Dentists that focus on improving the beauty and function of your smile are cosmetic dentists. In some cases, cosmetic dentistry is not medically necessary, but it can provide real benefits beyond appearance alone.
Cosmetic dentists build on standard dental training with additional focus on the aesthetics of your overall smile. You will find dentists offering this expertise at our practice, DG Dental in Fort Lauderdale.
What Can a Cosmetic Dentist Do?
With the help of a cosmetic dentist, you can make major repairs or subtle refinements to improve your smile. There are a variety of techniques a cosmetic dentist can use to address the following:
After an evaluation of your oral health and a conversation about your goals, we will work with you on a treatment plan that may involve:
- Closing spaces between teeth
- Reshaping teeth for better proportion
- Restoring a worn or chipped tooth
- Altering the length of a tooth
At DG Dental, we can help you achieve a smile that fits your face and your goals, whether that means one targeted fix or a full smile makeover.
Difference Between Cosmetic and General Dentistry
While you may think these two overlap completely, they serve different purposes. The table below outlines what typically falls under each.
The improvements from cosmetic treatments are not necessarily only about appearance. Some of the procedures listed above can also improve your oral health, such as your bite. Many general dental practices do not offer these cosmetic services, which is one reason it is worth asking questions before you commit to a provider.
Is “Cosmetic Dentist” a Recognized Specialty?
Here is something many patients do not realize: the American Dental Association does not formally recognize “cosmetic dentistry” as one of its designated specialties. Any licensed general dentist can legally call themselves a cosmetic dentist, regardless of how much additional training they have completed. That does not mean the title is meaningless, but it does mean the responsibility for vetting a provider’s real experience falls more on the patient than it would when choosing a recognized specialist like an orthodontist or periodontist.
Here at DG Dental, our approach to cosmetic dentistry is grounded in additional hands-on training and continuing education, not just the title. Before committing to a cosmetic procedure with any provider, here is what to ask:
Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Confidence
The procedures you complete can improve your satisfaction and quality of life by giving you a smile you feel good sharing, whether that is at a first date, a job interview, or simply in everyday conversation. Correcting crooked, stained, chipped, or missing teeth removes a source of self-consciousness that many people carry for years. Patients frequently tell us how much more comfortable they feel smiling after treatment, and reviews from our community reflect that same theme of renewed confidence.
Selecting the Right Cosmetic Dentist
Choosing the right cosmetic dentist significantly increases the likelihood that you will love your final results. It can feel overwhelming, but it is worth finding a provider who can offer whole-smile solutions with proper planning, since that consistency helps you maintain your oral health over the long term. Ask friends, family, and coworkers about their experiences, search for reviews online, and consider scheduling consultations with more than one provider before deciding.
Your cosmetic dentist should take the time to understand your goals and help you feel comfortable and respected throughout the process. When a cosmetic dentistry procedure is planned and executed well, the difference it makes in how you feel about your smile can be significant.
Best Cosmetic Dentistry Available at DG Dental
Along with general dentistry procedures, we offer a variety of cosmetic procedures that can improve your smile, from veneers to full smile makeovers. Schedule your complimentary consultation at DG Dental and see how we can help you get the smile you have been wanting. If you have been putting off treatment out of self-consciousness, our post on overcoming the fear of smiling may be a helpful place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
Is any dentist allowed to call themselves a cosmetic dentist?
Yes. The American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a formal specialty, so any licensed general dentist can use the title regardless of their training level in aesthetic procedures. This makes it especially important to ask about a provider’s specific experience, continuing education, and portfolio before scheduling treatment.
How much does cosmetic dentistry typically cost?
Cost varies widely depending on the procedure, the number of teeth involved, and the materials used. A single tooth bonding is far less expensive than a full smile makeover with multiple veneers. We provide a personalized quote after your consultation and can discuss financing options that fit your budget.
Will dental insurance cover cosmetic procedures?
Purely cosmetic procedures, such as veneers chosen for appearance alone, are typically not covered by dental insurance. However, some treatments that also restore function, like a crown replacing a fractured tooth, may receive partial coverage. Our team can help you understand what your specific plan allows.
How long do cosmetic dentistry results last?
Longevity depends on the procedure. Porcelain veneers can last many years with good care, while teeth whitening may need periodic touch-ups. During your consultation, we discuss the expected lifespan of your specific treatment plan and how routine maintenance factors into your results.
Can cosmetic dentistry improve more than just appearance?
In many cases, yes. Procedures like orthodontics, dental implants, and crowns can improve your bite and function while also enhancing appearance. During your evaluation, we look at your full oral health picture so any cosmetic plan also supports your long-term dental function.
About the Author
Founder, DG Dental
Dr. Dory Green trained at Temple University School of Dentistry and brings a background in microbiology and technical theater to her cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice in Fort Lauderdale, where she focuses on smile design grounded in both artistry and clinical training.
