Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth, gums or smile. The American Dental Association defines cosmetic dentistry as services provided solely to improve appearance when form and function are satisfactory and no pathologic condition exists. In practice, some treatments can have both aesthetic and restorative purposes, so the distinction is not always absolute. [1]
Looking for a treatment? This page is the concise directory of cosmetic dentistry procedures and their dedicated guides. For a deeper explanation of smile aesthetics, conservative treatment planning, natural-looking results and the balance between appearance and function, read The Art & Science of a Natural-Looking Smile.
Dr. Kostrzewski has more than two decades of experience in dentistry and reviews the dental information published by ACE Dental Resource.
Illustrations from the Original Cosmetic Dentistry Guide
These historical illustrations show treatments covered by our cosmetic, restorative and orthodontic resources. Use the linked treatment directory below for current information.
What Can Cosmetic Dentistry Address?
Cosmetic treatment may be considered when a person wants to change the color, shape, size, position or overall appearance of teeth or the smile. The appropriate approach depends on the condition of the teeth and gums, the patient’s goals, and whether there are functional or oral-health issues that need attention first.
| Goal | Examples | ACE guide |
|---|---|---|
| Change tooth color | Professional or take-home whitening | Teeth Whitening |
| Repair or reshape a tooth | Composite dental bonding | Dental Bonding |
| Change the appearance of several teeth | Veneers or other planned restorations | Dental Veneers |
| Improve a broader smile concern | A coordinated smile makeover | Smile Makeover |
| Address selected alignment concerns | Orthodontic treatment or clear aligners | Invisalign |
Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Teeth Whitening
Whitening is one of the less-invasive ways to change the appearance of natural teeth. The ADA notes that professional whitening can be provided in the dental office or through dentist-supplied at-home approaches, and that only natural teeth change color; tooth-colored restorations do not whiten. [2]
For procedure details, limitations and sensitivity considerations, see Teeth Whitening and Zoom Teeth Whitening.
Dental Bonding
Bonding uses tooth-colored material to alter or repair selected areas of a tooth. It can be useful for certain cosmetic changes, but the appropriate indication and expected durability depend on the individual tooth and treatment plan.
See the dedicated Dental Bonding guide rather than using this hub as a substitute for procedure-specific information.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made restorations used for selected aesthetic changes. Materials and clinical indications vary, and treatment planning should consider tooth structure, function and the long-term maintenance of the restoration. NIDCR notes that indirect restorations such as veneers can be custom made using laboratory techniques including digital design and milling. [3]
See Dental Veneers for the detailed discussion.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a branded type of veneer. Their suitability depends on the individual case rather than on the brand name alone.
See Lumineers for indications, limitations and alternatives.
Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover is not one standardized procedure. It can involve a combination of treatments selected around a patient’s goals and oral condition.
See Smile Makeover for treatment planning considerations.
Cosmetic Dentistry and Restorative Dentistry Can Overlap
A treatment can improve appearance while also restoring function or replacing missing tooth structure. Dental implants, crowns and dentures are examples of treatments that may have an important aesthetic component but are primarily discussed within restorative dentistry.
For that reason, ACE Dental Resource treats cosmetic and restorative dentistry as related but distinct topic areas. See Restorative Dentistry for the restorative treatment hub.
How Cosmetic Treatment Is Planned
Cosmetic treatment should be selected around the underlying dental problem, oral health, function and the patient’s goals. For the full discussion of aesthetic assessment, conservative treatment selection, tooth preservation and expectations, see The Art & Science of a Natural-Looking Smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry Costs
There is no single price for cosmetic dentistry. Fees vary with the procedure, number of teeth, materials, complexity, laboratory work, location and other factors.
For the broad cost overview, see Cosmetic Dentistry Costs. For a deeper explanation of the variables that affect fees, see Cosmetic Dentistry Cost Factors.
Questions to Ask Before Cosmetic Treatment
- What problem is the proposed treatment intended to address?
- What alternatives are available?
- How much natural tooth structure will be changed?
- What maintenance or future replacement may be required?
- What is included in the treatment estimate?
- How will existing restorations affect the result?
Explore Cosmetic Dentistry Resources
- Teeth Whitening
- Zoom Teeth Whitening
- Dental Bonding
- Dental Veneers
- Lumineers
- Smile Makeover
- Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs