What Dental Procedures Are Considered Cosmetic? 

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, things can get a bit confusing. Some treatments are easy to identify as cosmetic as they have a direct impact on the appearance of the teeth. Such is the case of teeth whitening or veneers. But, other procedures come with a functional benefit too and people may not be aware that they fall in the category of cosmetic dentistry. 

So, what procedures are considered cosmetic? Here's a list. 

Teeth Whitening

Cosmetic dentistry is almost synonymous with teeth whitening. And, for very good reasons. If you are looking for a cosmetic treatment that is sure to give your smile a quick makeover, then teeth whitening is the right option. 

The dentist will use a bleaching agent to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. However, if you don't have time for an in-office treatment, you can also opt for home teeth whitening with the help of custom-made trays. There's also the option of over-the-counter treatment, but this is usually less effective and the effects don't last very long. 

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are placed over the surface of the teeth. They can be used to cover up imperfections such as chips, cracks, and discoloration. They can also be used to change the shape and size of your teeth, making them a versatile solution. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants will not only change the way your smile looks but also restore the functionality of your mouth. Because the implant is inserted into the jawbone, implants look and function just like natural teeth.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses tooth-colored resin to repair minor dental flaws such as chips, cracks, and gaps. The dentist will apply the resin and then shape it to match the natural shape of your tooth. 

Invisalign

Invisalign is not just a cosmetic treatment, but a functional one too. It's an orthodontic treatment that uses transparent aligners to gradually straighten the teeth. This makes Invisalign almost unnoticeable. 

Invisalign is ideal for people who are dealing with misaligned or crowded teeth, but who don't want to wear metal braces to straighten their smile. 

Gum Contouring

Sometimes, it's not the appearance of the teeth that bother people, but of their gums. If you have a "gummy smile," where too much gum tissue is visible when smiling, then you can use this cosmetic treatment to create a more even gum line. 

Want to Enhance Your Smile? Give Us a Call! 

If you want to enhance the appearance of your teeth and achieve a more confident smile, the team at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates is here to help you. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments, such as teeth whitening, dental bonding and contouring, and veneers. 

Head over to our contact page to get in touch with us or call us directly at (215) 334-2000.