Cosmetic Dentistry
Do you have cracks, chips, stains, or other dental flaws that make you unhappy with the look of your smile? Columbia Smiles offers a range of cosmetic dentistry services that can give your smile a brighter, more balanced, and healthier appearance.
Dr. Nick Pournaras in Columbia, SC, provides personalized cosmetic dentistry treatments to help you achieve beautiful results.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Quality dentistry involves more than routine cleanings and exams. While general and restorative dentists focus on the health and function of your smile, our cosmetic dentist, Nick Pournaras, combines his deep understanding of dental aesthetics with the latest techniques to improve the appearance of your smile based on your individual goals.
While some forms of cosmetic dentistry can benefit your dental health, the main goal of treatment is to address cosmetic flaws, giving you a gorgeous smile that you'll feel confident enough to share in any situation.
Enjoy the Benefits of a Transformed Smile
Patients who undergo cosmetic dentistry treatments can enjoy benefits such as:
Improved Appearance
Even something as minor as yellowed teeth can make your smile look unhealthy. Cosmetic treatments are designed to improve the appearance of your smile.
Boosted Self-Confidence
Patients who have aesthetic issues with their smile often report feeling self-conscious. Cosmetic dentistry can transform the appearance of your grin so you feel confident sharing it with the world.
Am I a Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
You may be a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry treatments if you:
Have primarily cosmetic concerns
This method of dentistry focuses on the aesthetics of your smile. Some treatments, such as dental implants and crowns, are restorative in nature but can also improve the appearance of your smile.
Are in good oral health
You must be free of dental concerns such as tooth decay and gum disease. Our Columbia dental office offers comprehensive services to create a healthy foundation and help you qualify for cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Are ready to invest in your smile
Most cosmetic treatments are not covered by dental insurance. Cosmetic dentistry is an investment in your smile and carries benefits such as boosted self-confidence, making it a worthwhile investment for most patients.
"Truly amazing." Columbia Patients Love Our Practice
Felicia Kilgore
Columbia, SC
2024
I have done business with a few dental offices here in Columbia for over thirty plus years. This office is by far the most friendliest and thorough dental office I’ve experienced. They have modern and up to date technology. Dr. Nick and staff are the best in Columbia.
View on GoogleMontrice C
Columbia, SC
2024
Dr. Nick and his staff are truly amazing. I was so nervous today about my dental work. Dr. Nick and his staff delivered pain free care. I'm looking forward to my next appointment now. I'm ready to welcome my new smile!
View on GoogleOur Featured Cosmetic Dentistry Services
Teeth Whitening
Our professional whitening services can noticeably brighten your teeth in just one session. Your dentist can eliminate stubborn stains caused by coffee, tobacco, wine, and more with this quick, safe treatment. We also offer at-home teeth whitening kits so you can achieve a brighter smile on your own schedule.
Veneers
Veneers can enhance the appearance of your smile by masking minor damage, deep-set discoloration, and mild misalignment. With proper care, these thin shells can give your smile a whiter, more even look for up to 15 years. We offer porcelain veneers and minimal-prep veneers, both of which can be placed in only two appointments.
Gum Contouring
If you feel that you have a "gummy" smile, Dr. Pournaras can contour your gumline to create better proportions between your teeth and gum tissue. For this procedure, we use gentle laser dentistry to provide attractive results with greater accuracy, less discomfort, and a quicker recovery than traditional gum contouring methods.
Six Month Smiles
The Six Month Smiles® system uses clear aligner trays or clear brackets and tooth-colored wires to straighten your front teeth faster than Invisalign® or traditional braces. This subtle orthodontic treatment can effectively correct minor misalignment. If your misalignment issues are more complex, your dentist can refer you to a qualified orthodontist for care.
Dental Implants
Whether you are missing just one tooth or an entire arch, Dr. Pournaras and his master ceramist can design beautiful implant-supported replacements to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with ease. This restorative dentistry treatment supports the health of your jaw while also offering incredible cosmetic benefits.
Looking for Even More
Dramatic Results?
Customize Your Care With a Smile Makeover
If you want a more dramatic change than what one cosmetic treatment alone can provide, a smile makeover may be right for you. Your dentist can work with you to create your own smile makeover treatment plan, allowing you to combine procedures for a truly stunning transformation. Whether you want a solution for minor dental flaws or a brand-new smile, Columbia Smiles has options to help you achieve your goals.
