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What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic Dentistry is the process of improving the appearance of your teeth. Other common names for the process are “Hollywood Smile”; so called because the procedures used are common in Tinsel town, “Wedding Smile”, named because naturally, many brides to be want to look their best on their big day; and “Smile Makeover”, for obvious reasons. There’s a reason that so many people in show business, positions of authority and the public eye opt for cosmetic dentistry, it’s because it works. The treatment improves self confidence dramatically, which positively affects all areas of life. |
What does Teeth Whitening involve?
Teeth Whitening is one of the processes used in cosmetic dentistry, and as the name implies, involves the whitening of your teeth. Teeth whitening is achieved by the use of bleach which contains peroxide. Simply put, the higher the peroxide percentage, the stronger the bleaching effect is. Cosmetic dentists use bleach with a much higher percentage of peroxide than those available for use at home, usually giving much better results. Safety is paramount, and the soft tissues of the lips and gums are covered with a protective gel prior to applying the bleach. A further procedure may be utilised which involves the use of a laser to to activate and speed up the process. This can take up to an hour. Cost is from £250 to £1500. |
How do veneers work?
Veneers are very thin but strong layers of porcelin or composite material which are cemented in place over the front of the teeth to dramatically approve their appearance. The process is often likened to glueing false finger nails over existing finger nails. The process varies depending on the veneers used, the process recommended by your cosmetic dentist, and cost. Most procedures involve shaving material off the front of your teeth so that the thin veneer can be fixed in place. Cheaper veneers made from composite material last from one to two years, the more expensive porcelain veneers perhaps five to ten years. All veneers will eventually need to be replaced. The ultimate veneers are probably Lumineers which are incredibly thin and strong, removing the need for material to be removed from your teeth. Other well known brands are Da vinci and Mac, both made in California and favoured by celebrities. Cost range is from £250 to £2,500 per veneer. |
Explain dental implants please
When one or more teeth are lost due to either trauma (an accident), decay or gum disease, dental implants can be fited as an alternative to dentures or a bridge. The procedure involves fixing an artificial replacement for your tooth root into your jaw bone, a porcelain tooth is then fitted by anchoring it to the implant. Several replacement teeth can be fitted to one implant. having dental implants fitted is a multi stage procedure which takes place over a number of months. Costs vary from around £700 to £3,500 per tooth depending on the type of implant used, the skill of your surgeon, and the complexity of the procedure. |
How does a bridge work?
A bridge is constructed in order to fit a porcelain tooth into a gap left by a lost tooth. The name derives from the fact that the teeth either side are used to support (or bridge) the replacement tooth. This involves preparation of the good teeth by grinding them down to accept the bridge. More than one missing tooth can be replaced. The cost varies from £200 to £1,000 per bridge. |
What is Invisalign?
Often referred to as invisible braces, Invisalign is a system for straightening crooked teeth. It replaces the old orthodontic techniques which required metal wire braces. A series of aligners are used and are changed as the teeth move into their correct position. the aligners are removed for eating. Cost is from £2,500 to £7,500. |
Do any of the procedures hurt?
Most procedures involving the teeth have some level of discomfort, either during the procedure, or for a short time afterwards. If necessary your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb your teeth and gums. Modern dentistry has make great strides in patient care and any possible discomfort is minimised. |
Do you offer payment plans?
Some procedures can be paid for using a payment plan, other require payment at the conclusion of treatment. Your dentist will inform you of the costs and your options. |
