Cosmetic dentistry covers a variety of treatments. part 1 of ‘A guide to cosmetic dentistry’ includes teeth whitening, teeth straightening and white fillings.
Teeth whitening
What is teeth whitening?
Let’s begin with our most self-explanatory treatment on the list…. This one does exactly what it says on the tin. The ageing process and taking poor care of your teeth results in yellow-stained teeth. Here at Cornerhouse, our bespoke process makes this treatment 100% safe and highly effective. If you are thinking of getting your teeth whitened, it is paramount to steer clear of at-home methods and beauty therapists who may not have a relevant qualification in order to carry out this process safely.
What is the process?
Your dentist will create impressions of your teeth in order to create custom made whitening trays that will be used to administer a whitening agent. This agent can cause damage to your gums if it is not applied in this way, as it leeks over trays that do not fit your teeth. This is why it is essential to have this carried out as a bespoke procedure.
Teeth straightening
Veneers
Veneers can be used to restore discoloured, cracked or misaligned teeth.
What is the process?
Your dentist here at Cornerhouse will take a mould or impression of your teeth. This is sent to the dental technician who will create your veneers. In the same way that a false nail is placed, veneers are bonded into position and have the look and feel of real teeth. Your original tooth or teeth will be etched into shape – this involves removing a thin layer of your tooth’s enamel to ensure that your veneers are the same thickness as your other teeth.
Orthodontics
There are various orthodontic appliances that can be used to straighten teeth including traditional metal braces, Six Month Smiles, Invisalign aligners, lingual braces and more. Six Month Smiles is a fast-track way of straightening teeth and very popular with our patients. One of the more cosmetically appealing teeth-straightening methods, this treatment consists of a brace with clear brackets and tooth-coloured wires, so your friends and family will barely notice you’re undergoing treatment. Learn more about Invisalign in Norwich.
White fillings
Those eligible for white fillings have chipped teeth or smaller gaps in their teeth. These are generally made from an amalgam containing glass and resin particles which are subsequently cemented with a bonding agent. This type of filling is usually favoured when the tooth or teeth in question are particularly visible.
What is the process?
Your dentist will remove any decay from the area and then use a handpiece (a type of drill). Following this, your tooth will be prepared for the filling to be placed. Your tooth will be etched (small holes will be made into your tooth enamel), and then filled with the amalgam material as well as a bonding material which will help prevent any decay.
Part 2 of this blog will be uploaded next month (August), covering crowns and caps, bridges and other orthodontic procedures used to improve your smile.