Cosmetic Dentistry at a Glance
Cosmetic dentistry is the branch of dental care focused on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. While general dentistry primarily addresses oral health — preventing disease, treating decay, and restoring function — cosmetic dentistry targets aesthetics: the colour, shape, size, alignment, and overall look of your smile.
The two overlap more than most people realise. A porcelain crown is restorative and cosmetic. A clear aligner straightens teeth for function and for aesthetics. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recognises that a healthy smile is also a confident smile — and the two goals are often inseparable.
Cosmetic Dentistry vs. General Dentistry
General Dentistry
- Prevents and diagnoses disease
- Treats cavities, gum disease, infections
- Routine exams and professional cleanings
- X-rays, fillings, extractions
- Often covered by insurance
Cosmetic Dentistry
- Enhances the appearance of your smile
- Whitening, veneers, bonding, alignment
- Corrects colour, shape, size & spacing
- Rebuilds damaged or worn teeth
- Usually elective (some procedures overlap)
Good to know: At MiNa Family Dentistry, your cosmetic and general dental care are handled under one roof by an RCDSO-registered team — no referrals, no separate clinics.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a free cosmetic consultation with Dr. Kadivar — no obligation, no pressure.
Choosing the right shade is one of the most important steps in cosmetic treatment — Dr. Kadivar matches your natural tooth colour precisely.
Who Is a Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Almost anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their smile is a potential candidate. The most common concerns we hear are:
- Teeth that are yellowed, stained, or discoloured
- Chips, cracks, or worn-down enamel
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Teeth that are crooked, crowded, or misaligned
- Teeth that are too small, too large, or uneven
- A gummy smile or uneven gumline
- Missing teeth affecting confidence or function
Good candidates have healthy teeth and gums, or are willing to address any underlying issues first. If you have untreated decay or active gum disease, we'll treat those before beginning cosmetic work — building your new smile on a healthy foundation.
What Happens at a Cosmetic Consultation?
Your first step is a dedicated cosmetic consultation with Dr. Kadivar. There is no obligation and no pressure to proceed. Here is what to expect:
- 01
Smile Assessment
Dr. Kadivar reviews your current smile — photographs, X-rays if needed, and a discussion of what you like and dislike about your teeth.
- 02
Goal Setting
Together, you'll define the outcome you want — whiter, straighter, fuller, or all of the above. No detail is too small.
- 03
Treatment Options
You'll receive a clear explanation of all relevant treatments, including timelines, what each involves, and the realistic results each can achieve.
- 04
Cost & Sequencing
A transparent cost estimate is provided before you commit to anything. If multiple treatments are planned, Dr. Kadivar recommends the right sequence for the best outcome.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?
Most purely cosmetic procedures — teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, LUMINEERS — are not covered by standard dental insurance plans, as they are considered elective. However, procedures with a restorative component often are:
- Crowns to restore a broken or heavily decayed tooth — often partially covered
- Bonding to repair a fractured tooth — may be covered
- Invisalign for significant bite or spacing issues — coverage varies by plan
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers certain restorative and preventive treatments for eligible Canadians — check your eligibility and ask our team whether your planned treatment qualifies.
How to Choose a Cosmetic Dentist in Thornhill
Cosmetic dentistry is as much an art as a science. When choosing a dentist, look for:
- RCDSO registration — all practising dentists in Ontario must be registered
- A portfolio of before-and-after cases relevant to your treatment
- Clear, honest communication about realistic outcomes and timelines
- A comprehensive exam before any cosmetic work begins
- Transparency around costs — no surprises
