Cosmetic Dental Procedures Available in Ontario

Cosmetic dentistry has evolved significantly over the past decade. Advances in materials, technology, and techniques mean that Ontario patients now have access to a wider range of treatments than ever before — from quick, non-invasive procedures like whitening to comprehensive transformations involving implants, veneers, and gum reshaping.

At Orion Dental in Scarborough and Milton, we offer many of these procedures under one roof. This guide provides an overview of the cosmetic dental treatments available to help you understand your options before booking a consultation.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is the most accessible cosmetic dental procedure. It uses professional-grade bleaching agents — typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide — to break down stains and brighten teeth by several shades. Ontario dental practices typically offer two formats:

In-office whitening (such as Philips Zoom) delivers immediate results in about an hour. The dentist applies the whitening gel directly and may use a special light to accelerate the process. Take-home kits use custom-fitted trays with a lower-concentration gel, applied daily for two to three weeks for gradual brightening.

Professional whitening uses stronger agents under supervision and is customised to the patient. The treatment is tailored to each patient's needs and sensitivity level.

Dental Bonding

Cosmetic bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to repair chips, cracks, gaps, and minor shape irregularities. The resin is sculpted directly onto the tooth, hardened with an ultraviolet curing light, and polished to a natural finish.

Bonding is one of the quicker and lower-cost cosmetic procedures — often completed in a single 30- to 60-minute visit per tooth. It requires minimal or no enamel removal, making it a conservative option. The coating also reinforces the tooth structure and helps protect against further decay.

Porcelain and Composite Veneers

Veneers are custom-made thin shells that cover the front surface of teeth to improve their colour, shape, size, or alignment. They are an excellent option for patients seeking a comprehensive smile transformation.

Porcelain veneers are fabricated in a dental laboratory and offer greater stain resistance and natural translucency. They typically last 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers are applied directly in the chair, are more affordable, and can be completed in a single visit — though they may not last as long (5 to 7 years on average).

Dental Implants

Dental implants replace missing teeth with a biocompatible titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone. Over several months, the post fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. A custom crown is then attached via an abutment, creating a replacement that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Implants generally have a longer expected lifespan than bridges or dentures. They prevent the bone loss that occurs when a tooth is missing and do not require modification of adjacent teeth (unlike bridges). With proper care, implants may last 20 years or more. Individual results vary.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are protective caps placed over damaged, weakened, or severely discoloured teeth. Modern crowns are made from tooth-coloured materials like porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They are commonly placed after root canal treatment, to cover large fillings, or to replace old metal restorations with natural-looking alternatives. A crown typically requires two appointments — one for preparation and impressions, and another for placement of the permanent crown.

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations used when a tooth has moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a standard filling but does not require a full crown. They are fabricated in a dental laboratory from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, and then bonded to the tooth.

Inlays fit within the cusps (pointed edges) of a tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps. Both options strengthen the tooth structure while improving appearance — particularly when replacing old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-coloured materials.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually straighten teeth without traditional metal braces. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before progressing to the next set, with treatment typically lasting 6 to 18 months depending on the complexity of the case.

Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing — making them a popular choice for adults and older teens who want to improve their alignment discreetly. They can address crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites in many cases.

Bite Analysis and Reshaping

An uneven bite can result from tooth loss, natural wear patterns, or developmental factors. During a bite analysis, your dentist evaluates how your upper and lower teeth come together and identifies any areas of uneven contact or premature wear.

Treatment may involve minor tooth reshaping (removing small amounts of enamel to even out the bite surface), orthodontic correction, or restorative work such as crowns or onlays. Addressing bite imbalances can reduce wear on teeth, alleviate jaw discomfort, and improve overall dental function. If grinding or clenching is contributing to the problem, a custom night guard may also be recommended.

Gum Tissue Contouring

Some patients feel their smile shows too much gum tissue (sometimes called a “gummy smile”) or that their gum line is uneven. Gum contouring — also known as gum reshaping or gingivectomy — uses dental laser technology to precisely remove or reshape excess gum tissue, revealing more of the tooth surface and creating a more balanced, proportionate smile.

Laser gum contouring is typically completed in a single appointment with minimal discomfort and faster healing compared to traditional surgical approaches. The results are permanent, though good oral hygiene is essential to maintain gum health afterward.

How to Choose the Right Procedure

With so many options available, choosing the right cosmetic treatment starts with understanding your specific goals. Here is a framework to guide your decision:

Get Started with a Cosmetic Consultation

Whether you are interested in a simple whitening session or a comprehensive smile makeover, the first step is the same: a conversation with your dental team. At Orion Dental, we take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your oral health, and recommend treatments that make sense for your individual situation.

Schedule a cosmetic consultation at our Scarborough or Milton office. Book an appointment or call 416-291-0306 (Scarborough) / 905-636-9770 (Milton).