Cosmetic Dentistry
Whitening, bonding and veneers, to change how a healthy tooth looks.
Changing how a healthy tooth looks
Cosmetic treatment changes the appearance of teeth that are healthy but discoloured, chipped or uneven. Whitening lifts staining. Bonding and veneers change the shape and the shade of a tooth.
We check the health of the tooth and the gum first. Cosmetic work sits over a healthy mouth, not instead of treating one.
What this covers
- Whitening in the clinic, and custom take home whitening trays
- Composite bonding for chips, small gaps and worn edges
- Veneers in composite or porcelain
- Shade matching, so new work sits with the teeth around it
- Replacing old front fillings that have darkened at the edges
- Straight advice on what will and will not change with whitening
What actually happens at the visit
This is the part most people want to know before they book, so here it is in order.
An exam first
We start with an exam, because whitening and bonding both need healthy teeth and gums underneath.
What is realistic for your teeth
We talk through what is realistic for your teeth, including where the result will be limited.
Whitening
Whitening in the clinic is usually one appointment. Take home trays are made from impressions and used over a couple of weeks.
Bonding
Bonding is usually done in a single visit and often needs no freezing.
Checking the shade together
We look at the shade together, in daylight, before anything is finished.
Before treatment starts
We go through the options with you and what each one costs, and you decide what to go ahead with. Nothing is done to a tooth before you have said yes, and you can have the plan in writing.
Good to know
- Whitening does not change the colour of crowns, veneers, bridges or fillings. If you have work at the front of your mouth, it may need replacing afterwards to match.
- Some sensitivity during and after whitening is common, and it usually settles within a day or two.
- Results fade. Coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco all speed that up, and touch ups are part of keeping the shade.
- If you are having orthodontic treatment, whitening is timed around it so the shade comes out even.
Who this is for
Adults and seniors who want to change how a tooth looks. Whitening for teenagers is assessed case by case, and we will say plainly if we think it should wait.
If something does not feel right after an appointment, phone the clinic on (416) 744-6323. It is easier to sort out early than late, and we would rather hear from you.
Common questions
Is whitening safe?
Whitening in a dental clinic is done after an exam and with your gums protected. We check first that the discolouration is the kind that whitening actually lifts.
Will whitening work on my crown?
No. Whitening works on natural enamel. Crowns, veneers and fillings keep the shade they already have, so front restorations sometimes need replacing to match.
How long do veneers last?
That depends on the material, your bite, and whether you grind your teeth. We look at them at every exam and tell you when one needs attention.
Is cosmetic treatment covered by insurance?
Purely cosmetic treatment usually is not. Work that restores function sometimes is. Bring your details and the front desk will check what your plan says.
Book this visit
Book a consultation and we will tell you straight what whitening, bonding or veneers can and cannot do for your teeth.
Open seven days a week, evenings until 9:00 pm on weekdays.
Not sure what your plan covers?
Bring your insurance card, or your program card, to your appointment. The front desk checks your coverage before treatment starts and tells you plainly if something is not covered.
Insurance and programs