Cosmetic Dentistry

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

There's a lot more to dentistry these days than just putting in fillings and pulling out teeth; many people opt for 'cosmetic dentistry' to improve the appearance of their smile. Cosmetic dentistry is now accessible and affordable for almost everyone, and can be used to straighten, lighten, reshape and repair teeth. Cosmetic treatments used include dental veneers, crowns, bridges and tooth-coloured fillings.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Sussex
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Tooth Whitening

The most common form of tooth whitening is bleaching. A protective gel or rubber guard is applied to your gums. Then a safe bleaching product is applied to the teeth using a specially designed tray. The bleach releases oxygen into the enamel of the teeth, making them appear whiter. This treatment usually requires a visit to the dentist for an initial treatment, followed by a series of home treatments that you can apply yourself over the following few weeks.

The tooth whitening process can be speeded up by shining a laser onto the teeth after the bleaching product has been applied. This can reduce the time required for tooth whitening to just an hour.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a small post made of titanium which is attached to the jawbone in place of the root of a tooth. Dental implants are used to support fixed bridges, crowns, and dentures. Using dental implants means the false part of the tooth is permanently attached to the gum.

It usually takes between one and two hours to surgically attach each dental implant to the jawbone. The patient may need several days off work after surgery.

A wait of three to six months is then required, to ensure the bone and gum have healed naturally around the implant and created a strong enough bond strong enough to support the new false teeth. During this time, the patient is provided with a temporary bridge or dentures.

Dental Veneers

A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite material which is fitted over the front of a tooth, in order to improve the appearance of a tooth that is stained, discoloured or chipped. Dental veneers can also be used to fill gaps between teeth, or bring a tooth in line with the other teeth, in situations where an orthodontic brace may not be suitable.

A dental veneer is very thin and is held in place with especially strong adhesive. Because of this, very little preparation is required. However, at least two visits to the dentist are required, firstly to prepare the tooth and create an impression, and then to fit the finished veneer.

On the first visit, a tiny amount of enamel may need to be removed from the tooth, so that the veneer can be bonded seamlessly to the front of it. This is not a painful procedure, but anaesthetic can be given.

Your dentist will then make an impression of the tooth, which will be used to make the veneer. The colour of the veneer will be matched to that of the real tooth.