Hiding Your Smile in Photos? Options We'd Explain First
Covering your mouth when you laugh, or stepping to the back of the group photo, is more common than you might think. Here is how we would approach it, starting with the least invasive options.
5.0 · 282 Google reviews (opens in a new tab)- Most conservative option first
- Complete exam and digital scan
- CareCredit payment plans
- Se habla español
Caring for Gilroy since 2012
A ladder of options, from least invasive up
A general guide only. Dr. Ajlouni decides with you after an exam.
Option 1
Whitening
For stained or dull teeth: take-home trays, an average of 15–20 minutes a day for 5–10 days.
Whitening Special: $499.
Option 2
Dental bonding
Composite resin bonded to a tooth to repair chips or cracks, reduce gaps and hide discoloration. Bonding removes little, if any, of your original tooth.
Option 3
Aesthetic contouring
Reshaping teeth by sculpting their sides, which can address cracked, chipped, crooked or misaligned teeth, as an alternative to braces, crowns or veneers.
Option 4
Porcelain veneers
Thin porcelain shells affixed to the front of the teeth to cover imperfections. Depending on your concerns, you may need anywhere from 6–10 veneers or more, often combined with crowns and bonding on adjacent teeth.
No pressure
We always take the time to explain all your options so you can make an informed decision.
Cosmetic dentistryWhat a cosmetic consult looks like
Step 1
A complete oral exam
We use advanced tools to evaluate your bite, tooth shape, color and overall oral health.
Step 2
A talk about every option
Your dentist thoroughly discusses all treatment options, including the benefits, risks and costs, so expectations are clear before you decide.
Step 3
Care coordinated in one office
We coordinate nearly all of the cosmetic procedures we offer in our office, without referring you to a specialist.
Digital scanning
Our office uses a 3Shape Trios intraoral scanner and other state-of-the-art technology.
See our dental technologyHonest limits
Whitening has limits
Genetics, current stains, oral health, medications and tobacco affect results, and some yellow or brown stains are permanent.
Bigger changes take more visits
Veneers are often combined with other procedures, and a crown generally takes 2–3 visits over 3–4 weeks.
Most cosmetic care is optional
Most cosmetic procedures are non-essential, but they can make cleanings simpler, boost your confidence and reduce teeth grinding.
Payment options
Whitening
$499 Whitening Special
Professional teeth whitening for gatherings, photos and special occasions.
New patients
$149 new patient special
Exam, full X-rays and cleaning. Self-pay only; not valid with insurance.
Financing
CareCredit & payment plans
No-interest payment plans arranged through CareCredit, and in-office payment plans for major procedures: cosmetic, implants, bridges, veneers and dentures.
Cosmetic questions
Do I need veneers to fix a chipped tooth?
Not necessarily. Dental bonding is a common solution for chipped or cracked teeth, and we always recommend the most conservative treatment options.
Will I be referred to a specialist?
We coordinate nearly all of the cosmetic dental procedures we offer from our own office.
What will a consultation cost?
Call us at (408) 848-5040 and we will tell you what applies to your visit. The $149 new patient special (exam, full X-rays and cleaning) is for self-pay new patients and is not valid with insurance.
Do you accept my dental insurance?
We accept most PPO insurances. We do not currently accept HMO, DHMO, Medicaid, or Medicare plans. Regardless of coverage, the patient is responsible for the cost of service, so it helps to know your benefits before your visit.
Do you have Saturday appointments?
Dr. Ajlouni works one Saturday a month, mid-month, by appointment only. The next one is Saturday, November 14, 2026. Call us at (408) 848-5040 or book online.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes. Se habla español.
Keep exploring
New to the practice?
See what to expect at your first visit, the forms to bring and the $149 new patient special (self-pay only, not valid with insurance).
New patient informationWant to talk through your options?
Call us or book online. We will explain everything first.
- Most PPO plans accepted
- One Saturday a month · by appointment
- Se habla español