Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry in Northam

The aim of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the appearance of teeth, gums, and smile.

Whereas general dentistry mainly focuses on oral health and functionality, cosmetic dentistry emphasises the aesthetic aspects of dental care. Its primary goal is to enhance the overall appearance of a person’s smile, often through various elective dental procedures.

Cosmetic dentistry offers a range of treatments and procedures designed to address common dental concerns and enhance the beauty of one’s teeth. Some of the most common procedures include:

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening aims to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth, resulting in a brighter and more vibrant smile. It can be done at our clinic or through the use of at-home whitening kits.

In-clinic teeth whitening treatments typically take about 1 to 2 hours, while at-home whitening kits are used 30 minutes a day over 1 to 2 weeks to achieve a similar result.

Dental veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of glass-ceramic material to fit over the front surface of the teeth. Dental veneers can correct teeth that are chipped, stained, misaligned, or have gaps, providing a natural and appealing appearance.

The process of getting dental veneers usually requires two visits. The first visit involves preparation of the teeth to allow space for the veneer. The second visit focuses on bonding the veneers to the teeth.

Composite veneers

A more cost-friendly option to veneers, this treatment can be used on cracked, chipped, gapped, discoloured or imperfectly shaped teeth to help improve their appearance. A tooth-coloured resin material is bonded directly to the teeth, which is then shaped appropriately and polished.

Composite veneers are generally a quick procedure that can usually be completed in a single visit, lasting around 30 minutes to 1 hour per tooth.

Dental implants

An implant is made up of two parts. The first is a titanium screw that’s surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a tooth root. The second part is a ceramic crown that is attached on top as the replacement tooth. Dental implants restore both function and aesthetics.

If an extraction of a tooth and bone grafting is required, healing time takes about six months total. Three months before the implant can be placed and another three months before attachment of the crown. Once healed, implants last a lifetime.

Orthodontic treatments

Often associated with correcting misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments such as braces and clear aligners also fall under cosmetic dentistry. These procedures can straighten teeth, improve bite alignment, and enhance the overall appearance of the smile.

The duration of orthodontic treatments depends on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment chosen. Traditional braces typically require 1 to 3 years, while clear aligner treatments like quick straight teeth may take 6 months to 2 years, depending on the individual’s orthodontic needs.

Gum contouring

Also known as gum reshaping, this involves removing excess gum tissue to improve the balance between teeth and gums. It can create a more proportionate and harmonious smile.

Gum contouring procedures are usually completed in a single visit and can take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of gum reshaping required.

Smile makeovers

A smile makeover combines various cosmetic procedures to comprehensively transform the appearance of the smile. It may include a combination of teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, and other treatments tailored to the individual’s specific needs and desires.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is not only about enhancing aesthetics but also boosting self-confidence and improving overall quality of life. By addressing common dental imperfections and achieving a more attractive smile, individuals can feel more comfortable, confident, and satisfied with their appearance.

However, it is important to consult with a qualified cosmetic dentist to determine the most appropriate treatment options based on individual needs and oral health conditions.

Our dentists are happy to discuss the cosmetic procedures that we offer to improve the health and appearance of your teeth.