When we smile, it is our set of pearly whites that people notice first. White and healthy set of teeth surely looks attractive and pleasing. However, as years pass, teeth can become discolored, weak, or damaged. One way to restore the beauty and health of one’s teeth is through cosmetic dentistry.Cosmetic dentistry is the aesthetic field of study and practice that involves the use of restoration techniques. This is quite different from ordinary dentistry that basically focuses on dental health.There are various methods of restoring that beautiful smile. Teeth discoloration is one of the most common issues of today, especially among adults. Teeth whitening is the recommended solution for discolored teeth. However, if you wish to have long-lasting effects, it is best to go to a cosmetic dental clinic and have your teeth treated. Over-the-counter teeth whitening gels are not as effective and they are not recommended especially for children.Another in-clinic treatment that you can go for is tooth reshaping or contouring. This procedure is used to correct chipped, crooked, cracked or overlapping teeth. The process is fairly quick and can be done in one session. Teeth reshaping is an ideal procedure for those who want to alter the shape, length, or position of their teeth.Bonding is a procedure that fixes gaps between teeth, alter the shape of teeth, and cover discoloration. The dentist uses resins in treating small chips and blemishes on the teeth’s surface. Teeth bonding is not a complex procedure; therefore, it is fast and safe. This treatment may cost around $150 to $300.Veneers are pieces of thin porcelain that dentists bond on the front surface of the teeth. They are typically used to improve teeth’s appearance by altering their shape and color; masking blemishes or stains; and replacing any fractured parts. Veneers are non-porous, very hard, resistant, and can outlast tooth-colored resins. The price per piece of veneer may vary from $300 to $1500.Two cosmetic dentistry procedures that require surgery are dental implants and gum surgery. Dental implants are artificial teeth that are embedded on the jawbone, replacing lost teeth. Titanium screws or biocompatible material is often used to hold the artificial teeth in place. The process requires a few visits to the dentist – consultation and assessment, implanting the screw, and the attachment of artificial tooth after the bone and gums have healed.Cosmetic gum surgery is a process of lengthening the teeth. People with ‘gummy’ smiles or those who appear to have tiny teeth are the usual candidates for this type of procedure.You may have heard many times that taking care of your teeth is the key to a beautiful and healthy smile. It holds true for everyone who wishes to keep their teeth forever, literally. But you don’t have to worry much these days, thanks to the availability of cosmetic dentistry.