If you don't like what you see when you smile at yourself in the mirror, cosmetic dentistry can help you change that. You don't need to know exactly what you want to change about your smile in advance. Cosmetic dentists can diagnose cosmetic issues and suggest treatments that can improve the appearance of your smile. Here are five techniques that can be used to give your mouth a smile makeover: 

1. Professional Cleaning

Experts suggest that people have their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year to prevent the buildup of tartar. However, many people skip the dentist's office, sometimes for years at a time. If it's been a while since your last dental appointment, you can start your smile makeover journey with a professional cleaning. You may be surprised at what a positive impact a simple cleaning can have on the aesthetics of your teeth.

2. Teeth Whitening Treatment

A professional cleaning can get rid of plaque and tartar buildup and even remove some surface stains. However, people with thinning enamel or deep stains may benefit from teeth whitening treatment. Teeth whitening treatment utilizes a peroxide-based solution to make teeth brighter and whiter. The types of teeth whitening treatments available at your cosmetic dentist's office are more effective than over-the-counter products that you can purchase yourself.

3. Dental Veneers

Some stains cannot be easily cleaned away with teeth whitening treatments. Other cosmetic problems, such as chips and cracks in your teeth, can likewise affect the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentists offer dental veneers for patients who would like to drastically change the appearance of their front teeth, incisors, and bicuspids. Dental veneers are placed in front of your teeth using strong dental glue. This treatment offers permanent, beautiful results for anyone who would like a whiter and more even smile.

4. Braces

Cosmetic dentists can also help people who suffer from misaligned teeth. Overcrowding, overbites, and underbites can all negatively impact the appearance of your smile. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, can allow you to achieve a straight and even smile. People who don't like the idea of wearing braces may be able to take advantage of alternative treatments, such as Invisalign, to achieve the same results.

5. Dental Crowns

Finally, dental crowns can be used to give you a smile makeover. Dental crowns can be used to strengthen and cover weak and misshapened teeth. Dental crowns can also be used as prosthetics when combined with dental implants, allowing patients to restore missing teeth.

Contact a local dental office, such as Austin Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, to learn more.