Cosmetic dentistry is increasing in popularity as people are becoming aware of its possibilities and availability. Cosmetic dentistry benefits these people by increasing their confidence level and helping them to attain a smile that dazzles others, as important first impressions are made by smiles. It is a common belief that a person's smile says a lot about him or her, so people are going to great lengths to get that perfect smile, as it could change their lives. This change in attitude has totally changed the way people look at dentistry or orthodontists, as it is no longer about fillings, extractions and capping, but about changing the way you look and feel about yourself.

You can choose from a plethora of options to attain that picture perfect smile that you have always wanted. However merely choosing an option is not enough and you will need to refer to a dentist as to its viability for your individual requirements on the basis of cost and effectiveness. However here are a few common options, which you can talk about with your dentist.

Often teeth have a tendency to get stained from tobacco smoking, excess coffee or tea drinking or even excess red wine consumption or even having food with too much turmeric in it. A lot of people are also born with teeth of a darker color than others. Teeth whitening methods are useful in changing the color of your teeth to a lighter shade and the latest techniques, instead of acting in an abrasive manner, use laser beams, which are shone on your teeth covered with whitening chemicals. This process eliminates the abrasive method of whitening your teeth which also damages the tooth enamel. The laser based technique can whiten your teeth by up to six shades.

Often teeth with cavities are not extracted, but filled up with dental cement, when the holes are not too big or too deep and the tooth can be saved. Earlier fillings were done using materials which did not match the tooth color, but filling of late have advanced in technology, using porcelain based white composite fillings. Many people often opt to get their older fillings replaced by fillings which are tooth colored.

Crowns are porcelain or metallic toot caps used to cover teeth which have been damaged extensively. Crowns have multiple uses and you need to discuss it with your dentist if you need one.

Bridges are a popular option where if you just have one or two teeth missing, you can merely crown the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth and then attach a false tooth in between.

There are other similar procedures for making your teeth look better, like braces, bite correction, veneers, and even implanting jewelry on your teeth. However before opting for any such procedure you should always discuss it with your dentist, and ensure that it is the correct choice for you and for the health of your teeth. After all you just have one set, and teeth can't be grown again during your adult life.