What dental specialty focuses specifically on procedures that enhance a patient's appearance?

Cosmetic dentistry is the specialty that centers on procedures aimed at improving the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile and overall dental appearance. This field encompasses a variety of treatments designed to enhance the color, shape, size, and alignment of teeth, as well as to improve the overall harmony of the facial structure. Common procedures might include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and smile makeovers.

In contrast, orthodontics primarily focuses on correcting malocclusions and misaligned teeth or jaws, rather than directly enhancing aesthetics through cosmetic procedures. Family dentistry provides comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages, dealing largely with preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment of dental issues, rather than focusing specifically on appearance. Pediatric dentistry is specialized for children and often emphasizes preventive care and the management of dental development, while not being primarily concerned with cosmetic enhancements. Thus, cosmetic dentistry stands out as the dedicated specialty for enhancing a patient's appearance.