A guide to the different types of cosmetic dentistry
We all want to be proud of our smiles and show off our teeth when we grin. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with naturally straight, flawless white teeth and many of us will have small imperfections, or even more major issues that make us want to hide our teeth away.
Luckily, cosmetic dentistry is an advanced field and there are many options when it comes to fixing those little and large problem areas with our teeth so we can smile with confidence once more.
Veneers
Many of us will suffer from having teeth that are worn, chipped, discoloured or slightly misshapen.
The process of applying veneers is relatively simple and is not an invasive surgical procedure and can lead to several positive benefits:
- Brighter looking smile
- White teeth
- Improved confidence
It’s no surprise that many movie stars and people in the public eye opt to have veneers to improve their smiles.
However, you don’t have to be a movie star to fix your smile with veneers and with an average cost of around £150-£300 per tooth, it is an affordable option as well.
Treatments for missing teeth
In terms of the kinds of dental issues that make sufferers feel the most self-conscious, missing teeth have to be up there as the worst. None of us wants to have to walk around with huge gaps in our smiles.
Many experienced and reputable dentists around the UK will now offer a form of teeth implants to people unlucky enough to suffer from missing teeth.
This advanced and modern form of dentistry is rapidly replacing the more old-fashioned solution for example Implant retained dentures. This surgical procedure is somewhat invasive but comes with a series of major benefits for the patient:
- Improved appearance
- Greater comfort
- Greater durability than normal dentures
- Improved oral health
Instant Smile Makeovers
Some of us will be unlucky enough to have a cracked or chipped tooth at some point in our life. This can be extremely painful but also very unsightly and worrying for our longer-term oral health is left untreated.
Thankfully, many of the top dental practices around the country are able to offer quick and reliable fixes for chipped and cracked teeth in the form of composite bonding.
By using a composite filling material, a dentist can correct the shape and appearance of cracks and chips in your teeth and the whole thing is:
- Non-invasive
- Non-damaging to your existing teeth
- Quick and affordable
Whether you want to go ahead with composite bonding, or instead opt for a veneer to treat a chip, your dentist will be able to guide you through the process and help you make the decision that is right for you, and help you get your smile back.
Fixed and removable orthodontics
While in most cases wonky teeth are not considered a medical worry, the sight of crisscrossed teeth and under or overbites can knock our confidence. The process to straighten teeth is not a quick one and the process can take up to a year.
There are several different options when it comes to straightening teeth, starting with fixed braces that will be applied and monitored by your dentist over the course of a year or so.
Alternatively, for a higher price, you can get an invisible ‘clear aligner’ that is removable and gently straightens your teeth in as little as six months. Learn more about Six Month Smiles.