What is it exactly and how can it benefit me?

Cosmetic Dentistry is a field of dentistry devoted to the form or appearance of your teeth when you smile. Cosmetic Dentistry, as opposed to aesthetic dentistry, is based on the principles of a perfect or “Hollywood” smile. These principles are derived from nature and the “golden ratio” as described by esthetic master Leonardo Da Vinci as well as many other more contemporary aesthetics gurus. Aesthetic Dentistry, on the other hand, is more about restoring teeth to the way they were naturally which may or may not be what you are going for. Aesthetic dentistry tends to be far less dramatic and thus less expensive and time consuming.

Teeth that are very white and have perfect proportions give the illusion of youth and vitality as opposed to teeth that are shortened by wear over time and discolored with age. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is thus to give you a perfect youthful smile that changes your life by increasing confidence and sex appeal. Nearly everyone can benefit from the fruits of cosmetic dentistry because very few people are born with perfect looking teeth and even less are able to maintain those teeth in older age.

Cosmetic Dentistry came about at a time when dental caries or decay was on the decline. Due to more routine oral hygiene in the dental offices, improved materials, and better pathways for the dissemination of oral health tips, cavities became less prevalent in society. Dentists were no longer overwhelmed by countless masses of decayed teeth and with our heads “above the trees” we could see that there were other areas of people’s lives we could improve. At this same time society was becoming more obsessed with image and appearance due to the constant bombardment of television shows, ads, and movie productions. This led to a revolution in the field of dentistry that is ever the more prominent today and continues to benefit all who undergo treatment.