Short version: cosmetic dentistry is the umbrella term for treatments that refresh the look of your teeth and gums — colour, shape, alignment, and smile symmetry. Think teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, clear aligners, and selective gum contouring. It’s a category of services, not a formal specialty in Ontario. Clinics simply describe the cosmetic dental services they offer and clearly list dentist credentials (general dentist or certified specialist) in their bios.
What falls under the “cosmetic” umbrella?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on appearance, and sometimes overlaps with function. Common options include:
- Teeth whitening (bleaching): lightens stains with peroxide gels delivered in-office or via trays. Health Canada treats most whitening systems as cosmetics, guiding safety and labelling.
- Dental bonding (tooth-coloured resin): fixes small chips, closes gaps, and reshapes edges; usually minimal drilling.
- Porcelain veneers: thin ceramic shells bonded to the front of teeth to adjust colour, shape, or minor alignment. Veneers will need replacement eventually.
- Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign®): straighten teeth using removable trays; useful for mild-to-moderate crowding/spacing.
- Gum contouring: reshaping the gumline for symmetry, often combined with veneers or bonding.
- Aesthetic crowns/onlays: tooth-coloured restorations that restore strength and enhance appearance.
Good to know: your mouth should be healthy first. Active decay or gum disease is usually treated before cosmetic changes. Results vary depending on case and habits.
Coverage in Ontario: private insurance, OHIP and the CDCP
Private dental insurance
There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. The Ontario Dental Association notes there are thousands of plan variations. Your treatment plan is based on needs; your benefit plan decides reimbursement. Many plans exclude purely cosmetic procedures (e.g., whitening, elective veneers). Always check your booklet or ask for a pre-determination.
OHIP
OHIP does not cover routine office-based dental care. It covers eligible dental surgery in hospital, not elective cosmetic services.
CDCP (Canadian Dental Care Plan)
The CDCP helps with a wide range of dental services for eligible patients, but some are always excluded. Exclusions include:
- Veneers (composite or ceramic)
- Cosmetic treatment, including whitening
- Inlays/onlays; ¾ crowns
- Fixed bridges
- Implants and all implant-related procedures
Orthodontics under CDCP: starting in 2025, limited orthodontic coverage is available for patients who meet strict medical-need criteria. Cosmetic alignment alone isn’t covered.
When a “cosmetic” option might be covered
Sometimes an option that looks cosmetic is actually medically necessary:
- A crown for a broken tooth may be covered under major restorative categories, with preauthorization in some cases.
- Orthodontics may be covered under CDCP only when strict medical-need criteria are met.
Picking a cosmetic dental provider in Ontario
- Check the basics: look for clear bios showing whether each dentist is a general dentist or a certified specialist.
- Expect plain-language info: Ontario rules discourage testimonials, superlatives, and promises. Look for factual descriptions of services and what to expect.
- Ask about options and upkeep: whitening touch-ups, night guards after veneers, lifespan of restorations.
- Confirm coverage: pre-determination helps avoid surprises with your insurer or CDCP.
Quick FAQs
Is cosmetic dentistry a specialty in Ontario?
No. It’s a service category. Clinics describe the cosmetic dental services they provide and show dentist credentials.
Does the CDCP pay for veneers or whitening?
No. Both are excluded under the plan.
Is anything cosmetic ever covered by CDCP?
Yes — when it’s part of medically necessary care, such as crowns for broken teeth or orthodontics that meet strict criteria.
Bottom line
Cosmetic dentistry is about improving how your smile looks — safely and in a way that fits your goals and budget. In Ontario, the key is clear information: who’s providing care, what each option involves, and how coverage works across private plans, OHIP, and the CDCP. If you’re thinking about whitening, bonding, veneers, or aligners, booking a consultation with The Art of Dentistry is the best way to get a tailored plan and clear costs.
Dr. Sol Weiss is a renowned cosmetic dentist based in Toronto, celebrated for his exceptional skills, specialized training, and extensive experience in delivering aesthetic dental solutions. With a distinguished career spanning various media appearances and educational roles, including a former Assistant Professor of Dentistry position at the University of Manitoba, Dr. Weiss has earned a reputation as a leading authority in cosmetic dentistry. His dedication to excellence, active involvement in professional organizations, and commitment to staying at the forefront of dental advancements make him a sought-after expert in North America. Leveraging advanced techniques, such as Invisalign and teeth whitening, Dr. Weiss transforms smiles, allowing his patients to achieve their dream smiles with precision and artistry.
This article was written by a third party and does not reflect the views and opinions of The Art of Dentistry. The content of the article is based on general information available online and should not be relied on as a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article.