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Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. It encompasses a range of treatments designed to enhance the aesthetics of your teeth, whether you’re looking to correct discoloration, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth. Unlike general dentistry, which addresses oral health issues and preventative care, cosmetic dentistry aims to boost your confidence by creating a more attractive smile. 

This branch of dentistry combines art and science to achieve natural-looking results that can significantly enhance your overall appearance. At Dental West NYC, we are proud to offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry services in Upper West Side NYC for your unique needs.

The Difference Between Cosmetic and General Dentistry

While both cosmetic and general dentistry share the goal of maintaining oral health, they differ significantly in focus and outcomes. General dentistry involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy. Procedures like cleanings, fillings, and root canals fall under this category. In contrast, cosmetic dentistry is elective and primarily concerned with the appearance of your teeth. Although some treatments overlap, such as crowns and bonding, cosmetic dentistry emphasizes aesthetics, while general dentistry focuses on functionality and overall oral health.

Common procedures in cosmetic dentistry include teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, and orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. Teeth whitening is a popular choice for those looking to brighten their smile and remove stains. Veneers are thin shells placed over the front of teeth to correct shape, size, and color. Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to fix chips or cracks, while orthodontic treatments realign teeth for both cosmetic and functional benefits. These procedures can be customized to address specific concerns, helping you achieve your desired look.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry in Upper West Side NYC

Benefits of cosmetic dentistry include, but are not limited to, the following:

Improved Appearance and Confidence

One of the most significant benefits of cosmetic dentistry in Upper West Side is the boost in appearance and confidence it provides. A beautiful smile can enhance your self-esteem and positively impact your social and professional interactions. Procedures like teeth whitening and veneers can transform a dull, discolored smile into a dazzling one, making you feel more confident in your appearance. When you’re happy with your smile, it shows in your interactions, helping you make better first impressions and feel more at ease in social settings.

Enhanced Oral Health

Beyond aesthetics, cosmetic dentistry also contributes to better oral health. Procedures like dental bonding and veneers can protect damaged teeth from further wear and tear, preventing future dental issues. Correcting misaligned teeth with Invisalign or braces can make it easier to clean your teeth properly, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. By addressing these underlying issues, cosmetic dentistry not only beautifies your smile but also promotes long-term oral health.

Long-Lasting Results and Durability

One of the key benefits of cosmetic dentistry is the longevity of its results. Many cosmetic procedures, such as veneers and dental implants, are designed to be durable and withstand the test of time. With proper care and maintenance, these treatments can last for many years, providing a lasting solution to dental imperfections. This durability means that investing in cosmetic dentistry can offer significant long-term value, both in terms of appearance and function.

Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures at Our Upper West Side Practice

Common cosmetic procedures our team at Dental West NYC is proud to offer include:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures, offering a quick and effective way to brighten your smile. Professional whitening treatments can remove years of stains caused by coffee, wine, smoking, and other factors. The process is safe and can be customized to achieve the desired level of brightness, making it a convenient option for many patients.

Veneers

Veneers are an excellent solution for covering stains, chips, gaps, and minor misalignments. 

Veneers are highly customizable, allowing you to achieve a natural look that complements your facial features. With proper care, veneers can last for many years, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution to various dental imperfections.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is quick and typically completed in a single visit, making it a convenient option for minor cosmetic corrections. The resin is carefully shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking repair. 

Dental bonding is a cost-effective way to enhance your smile and protect damaged teeth from further issues.

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry offers a modern approach to cosmetic treatments, using advanced laser technology for procedures like gum contouring and teeth whitening. Lasers provide precise control, minimizing discomfort and reducing recovery times. 

Gum contouring with lasers can create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing gum line, while laser teeth whitening can achieve rapid and impressive results. This technology ensures a high level of accuracy and effectiveness in cosmetic dental treatments in Upper West Side NYC.

Invisalign and Braces

Invisalign and traditional braces are popular options for correcting misaligned teeth. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners that gradually shift teeth into place, offering a discreet and convenient alternative to metal braces. Traditional braces, on the other hand, are highly effective for more complex alignment issues. Both options can improve the appearance and function of your teeth, leading to a healthier and more attractive smile.

Our Wholistic Approach to Cosmetic Dentistry

At Dental West NYC, “wholistic” (with a W) means treating the whole person and considering the entire oral system when planning cosmetic procedures. Unlike some practices that use the term “holistic” to promote unproven techniques or materials, our approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based dentistry.

Meet Dr. Leora Walter

Dr. Leora Walter isn’t your typical dentist – she makes dental visits something to look forward to! With her collection of stylish glasses, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine warmth, she transforms what might be an anxiety-producing experience into something enjoyable. Dr. Walter combines her prosthodontic expertise with a conservative approach that preserves your natural teeth. She takes time to listen, explain procedures thoroughly, and create personalized treatment plans that consider your entire oral health system. Her patients appreciate not just her technical excellence, but her ability to make them feel comfortable and understood in the dental chair – all while looking forward to seeing which fabulous frames she’ll be wearing at their next visit!

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

At Dental West NYC, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier cosmetic dentistry services tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Whether you are looking for a simple teeth whitening or a total smile makeover, our team of skilled cosmetic dentists brings extensive training and experience to every treatment, ensuring high-quality results. Our personalized approach means we take the time to understand your goals and design a treatment plan that aligns with your vision for a perfect smile.

Choosing Dental West NYC means choosing a practice committed to excellence and patient satisfaction. We are located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and have built a reputation for delivering outstanding cosmetic dental care. Our premier Upper West Side dentist, Dr. Walter, is here to ensure that you get the preventative and cosmetic dentistry care you need. We also offer free fluoride treatments with every cleaning. To schedule an appointment today, please call (212) 580-4520 or use our contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

Do you take insurance?

We are a fee-for-service practice, which means payment is due at the time of service. However, we will maximize your insurance benefits by submitting claims on your behalf as a courtesy. We work to ensure you get the maximum reimbursement possible from your insurance provider. Unlike insurance-based practices that may recommend unnecessary procedures to maximize their insurance reimbursement, we focus on maximizing insurance benefits for you, the patient.

Will cosmetic dental procedures hurt?

Your comfort is our priority. Most cosmetic procedures cause minimal discomfort, and we use appropriate anesthetics to ensure you feel little to no pain during treatment. Dr. Walter takes time to ensure you’re properly numbed before beginning any procedure. For anxious patients, we discuss your concerns upfront and can offer options to help you feel more comfortable.

How long is the recovery time for cosmetic procedures?

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. Minimally invasive treatments like teeth whitening or bonding require virtually no recovery time. Procedures like veneers typically involve some sensitivity for a few days. Dr. Walter will provide specific recovery expectations for your treatment plan during your consultation.

How do I make an appointment?

Making an appointment at Dental West NYC is easy! You can call our office at (212) 580-4520 or use our convenient online booking system on our website. New patients are welcome, and we offer comprehensive consultations to discuss your cosmetic goals and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

How much do cosmetic procedures cost?

The cost of cosmetic procedures varies based on the specific treatment, complexity, and extent of work needed. During your consultation, we’ll provide transparent pricing information. While we’re a fee-for-service practice, we’ll help maximize any insurance benefits you may have and can discuss payment options to make your treatment more affordable.

Leora Walter

EXPERTLY REVIEWED BY

Leora Walter

May 1, 2025

Dr. Leora Walter is a surgically trained prosthodontist and an elite dentists, with an expertise in cosmetic procedures at Dental West NYC on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

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Contact

(212) 580-4520
115 Central Park West
Suite 4
New York, NY 10023
Hours: Monday – Friday / 9am – 5pm
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