The change in dentistry from need based dentistry to elective dentistry has made a significant impact on the profession and the public perception of dentists. It is estimated that up to one half of the dentistry accomplished at this time is elective. Much of this treatment is what could be considered to be esthetic dentistry including bleaching, bonding, veneers, tooth colored inlays and onlays, non metallic crowns and fixed prosthesis. Dentists and their staff must be proactive in their patient educational activities to stimulate patients to desire these elective procedures. Self-instruction is perhaps the best way to cope with the expanding area of esthetic dentistry.