What cosmetic dentistry covers
Treatments range from simple, like whitening, to more complex, like implants. The goal is a smile you feel good about, and many treatments also improve comfort and the health of your teeth. For example, an implant can replace a missing tooth, help protect the jawbone and prevent further tooth loss.
The American Dental Association does not list cosmetic dentistry as a separate specialty. Cosmetic dentists are trained as general dentists, and some add training in areas such as prosthodontics or orthodontics.
Who it can help
Patients usually come to us because a tooth is chipped, stained, worn, uneven or missing, because they have gaps, or because their gums show too much. Children can benefit too, mostly from conservative treatments such as bonding, braces or whitening. A dentist may also suggest cosmetic repairs after an accident or injury.
Treatments to talk about
- Teeth whitening: removes stains and discoloration with a peroxide-based product, in the office or with custom trays.
- Veneers: thin coverings, usually porcelain, that fit over the front of teeth.
- Bonding: tooth-colored resin that repairs chips and cracks, closes gaps or reshapes a tooth.
- Crowns: caps that cover the whole tooth to protect it and improve its look.
- Enamel shaping: a quick polish of the surface enamel to smooth chips or uneven edges. It does not need numbing.
- Gum contouring: reshapes the gum line, for example when a smile shows a lot of gum.
- Dental implants: replace missing teeth with a stable base for a natural-looking tooth.
What happens at a consultation
We start by listening to what you do not like about your smile and what you hope to change. We review your health history, take X-rays and examine your mouth. Then we explain your options, the time they take, the follow-up visits and the upkeep, and we put together a plan made for you.
Health comes first. If you have decay or gum disease, we treat it before any cosmetic work, because your teeth affect one another. When you want several treatments, we can combine them in a smile makeover.
Keeping your results
For most treatments, daily care is the same: brush twice a day, floss once a day and keep your regular checkups. Some treatments need extra care. After gum contouring or whitening, you may be asked to eat soft foods and avoid spicy, sticky or acidic ones for a few days while your gums and teeth settle. We give you instructions for your specific treatment.
Questions about which treatment fits you? Call us at (781) 289-3331 to schedule a consultation.
Common questions
Who can have cosmetic dentistry?
Most people who are unhappy with their smile can. Some procedures depend on the health of your teeth and gums, so we check your candidacy first and tell you honestly what is a good fit.
Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Usually not when a procedure is only for appearance. Some plans do cover work that has a health reason, such as a crown on a damaged tooth. Read your policy or ask your insurer, and ask us about payment options.
How long does recovery take?
It depends on the treatment. Whitening and bonding need no recovery time. Implants can take about six months to a year to heal fully.
How long will my new smile last?
That also depends on the treatment and how you care for it. Whitening fades and may need touch-ups, veneers can last many years, and implants can last a very long time with good care.
Do I have to stop smoking first?
Many dentists ask for it. Tobacco stains teeth, harms the gums and can cause problems with whitening, crowns and implants.