Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Find answers to the most common cosmetic dentistry questions.
Thinking about improving your smile? Find answers to the most common cosmetic dentistry questions below.
General Cosmetic Questions
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. While general dentistry addresses health issues, cosmetic dentistry enhances aesthetics—though many procedures provide both benefits.
For many patients, absolutely. A smile you're proud of can boost confidence, improve first impressions, and enhance quality of life. The value depends on how much your smile affects your daily life and self-esteem.
Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by dental insurance, as they're considered elective. However, some procedures (like crowns) may have partial coverage if there's also a functional need. We'll verify your specific benefits.
During a cosmetic consultation, we discuss your goals and concerns, evaluate your current smile, present options with pros and cons, and create a personalized plan. There's often more than one way to achieve your goals.
Yes! We can show you before/after photos of similar cases, digital smile previews, and temporary mockups for major changes. This helps you visualize results before committing.
Teeth Whitening Questions
Professional whitening is safe for enamel when used as directed. The active ingredients (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) work on stains without harming tooth structure. Learn more about Teeth Whitening →
Results vary by individual. We can typically lighten teeth 3-8 shades. Some stains (like tetracycline staining) may require alternative treatments. We'll give realistic expectations during consultation.
Professional whitening typically lasts 1-3 years. Longevity depends on diet, tobacco use, and maintenance. Touch-up treatments extend results. Read: How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last? →
No. Whitening only affects natural tooth enamel. If you have visible restorations, we can discuss options for a uniform appearance.
Some patients experience temporary sensitivity during or after whitening. It's usually mild and resolves within a few days. We have strategies to minimize sensitivity.
Veneer Questions
Porcelain veneers: 10-15+ years
Composite veneers: 5-7 years
Longevity depends on care, habits (grinding, nail biting), and maintenance. Learn more about Porcelain Veneers →
Quality porcelain veneers look remarkably natural. They're custom-made to match your facial features, skin tone, and desired shade. Most people won't know you have veneers.
Veneers require removing some enamel for placement—this is permanent. However, the amount is minimal, and veneers actually protect the underlying tooth. It's important to understand this commitment.
Veneers can create the appearance of straighter teeth for mild misalignment. For significant crookedness, orthodontics may be better. Sometimes we combine treatments for optimal results.
Veneers can't fix severely misaligned bites, major crowding, underlying tooth decay (must be treated first), gum disease, or teeth grinding without a night guard.
Bonding Questions
Dental bonding typically lasts 5-10 years. It's less durable than porcelain but more affordable and requires no tooth preparation. Learn more about Cosmetic Bonding →
Yes! Bonding is excellent for closing small to moderate gaps. For larger gaps or multiple issues, veneers or orthodontics may be better options.
Bonding material can stain over time, especially with coffee, tea, or tobacco. It doesn't respond to whitening, so maintaining color requires careful habits or eventual replacement.
Smile Makeover Questions
A smile makeover combines multiple cosmetic procedures to comprehensively transform your smile. It might include whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, gum contouring, or orthodontics. Learn more about Smile Makeovers →
Timeline varies by treatments involved:
• Simple (whitening + bonding): 2-3 visits
• Moderate (veneers): 2-3 weeks
• Complex (orthodontics + restorations): Months to years
We'll provide a timeline during your consultation.
Costs range widely based on treatments needed—from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands for comprehensive transformations. We provide detailed estimates after evaluation.
Other Cosmetic Procedure Questions
Absolutely. We can reshape teeth with bonding (adding material), contouring (removing material), veneers (covering surfaces), or crowns (full coverage).
Options include dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and crowns. These create immediate results without moving teeth. Invisalign remains an option for those who prefer actually repositioning teeth. Learn more about Gaps Between Teeth →
Yes. We can replace old amalgam (silver) fillings with tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Schedule a cosmetic consultation to explore your options.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