Having a smile that you're proud of is sure to be something you'll enjoy for a lifetime. However, you may not have been born with the teeth you want. It's possible to alter your teeth by having various dental procedures done that can enhance your appearance. By knowing what your cosmetic dental options are, this can help you choose the one that may suit you best.

Procedure #1: Veneers

Living with teeth that are crooked may be preventing you from smiling as much as you want. You may be embarrassed to show your teeth, and this may reduce your overall quality of life.

Getting veneers could potentially be your best option in this situation. Veneers are a thin porcelain laminate that fits over your existing teeth to provide you with a perfect smile.

This process can typically be completed in only two visits to the dental office. The average price of veneers is $500-$1,100 per tooth.

Procedure #2: Dental Crowns

Getting a crown may be due to cosmetic reasons or decay. For instance, if you have a front tooth that isn't as attractive as you like, you may be able to have crown created to improve your smile.

This process usually takes two visits to the dental office, and the steps are listed below:

1. Exam – The dentist will look at the tooth and take x-rays of it.
2. Preparing –You may need to have some decay removed or the tooth reshaped for the best fit. There will also be an impression made that will be sent to a dental lab to create the crown.
3. Placing – Once the crown is ready, you'll return to the dentist and have it cemented into place.

The average price of a dental crown per tooth can vary depending on the materials used.

Dental Bonding

If you have a gap in your teeth, especially between your front teeth, you may want to have this filled in to look better. This process is referred to as dental bonding and can usually is completed in only one dental visit.

Dental bonding will allow your dentist to use a composite material that matches your existing teeth, and this will fill in the gap. You can expect to pay around $300-$600 per tooth for this procedure.

Looking your best and having a smile you're proud of is important. Be sure to talk to a cosmetic dentist, such as TLC Dental Center, about which procedure is best for you.