There are many forms of dentistry such as orthodontics and restorative. When you aim to improve the look and feel of your teeth and gums, you will use methods that are classed as cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, fillings, gum contouring and veneers. Often this is referred to as a smile makeover.

In addition to this, a contemporary dentist will often also be able to offer services such as dermal fillers to extend the facial rejuvenation on offer. However, for the purpose of this article we will look at more traditional methods.

Teeth Whitening

Over time, even with the most stringent personal dental care, it is likely a person’s teeth will become discoloured and stained from things such as coffee, red wine and smoking.

There are generally two options for teeth whitening available at your dentist - the first is tray whitening where you will have the treatment applied over a course of 4-6 weeks. The second is laser whitening whereby the results are immediate and work is complete in one session.

In addition to this, it is actually possible to purchase home whitening kits and apply the treatment yourself at home, whilst this maybe cost effective there are risks involved and we would always recommend that a dentist supervises your treatment.

Veneers

As opposed to tooth whitening that focuses on the coloration of your teeth, the application of veneers focuses on their visual appearance. Veneers can be made from porcelain or ceramic and as a thin laminate they are applied to the front of a person’s teeth in order to improve the aesthetics of the mouth in a similar way in which false fingernails are applied to fingers.

These are used when teeth are damaged, have gaps, are crooked or are stained beyond the help of teeth whitening.

White Fillings

If you had a filling 20 years ago, it would’ve been created with a silver amalgam which whilst functional was unsightly and once a person had more than one filling in their mouth, it would be an issue for them to open their mouth or smile.

Though less durable, white tooth coloured fillings are now a popular alternative, though note, as they are classed as cosmetic dentistry, you wouldn’t be able to obtain these for free on the NHS.#

Gum Contouring

Many people find they have what is referred to as a “gummy smile” - this is when your gums hang low over your teeth which in turn makes them look short. Your dentist will be able to remedy this via a process called Gum Contouring and Reshaping where they will use a scalpel and/or last to cut at excess gum.

High Street Dental Practice is a private dentist based in East Grinstead, West Sussex. They offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services including teeth whitening, veneers and white fillings.