Having the perfect smile is a dream for many people. They want their teeth to be white and straight, with no gaps or chips. Luckily, cosmetic dentistry has become more popular than ever with advancements in procedures and technology. A cosmetic dentist is able to make these dreams come true.

Cosmetic Dentistry: How to Achieve a Perfect Smile

Cosmetic dentistry is a method of professional oral care that focuses on improving the appearance (though sometimes the function) of teeth and the overall mouth and smile. Some of the most common cosmetic dental treatments include teeth whitening, veneers, and implant placement. These techniques can correct crooked teeth, discolored teeth, broken teeth, and even missing teeth.

While cosmetic dentistry is elective, it can boost self-esteem, making it a good choice for some patients. However, these procedures are not covered by insurance and require a certain level of commitment from patients to maintain their results. In addition, some cosmetic treatments can cause discomfort for a brief period of time.

A general dentist can perform the same procedures as a cosmetic dentist, including X-rays and teeth cleaning, but they focus on meeting basic dental health needs and do not have advanced training in aesthetic techniques. A cosmetic dentist is more specialized, focusing on the aesthetics of a smile and how the teeth look in terms of shape, color, size, and alignment. Cosmetic dentists can also work with other specialists to achieve a desired result, such as orthodontics or prosthodontics. For example, a patient with crowded teeth might choose to get veneers, but the underlying problem of misalignment needs to be addressed by an orthodontist before the procedure can be successful.