Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term encompassing any dental procedure or combination of procedures that improves the overall aesthetics (look) of your smile. A smile improvement is often known as a “smile makeover”, and due to its celebrity roots a “Hollywood smile” or even “Wedding smile”.
A beautiful smile can have numerous effects on an individual’s self-confidence, self-esteem and personal relationships. Over the past few years there have been a huge increase in media attention on the smile, with hit TV shows such as Extreme Makeover, and Embarrassing Bodies which has brought a public awareness about cosmetic dentistry and its accessibility.
Cosmetic dentistry is no longer something that is only available to celebrities, you too can have the smile of your dreams, and it is not as expensive as you think and you can take advantage of our interest free facilities.
There are numerous different cosmetic treatments available depending on the final result that is required. In the last few years treatments involving teeth straightening such as Invisalign clear braces, Inman Aligner and Quick Straight Teeth braces have become increasingly popular.
Teeth Whitening is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the UK but other treatment options include dental veneers, dental crowns, composite white fillings, gum contouring and the replacement of missing teeth with dental bridges, implants and cosmetic dentures.
To compliment these treatments we also offer facial rejuvenation treatments in the form of a non-surgical facelift, using a combination of Botox / Azzalure and dermal fillers such as Restylane and Juvaderm
We work closely with some great local laboratories to give you some fantastic results. Let us take a look and advise you as to the different ways we can achieve your goal.
Cosmetic dentistry is a solution to lots of different smile problems including cracked or chipped teeth, stained or discoloured teeth, gapped or misaligned teeth and missing teeth. It can also help with jaw alignment and gum problems.
Teeth whitening is currently the most popular form of cosmetic dentistry, the whole process can be completed in under two hours and leave your teeth up to eight shades lighter. However, cosmetic dentistry also offers options to those who want to fix other problems for which traditional routes like fixed metal braces may not be appropriate or acceptable.
Receding gums are a big aesthetic problem for many people plus they can increase the amount of sensitivity you have in your mouth when eating certain types of food and drinks. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can help improve the appearance of receding gums.
When gums recede, the gum tissue disappears backwards from the tooth and ends up exposing a lot more of the tooth than normal. It used to be a problem associated more with old age, hence the phrase, ‘long in the tooth’ but it can also be a symptom of gum disease and inadequate oral hygiene. Sometimes, in severe cases, even the tooth root can be exposed. The tooth root is made of dentine which is softer than enamel and the exposure of the root can lead to other serious problems including sensitivity to hot and cold foods and decay.
Receding gums are most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene and can lead to gum disease. Over brushing the teeth is another trigger as are badly fitting dentures.
Cosmetic dentistry can help with receding gums. This is a simple process using tissue taken from the roof of the mouth via a small skin graft and using it to cover the exposed part of the tooth. The existing gum is then pulled down over the graft.
Gum contouring can be performed using a variety of different techniques and is painless and can be completed in usually two or three sessions. Gum contouring will not only improve your smile but also protect your teeth from gum disease and other decay.
An overbite is a dental condition where the upper set of teeth overlap the lower set. There can be degrees of overbite and this is normally expressed in terms of a percentage. It is the percentage which determines whether the overbite is likely to cause problems and requires correction.
There are two types of overbite: vertical and horizontal. A vertical overbite is when the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth whereas, in a horizontal overbite, the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth. An overbite which is left unresolved can cause jaw pain even arthritis in later life, worn enamel, discomfort when eating and tooth decay. Some people also become very self-conscious about their overbite and it can cause psychological problems.
Cosmetic dentistry can help with an overbite and is an alternative to traditional fixed metal braces. Porcelain veneers have revolutionised the options available for those with an overbite. Thin porcelain shells are applied to the surface of the teeth. Veneers can be a cosmetic solution in some overbite cases but not all and are a quick and painless procedure.
Cosmetic dentistry offers an alternative to the discomfort and appearance of traditional fixed metal braces by improving the patient’s smile using one of a number of techniques.
Invisible braces – even in adulthood, teeth can be corrected and realigned and invisible braces do just that, invisibly working over a period of six months to two years to correct a crooked smile. Clear aligners can be custom fitted and are designed to be worn continuously other than for eating and cleaning. Discrete and comfortable, these are a great alternative to traditional metal braces
Dental bonding – this involves the application of a composite resin to the front surface of the affected teeth. Dental bonding is sometimes also called cosmetic bonding. Dental bonding can close gaps between the teeth, reshape ugly or peg teeth and even lighten discoloured teeth. This procedure is not invasive and is totally pain-free
Dental veneers – porcelain dental veneers are popular for people who have small gaps between their teeth or minor misalignments. Veneers are a porcelain cover for your teeth and sit directly on top of the tooth. They are stain-resistant and can last for several years and make an instant improvement to crooked teeth
Your dentist can determine which form of cosmetic dentistry is most appropriate to improve your smile and rectify crooked teeth during an initial assessment.