4 Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures General Dentists Perform Regularly
You might think only specialists handle cosmetic dentistry. Yet your general dentist often does this work every day. Common cosmetic treatments can repair damage, close gaps, and brighten your smile. These changes can ease tension in social moments. They can also make it easier to keep your teeth clean. A dentist in St. Louis, MO can often combine these services with your routine care. That means fewer visits and less stress. You do not need to chase a perfect smile. You only need a mouth that feels strong and looks natural. This blog explains four cosmetic procedures general dentists perform often. You will see what each one does, how it works, and when it might help you. You will also learn what to expect during and after treatment. With clear facts, you can decide what fits your needs and your budget.
1. Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic services in general offices. It targets stains from coffee, tea, tobacco, and aging. You see color change faster than with store products.
Most dentists offer two main options.
- In office whitening
- Take home custom trays
In office whitening uses a stronger gel under close watch. Your gums get a barrier. Your teeth get gel for short periods. The visit often lasts about one hour. Many people see change in one visit.
Take home trays use a lower strength gel. The office makes thin trays that fit your teeth. You place gel in the trays and wear them as directed. Change builds over one to two weeks.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that whitening works best on natural teeth and not on fillings or crowns.
You might feel brief zings of cold after treatment. Your dentist can adjust strength and timing to protect your comfort.
2. Dental bonding
Dental bonding uses tooth colored resin to fix chips, cracks, stains, or small gaps. The dentist shapes the resin by hand. The work often finishes in one visit. You usually do not need numbing unless the tooth is sensitive.
Here is how bonding usually works.
- The tooth surface gets cleaned and roughened.
- A liquid helps the resin stick.
- Tooth colored resin goes on in thin layers.
- A curing light hardens the resin.
- The dentist trims and polishes the shape.
You might choose bonding if you want change right away at a lower cost. It can fix
- Small chips in front teeth
- Short or worn edges
- Spots that whitening does not lift
- Small gaps between teeth
Bonding can stain over time, especially with coffee and tobacco. It also can chip if you bite hard objects. Yet it is easy to repair. Many parents choose bonding for teens who are still growing. You can wait on more permanent work like veneers until the mouth is stable.
3. Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that cover the front of teeth. They change color, shape, and length. General dentists place them often on front teeth that show when you smile.
You might think of veneers when you have
- Deep stains that do not respond to whitening
- Uneven or misshapen teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- Many old fillings on front teeth
The process usually takes two or three visits.
- Planning. You talk about your goal. X-rays and photos help guide shape and color.
- Tooth prep. The dentist removes a thin layer of enamel from the front of each tooth. Then impressions go to a lab. You might wear temporary covers.
- Placement. At the next visit, the dentist checks fit and color. Teeth get cleaned. Veneers get bonded with a strong cement.
Porcelain resists stains better than bonding. Veneers can last many years with care. You still need to brush, floss, and see your dentist. You also need to avoid habits like nail biting or chewing ice.
4. Dental crowns with cosmetic goals
Dental crowns cover the whole tooth above the gum. Many people think of crowns only for broken teeth. Yet general dentists also use them to improve appearance while restoring strength.
Crowns help when teeth are
- Cracked or weakened
- Badly worn down
- Heavily filled and discolored
- Treated with root canal
Most cosmetic crowns use porcelain or ceramic. Your dentist picks a shade that matches nearby teeth. Crowns usually need two visits. The first visit shapes the tooth and takes impressions. A temporary crown protects the tooth. The second visit places the final crown.
The American Dental Association MouthHealthy site lists crowns as a common way to protect and improve damaged teeth.
Comparison of common cosmetic options
| Procedure | Main purpose | Usual visits | Average longevity | Best for
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teeth whitening | Lighten tooth color | 1 to 2 | 1 to 3 years with touch ups | Stained but healthy teeth |
| Dental bonding | Fix chips and small gaps | 1 | 3 to 7 years | Small cosmetic fixes |
| Porcelain veneers | Change shape and color | 2 to 3 | 10 to 15 years | Front teeth with many flaws |
| Dental crowns | Strength and appearance | 2 | 10 to 15 years | Weak or broken teeth |
How to choose the right procedure
You and your dentist should decide together. A simple talk and exam can sort options.
Ask about three things.
- Health. Is the tooth strong enough for whitening or bonding. Or does it need a crown.
- Longevity. How long do you want the change to last. Are you okay with touch ups.
- Budget. What fits your costs now. What can wait.
Bring your questions. Ask to see photos of past work. Ask what care looks like years later. You deserve clear facts, plain language, and a plan that fits your life.