La Crosse
3143 State Road Suite 100, La Crosse, WI 54601
A coffee stain that never quite fades, a front tooth chipped years ago, or a gap that makes you hesitate before smiling in photos: these are some of the most common reasons patients across Wisconsin's Coulee Region ask us about cosmetic dentistry. At our La Crosse, Holmen, Arcadia and Viroqua offices, we treat cosmetic care as part of your overall dental health. Every option we recommend starts with healthy teeth and gums, and every plan is shaped around what you want your smile to look and feel like.
Cosmetic dentistry covers treatments that improve the color, shape, alignment and overall harmony of your teeth. For some patients, that means one visit for in-office teeth whitening. For others, it means a thoughtful plan that combines several treatments over time. We start with a cosmetic smile-design consultation, where we talk about what bothers you, look closely at your teeth and bite, and explain which options fit your goals.
Patients usually come to us with one of a few distinct concerns:
- Stained or dull teeth: In-office whitening can brighten natural enamel.
- Chipped, worn or uneven teeth: Porcelain veneers cover the front surfaces of teeth to refine their shape and shade.
- Damaged or heavily filled teeth: Crowns, including same-day CEREC crowns, as well as inlays and onlays restore strength and appearance together.
- Crooked or gapped teeth: Clear aligners gradually move teeth into better positions.
- Missing teeth: Bridges and dental implants fill gaps so your smile looks complete.
Because we have an on-site dental lab, our dentists and lab team work closely on shade, shape and fit. That close collaboration helps your restorations blend naturally with the teeth around them.
A good candidate for cosmetic treatment is someone whose teeth and gums are healthy enough to support it. If we find cavities, gum disease or other concerns during your exam, we treat those first. Cosmetic work placed on an unhealthy foundation does not serve you well, so our general dentists and hygienists may recommend a cleaning, fillings or gum disease treatment before we begin.
It also helps to know that different treatments suit different situations. Whitening works on natural enamel, so if you have older crowns or fillings on front teeth, we will talk about how they may look next to newly brightened teeth. Veneers and crowns involve shaping your natural teeth, so we explain exactly what that involves before you decide. If you clench or grind, we may suggest a night mouth guard to help protect your new work. You will never feel judged about how long it has been since your last visit. We simply start where you are.
How do I care for my smile after cosmetic treatment?
You care for most cosmetic work the same way you care for natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily and keep up with regular cleanings and exams. Those routine visits give us the chance to check your veneers, crowns or implants and catch small issues early.
Some treatments call for a little extra attention. After whitening, cutting back on coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco can help your results last longer. With veneers and crowns, avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects like ice. If you have dental implants, we provide ongoing implant maintenance as part of your regular care. How long results last depends on your habits, your bite and the treatment you choose, so we talk through realistic expectations for your situation during your consultation.
How can I pay for cosmetic dentistry?
We will go over the cost of your treatment plan before any work begins so you can make a decision that feels right. We work with many dental insurance plans, so please call your office to confirm your coverage. Keep in mind that insurance often treats purely cosmetic procedures differently than restorative care, and we are happy to help you understand what applies to you.
We also welcome self-pay patients and offer third-party financing through Cherry, CareCredit and Proceed Finance, subject to qualification and approval. If you don't have insurance, our Rivertown Membership Plans, also called the VIP Program, offer Classic, Deluxe and Kids plans. They include cleanings, exams, X-rays and fluoride, plus a discount on treatment. Membership plans cannot be combined with insurance.
What makes a visit with us different?
Our visits are designed to feel calm and personal while giving you clear answers about your options. We call this The Ascent Experience: advanced care, genuine comfort, and a better experience from start to finish. That includes small touches like a warm towelette, blanket, support pillow, headphones and essential oils, along with straightforward explanations at every step.
Whether you want a brighter shade before a wedding or a complete smile makeover, our team is ready to help you plan it close to home. Call our La Crosse, Holmen, Arcadia or Viroqua office to schedule your cosmetic smile-design consultation. We look forward to meeting you. Dentistry, Done Differently.