of your smile.