Your regular dentist can help you with a variety of tooth solutions -- from standard cleaning to cavity correction to root canal procedures. Chances are, however, your dentist can’t do everything. If you want to actually change your smile, sometimes you need to see a specialist.

In many fix-your-smile cases, that specialist is a cosmetic dentist. A cosmetic dentist focuses on performing services that improve the look of your smile. This may include professional whitening services, fitting you for invisible braces, putting in bridges, and placing veneers.

If you’re not sure whether you need a regular dentist or a cosmetic dentist, begin by calling your dental office and asking. If your dentist cannot perform the procedure you request, he or she can probably provide you with a referral to a cosmetic dentist in your area. Space Maintainers Laboratories (SML) can help with that too: 800-423-3270.