Not only can cosmetic dentistry improve your self confidence and the way that you look, but cosmetic dentistry can have some really functional and practical uses as well.  For example, in cosmetic dentistry the teeth can be reshaped to not only look more symmetrical, but actually allow the jaw and teeth to more evenly distribute pressure.  When you think about it cosmetic dentistry is not entirely about appearance.  It can actually improve your quality of life.

Below are a few of the most common procedures done in cosmetic dentistry.  Some will obviously be more involved and have more dramatic results than others.  Your dentist can provide you with helpful council in your decision making process.

Bleaching - Bleaching or teeth whitening is very popular.  In fact, the craze to have white teeth has lead to the creation of many over-the-counter teeth whitening kits that can be used from home.  In addition to kits for whitening your teeth, there are entire lines of toothpastes that can help get your smile whiter.  The biggest disadvantage to the over-the-counter kits is that result can take weeks to appear.  For those who want more instant results, your dentist can whiten your teeth with a laser and/or stronger bleaching gel. 

Braces and orthodontia - Straight teeth are just as important if not more important to some than white teeth.  Orthodontists receive several years of training following dental school to be able to straighten people's teeth.  An orthodontist takes special care not only to ensure that teeth are properly aligned but also that a person's bite is straight so that there is no improper overlap when one smiles.

Bonding - Bonding has many different purposes in the world of cosmetic dentistry.  Bonding materials can be used to seal cracks, fill gauges and even reshape teeth.  When the reshaping of  tooth is minor or there are small gaps to be filled between teeth, a dentist can use a bonding material to put a thin layer over the tooth, therefore changing its shape.

Implants - dental implants serve as a permanent solution for dentures and other removable false tooth fixtures.  Dental implants look very much like your real teeth and function like real teeth.  A dental implant eliminates worries of ill-fitting dentures and the inconvenience of messy denture adhesives.  A dental implant can give you the peace of mind that your teeth will be where you put them when you need to use them.

Veneers - Veneers are growing rapidly in popularity.  Porcelain veneers are a type of jacket that goes over existing teeth to reshape and restructure someone's smile.  Veneers can actually be used in place of traditional braces to straighten teeth!  Veneers are so popular because they are a rapid solution.  A cosmetic dentist can often fit and prepare your mouth for veneers in about two appointments (much shorter that the many months and even years that traditional orthodontia takes).  The ever growing popularity of veneers make it possible to undergo a smile makeover in less time than ever before.