Begin with the health of the tooth
A cosmetic concern can sometimes be connected to decay, an old restoration, injury, or a bite issue. A dental examination helps identify the cause and determine which options can improve appearance without overlooking health or function.
Options serve different needs
- Whitening can change the color of natural tooth structure, but it does not lighten crowns, veneers, or fillings and does not work for every type of discoloration.
- Bonding uses tooth-colored material to reshape or repair selected areas of a tooth.
- A veneer covers the front surface of a tooth and may address chips, stains, shape, or spacing. Because enamel is removed, treatment is not reversible.
- A crown covers the tooth and may strengthen one that is weak, broken, or heavily restored while also improving its appearance.
- Orthodontic treatment may be considered when tooth position or the bite is the underlying concern.
Choose with the full picture in mind
Durability, enamel preservation, maintenance, timing, and cost can differ substantially among treatments. Your dentist can explain which choices fit the condition of the tooth and help you weigh the tradeoffs before moving forward.
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