"The best dentist experience I’ve had." High Praise for Our Dentistry Practice
John Shindledecker
Columbia, SC
2024
I was in Columbia for a work conference, when I began to experience terrible pain in my mouth. I was so happy to get a quick appointment at Columbia Smiles. I could not have been treated better, quicker, and with more kindness than I was here. They immediately identified the problem, explained it to me, and provided a course of treatment for the pain until i can fix the underlying problem. The entire staff was amazing and kind, thanks you all so much! Highly recommend if you need a dentist.
View on GoogleLaityn Shaw
Columbia, SC
2024
By far the best dentist experience I’ve had. Dr Nick is incredibly knowledgeable, talented, and clearly values his patients, his staff, and his craft. The entire staff is so sweet and makes going to the dentist feel like *not* the worst part of my day. After many terrible (and some traumatizing) experiences with other dental offices, I finally found one I love and trust, with an upscale vibe, fair prices, and an absolutely impeccable staff. Thank for all you do, Columbia Smiles!
View on GoogleWhat We Value When It Comes to Cosmetic Dentistry
Here’s why so many patients turn to our office in Columbia, SC, for cosmetic dentistry:
Individualized Treatment
Your smile is unique—your cosmetic dentistry treatment should be, too. Our dentist offers a comprehensive range of services to transform nearly any aesthetic aspect of your smile, even down to a single tooth. We’ll work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that puts you on the path to a smile you’re proud to show off.
Improving Oral Health
A beautiful new smile thrives on a healthy foundation. We’ll thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and oral structures at large to look out for any issues that need to be addressed first before moving forward with a cosmetic solution. By the time you’ve completed treatment, your smile will have renewed form and function.
Winning Results
By turning to our practice, you can feel confident that you’re partnering with the best. Dr. Nick is the official dentist for Miss USA and Miss Teen USA in both North Carolina and South Carolina. He has served numerous contestants and is ready to give those in Columbia, SC, the same caliber of attention and care.
Concerned About
Dental Care Costs?
We Accept Financing
The cost of cosmetic dentistry will vary from patient to patient based on their unique needs and smile goals. These solutions are an investment in your self-esteem and well-being; however, insurance policies do not typically cover cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Fortunately, our practice accepts financing through CareCredit®, a third-party lender that lets patients break costs into manageable monthly installments. Whatever your financial situation, we’ll review all options available to you to make our care as accessible as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
Q. How much does cosmetic dentistry cost?
A. The cost of your treatment at our Columbia dental practice will vary based on factors such as the type of treatment, the depth of treatment, and the materials used. For example, teeth whitening will cost less than veneers, and a patient receiving one veneer will pay less than a patient receiving multiple veneers. During your consultation, your dentist will craft a custom treatment plan, and we will then be able to provide you with an accurate quote so you can properly plan and budget for treatment.
Q. Do cosmetic dentistry treatments hurt?
A. No. Most treatments, like veneers and teeth whitening, are practically painless. For treatments like dental crowns that require more significant alteration of the teeth, your dentist will numb the area before treatment begins to ensure you are completely comfortable throughout.
Q. Can I combine restorative treatments with cosmetic treatments?
A. This will vary from patient to patient. In some cases, restorative treatments such as dental implants and crowns can improve the health, function, and appearance of your smile. Your dentist may also be able to combine treatments such as veneers or teeth whitening with restorative treatments like dental implants. However, you must be in otherwise good oral health before any cosmetic treatments can proceed.
Q. How long do cosmetic treatments take?
A. This will depend on your treatment. Teeth whitening can whiten your smile in as little as one appointment. Other treatments, like veneers and dental crowns, can take a minimum of two appointments. If you undergo an in-depth smile makeover, this may be done over the course of several appointments. Once your treatment plan is finalized, we will be able to provide you with an accurate timeline for your procedures.
Have more questions about cosmetic dentistry?
What Patients Have to Say About Our Columbia Dental Practice
Jeff Snow
Columbia, SC
2024
I had my second appointment with Dr Nick and his staff.I have to say the best experience every at a dentist office he and his team are amazing and they make you feel so a home.I can honestly say I look forward to going to the dentist now.If you are looking for a great dentist and staff I 1 recommend 100% you go there you want regret it.
View on GoogleJ Legree
Columbia, SC
2024
From the moment I stepped through the door of this dental office, I was greeted with warmth, friendliness, and an infectious energy that immediately put me at ease. Dr. Nick and the entire team exemplify professionalism coupled with genuine care for their patients. They took the time to thoroughly explain each treatment, ensuring I was comfortable and informed every step of the way. I'm thrilled to have found this dental office and am grateful to be a new patient.
View on Google
