Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dentistry dedicated to the synergy of art and science to enhance a person’s smile, overall appearance and oral health.

The ever-increasing demand for appearance enhancing dental care has lead to an explosion of products and services available to the public. Now, more than ever, it is important to be well informed so you can make sound, educated decisions and avoid disappointments, enabling you to get the results you want.

First and foremost, before considering any cosmetic treatment, you should ensure your dental health is stable. Always eliminate any active disease and/or breakdown in your teeth and gums, optimizing your smile then becomes more predictable, cost effective and long lasting. Simply stated, would you want to build your house on an unstable foundation?

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a range of procedures from simple to complex, including:

• Whitening: popularity understandable––fast if not immediate results depending on method. Whitening procedures lighten the color of teeth (existing restorations will not whiten). This can be done via an in-office treatment or a dentist-supervised at-home or in-office system.  Uses: Stained, discoloured or dull teeth.
• Veneers: These are thin, custom-made porcelain laminates, which are bonded to the teeth. They can change the shape, length and color of teeth.  Uses: Correct chipped, mis-shapen, gapped, worn-down, or stained teeth that don't respond to tooth whitening.  
• Tooth-coloured Fillings, Onlays and Inlays: Used where decay or old unsightly restorations are present. Such decay or fillings can be replaced by natural-coloured porcelain or composite materials, which are bonded to the teeth.  
• Crowns, Bridges, and Implants: These procedures are recommended where more extensive restorations are needed and are often used to replace missing teeth. A crown is a cap or cover used to replace the missing or damaged portions of a tooth. Crowns and bridges can also correct bite dysfunction. A bridge is a fixed dental appliance cemented or bonded to teeth that have been prepared to provide anchor supports adjacent to a missing tooth. Implants are essentially artificial roots placed into the bone to support crowns, bridges and dentures.
• Enamel Shaping: This procedure involves minor modification of teeth to improve their appearance by removing or contouring enamel. The process, which is often combined with bonding, usually is quick, comfortable and the results can be seen immediately.
• Braces are not just for kids. Orthodontics may be needed if teeth are crooked, crowded or do not meet properly. Orthodontics can reduce the need for more invasive forms of restorative treatment and improve the final result of your smile.
• Gingival Shaping is used to improve any areas of asymmetry, excessive or inadequate gum tissue to allow a more harmonious relationship between the teeth and gums.

The Cost of cosmetic dental work depends on your needs and how much treatment you require. Like any process, costs will increase with the amount of product or services you desire. We can explain the various prices and the best option for you. At first glance, cosmetic dentistry may seem to offer primarily aesthetic benefits. However, of greater value is when an improved smile can provide emotional and health benefits boosting self-esteem and confidence. Investment in cosmetic dentistry is an investment in you.

There is no simpler, more profound expression of goodwill and happiness than a smile. It is available to us all.

These are general guidelines, for informational purposes only and not meant to encompass and explain all aspects of cosmetic dentistry but encourage you to think before you act.   Always consult your dentist to discuss your specific needs prior to any treatment.

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