Cosmetic dentistry is dentistry aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. Most think of tooth whitening or veneers when cosmetic dentistry comes to mind, but a cosmetic dentist can provide much more.

A skilled, experienced cosmetic dentist can help to improve your appearance, your smile, even your self-esteem and confidence. Today, cosmetic dentistry has continued to evolve to where cosmetic dentists can address functional and aesthetic patient concerns.

Members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry stand for the practice of responsible esthetics. That means AACD is the primary dental resource for patients as they strive to maintain their health, function, and appearance for their lifetime. We believe that aesthetic dentistry must complement the overall general and oral health of the patient, and do no harm. So we strongly encourage treatment decisions based on the foundation of evidence-based protocols combined with sound clinical judgment. AACD also strongly encourages that cosmetic dentistry integrate interdisciplinary medical and dental treatment to enhance outcomes and minimize the loss of healthy human tissue. That means AACD member dentists champion and provide minimally invasive treatment protocols, when and where appropriate, and ensure they are consistent with the long-term health and needs of the patient. Finally, we encourage the use of innovation in technology and materials to deliver dentistry that is predictable and long lasting.

Patients who have undergone treatment are often transformed from the inside out because knowledge in the dental profession for American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) members is constantly growing. That commitment to education has led AACD members to believe that responsible esthetics means dealing with beauty that’s more than skin deep. It means striving for a smile that connects. The changes that can be made to your smile through a wide variety of procedures, techniques, and the newest materials are remarkable.

Cosmetic dentistry has evolved from simply replacing and restoring damaged teeth to covering a wide scope of aesthetic procedures. Today’s cosmetic dentistry includes tooth whitening, tooth bonding, tooth-colored restorations and fillings, porcelain veneers, orthodontics, dental implants, and more. You may be surprised by how dentistry has evolved and what can be done by an experienced cosmetic dentist.

Selecting a cosmetic dentist is crucial. The first step is to look at your smile and determine what you want to change. Your cosmetic dentist may have some other concerns when you visit, but it’s best to arrive having your own wish list.

Next, ask your family and friends for referrals. Evaluate the skill level of those dentists you are considering, then check the credentials and experience level. At your consultation appointment, be sure to ask again about their experience level and if you can see some photographs of their work.

Your best resource for finding a cosmetic dentist is the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Click here for more information on why you should select an AACD Dentist.

Have an honest discussion with your dentist about your cosmetic goals to be sure they’re realistic. Then discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the recommended procedures. Finally, ask about the cost and treatment time frame.