Cosmetic Dentistry

Whitening

Teeth stains are inevitable due to smoking or consumption of a variety of foods and drinks (soft drinks, tea, coffee, red wine etc.). However, modern teeth whitening technology has enabled dentists to safely whiten teeth without harm to the tooth structure.

Almost all whitening methods are similar in concept, but some are much more effective because of the way the whitening material is applied to the teeth. The concentration of the material used has great influence on the outcome, which is why less potent over-the-counter whitening systems or toothpastes usually don’t give patients the results they are hoping for.

There are usually two methods of application:
• A professionally made tray used at home to apply the whitening agent; this may involve applying the agent for a short period of time regularly over 1-2 weeks. This method most cost effective and also is easier to maintain.
• Application of the whitening agent by
a dentist in the dental chair; this may involve one to two visits which can take up to or over an hour and sometimes involves heat or a light to accelerate the whitening process

We can give you more detailed information and help you decide which method is more suitable for you and your teeth.

Tooth Coloured (Composite) Fillings

One of the most popular options available are composite fillings which are made from durable polymers that are similar in color to natural teeth. Because the composite fillings are tooth-colored, they look more natural and are less noticeable compared to other types of fillings.
They are chemically bonded to the tooth structure, therefore allowing strong filling retention and a more conservative tooth preparation. Composite fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-medium size restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. Less tooth structure is removed when the dentist prepares the tooth, and this may result in a smaller filling than that of an amalgam.

Bonding

Bonding is a procedure used to simply and inexpensively improve small irregularities and imperfections in front teeth. A tooth coloured resin is directly placed in the teeth and is set hard using a special curing light. The bond or adhesion to tooth enamel is very reliable. The procedure usually does not require any tooth preparation and is usually completed in one visit without local anaesthetic. Whilst a good aesthetic result is achieved the bonding resin isn't as strong as porcelain and is more prone to chipping over time.

Porcelain Veneers

This is one of the best ways to achieve that beautiful smile. Veneers and Laminates are a thin shell of porcelain that is bonded to the surface of the teeth. This can change their shape, shade, and position to improve the cosmetics of your teeth and smile. They are also used to replace and restore any lost tooth structure where necessary.
Veneers can enhance the shape of your teeth, make your teeth as white as you want. Additionally, porcelain veneers are bonded to your tooth structure, which gives them great strength and durability. Since they are very thin, Veneers are considered one of the most conservative cosmetic treatments available. Most of the time, very little structure is removed before placing veneers.