Cosmetic dentistry in North Raleigh
Thoughtful options for a smile that feels like yours
Cosmetic dentistry can address color, shape, spacing, and alignment while respecting the health and character of your smile. We focus on conservative choices, realistic expectations, and a plan designed for you.
Request a Cosmetic Consultation
Begin with What You Would Like to Change
You may have one specific concern or simply feel that your smile no longer reflects how you want to look. A cosmetic consultation gives you space to describe the change you hope to see and learn which options are suitable for your teeth.
Before recommending cosmetic treatment, Dr. Scanlan evaluates tooth and gum health, existing dental work, your bite, and the features that make your smile individual. Sometimes a simple approach is enough. Sometimes treating health or function first creates a better foundation.
Explore Cosmetic Services
Choose a service to learn what it addresses, how the visit works, and what you can expect from care.
Invisalign
Clear aligner treatment for appropriate alignment and spacing concerns after an individualized evaluation.
Explore Invisalign →Teeth Whitening
Professional options for lightening natural tooth enamel and planning around sensitivity or existing restorations.
Explore Teeth Whitening →Tooth Bonding
Tooth-colored material used conservatively to reshape, repair, or refine selected areas of a smile.
Explore Tooth Bonding →Veneers
Thin restorations planned for appropriate changes in tooth shape, color, proportion, or surface appearance.
Explore Veneers →How We Plan Cosmetic Care
A thoughtful result comes from understanding how each choice affects the whole smile, including natural teeth, restorations, gums, and the bite.
Define the Goal
We begin with what matters to you and translate that goal into specific, realistic treatment choices.
Evaluate the Foundation
Healthy teeth and gums, stable function, and suitable enamel guide which options are appropriate.
Sequence the Details
Whitening, alignment, bonding, and veneers may need a particular order so colors and proportions work together.
A Natural, Individual Result
Cosmetic care should suit your features and still look like your smile. We use the most conservative suitable option and explain the maintenance each treatment requires.
Conservative Choices
When planning cosmetic treatment, the smallest appropriate change may preserve more natural tooth structure and keep future options open.
Realistic Expectations
Existing restorations, including fillings and crowns, help guide cosmetic treatment planning so the final result looks natural and coordinated.
Long-Term Care
Retainers, touch-ups, repairs, home care, and routine visits help protect the result over time.
Cosmetic Dentistry Questions
How do I know which cosmetic treatment is right for me?
That depends on what you want to change, the health of your teeth and gums, existing restorations, your bite, and how much change is appropriate. A consultation lets Dr. Scanlan compare suitable options with you. Our guide to what cosmetic dentistry can and cannot fix explains the options and their limits. Our comparison of veneers, bonding, and whitening explains which concerns each option is designed to address.
Will whitening change the color of fillings, crowns, bonding, or veneers?
No. Whitening changes natural tooth enamel but does not lighten dental restorations. If visible restorations are present, their color and position should be considered before you begin.
Is Invisalign appropriate for every alignment concern?
No. Clear aligners can treat many concerns, but candidacy depends on the type and complexity of tooth movement, oral health, and the patient's ability to wear aligners consistently. Traditional or complex orthodontic care is referred when appropriate, with continued coordination from our office.
Does tooth bonding require removing natural enamel?
Bonding is often a conservative option and may require little or no enamel removal, depending on the tooth and the planned change. Dr. Scanlan will explain the preparation, limitations, and alternatives before treatment.
Are veneers reversible?
Veneers may require removal of some enamel, which means the decision can be irreversible. The amount of preparation varies, so candidacy, alternatives, maintenance, and long-term expectations should be discussed carefully.
Can cosmetic care be combined with restorative treatment?
Yes. When health, function, and appearance overlap, the treatments should be planned together. Addressing decay, gum inflammation, damaged teeth, or bite concerns first may create a healthier and more predictable foundation.
Let’s Plan Your Visit
Tell us a little about the visit you need. Our care team will answer your questions and help you schedule with Dr. Scanlan. If a tooth is hurting or your concern is urgent, please call the office.