Cosmetic dentistry treatments to consider!

Not too happy with the appearance of your teeth? From whitening and dental veneers to Invisalign and braces, Dr Christina Liew from Smilefocus shares her insights on a few common cosmetic dentistry treatments and their health benefits that go beyond just a better-looking smile.

What are some typical concerns patients come to you with when they’re unhappy with their smile?

There are several factors we discuss when we look at improving aesthetics, especially the smile. The most common concerns are the colour or shade of the teeth, the shape of the teeth, the position of the teeth, and the individual’s lip line – that is, how much of the teeth or gums are seen when smiling.

What cosmetic dentistry treatments do you usually recommend?

If the concern is the colour or shade of the teeth, I usually recommend teeth whitening procedures. There are different whitening methods available. However, teeth whitening only works on the natural tooth structure and will not have any effect on restorations such as fillings or crowns. If the concern is the shape of the teeth, restorative options such as dental veneers or composite bonding (composite buildups) may be recommended. If the concern is the position of the teeth, orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners like Invisalign is usually a good option.

I’m trying to decide between dental veneers and composite bonding – how do I know which is right for me?

This depends on the tooth itself, as well as your budget and the time you have available. Porcelain veneers offer colour stability and can improve both the shape and colour of the teeth. The material is also strong. However, they are more expensive, cannot be repaired if damaged, often require the teeth to be drilled, and usually require more than one appointment.

Composite bonding can also improve both the shape and colour of the teeth. The material can be repaired by adding more composite if required. It’s cheaper than porcelain veneers and can usually be completed in one appointment. However, it can stain, especially if you smoke or consume a lot of dark-coloured foods and drinks, and it may not last as long as porcelain veneers.

What about teeth straightening? What are the pros and cons of Invisalign versus traditional braces?

Every situation is different, and each case needs to be assessed individually. The factors that can influence which way cosmetic dentistry treatment goes include cost, the expected duration of treatment, the severity of the misalignment and patient compliance. Invisalign is usually more expensive than traditional braces. In some cases, fixed braces may provide a more predictable result than Invisalign. Also, Invisalign aligners must be changed regularly. If the patient does not follow instructions or wear the aligners as recommended, the treatment may be unsuccessful.

Beyond aesthetics, are there health benefits that come with cosmetic dentistry treatments?

Giving an individual the confidence to smile is a huge psychological benefit. This can improve mental health and self-confidence. Teeth that are misaligned or crowded can also compromise dental hygiene – and poor dental hygiene can lead to dental cavities, gum problems and halitosis. Misaligned teeth can also contribute to excessive tooth wear, speech issues and temporomandibular joint problems.

About the dentist

General dentist Dr Christina Liew is originally from Melbourne, Australia, and trained there before relocating to Singapore. She joined Smilefocus in 2003.

Smilefocus
#08-02/03 & #08-07/08 Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Boulevard
6834 0877 | 6733 9882 | smilefocus.com.sg

This article on cosmetic dentistry treatments like dental veneers and teeth whitening first appeared in the September 2026 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest issue or an annual subscription, or read the digital version for free now.