Tooth Whitening? Dental Implants? Veneers? - welcome to our definitive guide for cosmetic dentistry information!

The phrase “cosmetic dentistry” describes a number of dental procedures used singly or in combination to enhance a person’s smile. Many options exist depending on the “smile makeover” that is chosen. Using the following techniques, a specialist cosmetic dentist can repair teeth, straighten teeth, whiten teeth and even replace teeth to enhance appearance:

This site describes in user-friendly terms the various techniques used and offers links to other sites offering cosmetic dentistry services, cosmetic dentistry information and typical costs.

Nowadays many people use the services of a cosmetic dentist to significantly enhance their appearance by improving their teeth and smile. From minor dental procedures like tooth whitening to more involved treatments like multiple dental implants, cosmetic dentistry can lead the way to enhanced confidence and improved lifestyle.

No longer is the art of dentistry confined to fillings and tooth extraction!

Do you need Cosmetic Dentistry?

You may wish to consider cosmetic dentistry if you suffer lack of confidence resulting from cracked or broken teeth, stained or crooked teeth, missing teeth, unsightly fillings, gum problems, an uneven bite, chipped or rough teeth.

However, please keep in mind that cosmetic dentistry is a specialised procedure practised by highly trained professionals and consequently can be quite expensive – so please do your research thoroughly and ensure that you consult a trained professional!

You can find a listing of specialist cosmetic dentists here and please don’t forget to check out our “Featured Dentist of the Month” page.

A few recent dental survey findings:

74% of people believe they have unsightly teeth
68% of people are embarrassed about their smile in photographs
45% of people make judgements about others by the look of their smile
70% of people think an attractive smile helps romantically

A “smile makeover” can be a positive step to addressing these concerns and improving your confidence!

Summary of Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures:

Tooth/Teeth Whitening (Bleaching):

Teeth whitening or bleaching is becoming one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments because it is the fastest and most pain-free ways to an improved smile. Tooth whitening can be performed using a specially designed light source, usually a laser or halogen lamp and/or application of a bleaching gel. This treatment is non-invasive, painless and cost effective. Read more about cosmetic dental tooth whitening ....

Dental Implants:

A dental implant is a titanium rod which is implanted into the jawbone to act as a stable base for an artificial tooth or to provide support for bridges, crowns or loose dentures. Titanium is the material of choice because it can integrate with bone with minimal risk of rejection. Read on for more information about cosmetic dental tooth implants .....

Dental Crowns:

Cosmetic dental crowns are protective covers that are fitted over the existing sub-structure of a damaged or broken tooth. Until recently, porcelain was the material of choice due to its natural aesthetic qualities but now, full ceramic crowns are available which are not only stronger but also in the opinion of many, cosmetically superior to porcelain. Read on for more information about cosmetic dental crowns ....

Dental Bridges:

A cosmetic dental bridge can be used to “bridge” the gap between two adjacent teeth when a tooth is lost. A specially designed structure incorporating a hollow crown to support the missing tooth is prepared in the dental laboratory. Similarly to crowns and implants, the replacement bridge “tooth” will be matched to the rest of your teeth to give as natural a result as possible. Read on for more information about dental bridges ....

Dental Orthodontics:

Orthodontics is the specialist branch of cosmetic dentistry that deals with straightening or moving teeth to improve alignment and appearance. Orthodontics usually involves wearing an appliance called a brace which applies gentle pressure to the tooth or teeth to gradually move them to into the correct position. Today, new "user-friendly" braces e.g. "Invisalign" have been developed which are near invisible and more comfortable than traditional braces. Read on for more information about dental orthodontics ....

Dental Bonding:

Bonding is the name given to the technique whereby a tooth coloured material (typically a hardened plastic derivative) is fixed to the tooth or teeth to create a bond. This is similar to a filling but more extensive in that it can be used to change the size or shape of teeth in addition to repairing fractures and defects. Read on for more information about dental bonding ....

Next section..... Tooth Whitening Information