Cosmetic dentistry aims to create a more balanced, symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing smile. Common cosmetic dentistry services include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers and contouring of teeth and gums.
Teeth whitening
Over time, dark foods and drinks (such as coffee, tea and berries) can stain your teeth. Professional teeth whitening can dramatically and safely brighten the shade of your teeth and brighten your smile.
Many dentists offer both in-office and at-home teeth whitening. In-office whitening takes approximately one hour. At-home whitening usually takes a few weeks.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding involves applying tooth-coloured composite resin. Your dentist uses this material to cover and hide cracks, crack lines (fissures), discolouration and other cosmetic imperfections. Dental bonding can change the shape of a tooth to make it longer, wider or more uniform.
Dental bonding usually requires replacement every five to seven years. It also does not require the removal of natural tooth enamel, which means it is completely reversible.
Ceramic facets
Made from medical-grade ceramic, porcelain veneers are thin, durable shells that adhere to the front surfaces of your teeth. Like dental bonding, veneers can hide a wide range of cosmetic flaws, including chips, cracks and discoloration.
There are several types of facets, including traditional and minimally trained. All veneers require at least some removal of natural enamel, which means they may be reversible, depending on the type you choose. In most cases, porcelain veneers need to be replaced every 10 years or so.
Contouring teeth
This procedure removes small amounts of enamel to change the shape of your teeth. Because you only have a limited amount of natural enamel, there is a limit to how much tooth structure your dentist can remove. Your dentist can complete the contouring of your teeth during a single office visit.
Gum contouring
Some people are born with excess gum tissue. When this happens, it can make your smile look "gummy" or unbalanced. During gum contouring, your dentist removes excess gum tissue and reshapes the gum line for a more symmetrical and balanced appearance.