Dentistry is no longer just a case of filling and extracting teeth. Nowadays many people turn to cosmetic dentistry as a way of improving their appearance, much as they would use cosmetic surgery or even a new hairstyle. Many people find that a new smile improves their self-confidence too.
There are a number of treatments that can be used to lighten, reshape and repair teeth. Cosmetic treatments include whitening, tooth coloured fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, and orthodontics.
White Fillings
For over 150 years fillings have been made out of a grey-silver material called ‘amalgam’. This is strong and long lasting. However, many people find it unattractive or are concerned about possible health risks. White fillings are a popular alternative to amalgam. New materials mean it is much easier to find a perfect colour match to a particular tooth. In most cases, it is impossible to see that the tooth even has a filling. White filling material can be used to cover unsightly marks on teeth, repair chipped or broken front teeth, enhance the shape of front teeth, or act as a standard filling material in back teeth.
Veneers
Veneers are an ideal way of treating discoloured or unsightly teeth, closing gaps between front teeth or repairing chips and cracks. They are thin slices of porcelain that are fitted precisely over the visible surface of front teeth, like a false fingernail would fit over a nail. To make a veneer, a very small amount of enamel is removed from your tooth. An impression is taken for the veneer to be made in the laboratory and then bonded to the tooth. They match the colour, appearance and translucence of your natural teeth.
