Cosmetic Dentist: What They Do and Whether It Is a Specialty in India

No. India recognises a fixed list of nine MDS branches, and cosmetic dentistry is not on it. The branches that do touch appearance are prosthodontics, orthodontics and periodontology, covered in our guide to the types of dentists.

So cosmetic dentist describes a dentist's interest or extra training, usually through short courses, rather than a degree. That is not a criticism; many excellent cosmetic results come from general dentists. It does mean the title alone tells you little about qualification.

Cosmetic work includes teeth whitening, which our guide asks about in is teeth whitening safe, veneers, tooth-coloured bonding, closing gaps, reshaping chipped or uneven teeth, and gum contouring. A combined plan for the whole smile is described on the smile design page.

Straightening teeth with braces or aligners and replacing teeth with crowns can also be part of a smile makeover, and those cases may involve a specialist.

Start with the basics: a BDS or MDS, and a State Dental Council registration number, which is public record. Then ask which procedures they do regularly, what the realistic limits are for your teeth, and what the alternatives are, including doing nothing.

Be cautious of anyone who promises a particular result before examining you, or recommends removing healthy enamel without discussing other options. Cost pages such as veneers cost show what drives the range.