There are many forms of dentistry such as orthodontics and restorative. When you aim to improve the look and feel of your teeth and gums, you will use methods that are classed as cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, fillings, gum contouring and veneers. Often this is referred to as a smile makeover.

These days, more and more dentists are also offering facial rejuvenation in the form of botox or dermal fillers though for this article we will concentrate on more traditional, though contemporary, forms of smile makeovers.

Teeth Whitening

Most people will find that even though they take great care in keeping their teeth clean, they will still become stained and discoloured over time, in particular from consumption of red wine, coffee and smoking.

There are generally two options for teeth whitening available at your dentist – the first is tray whitening where you will have the treatment applied over a course of 4-6 weeks. The second is laser whitening whereby the results are immediate and work is complete in one session.

It is possible to also buy home whitening kits, though we would always recommend such a procedure be carried out under the supervision of a dentist.

Veneers

Following on from teeth whitening which covers the shade of your teeth, veneers concentrate on the look and feel of a set of teeth. Made from ceramic or porcelain, the veneer is applied to the front of the tooth as a shell to improve it’s look – similar in many ways to false fingernails.

Veneers are applied when a person finds they have damaged their teeth, have gaps appearing, they are crooked or when teeth whitening fails to have an effect.

White Fillings

Fillings used to be made up of a silver amalgam which though it served it’s purpose well, were not aesthetically pleasing for the client and with numerous fillings they would be reluctant to open there mouth.

These days you can get white, tooth coloured fillings that are far more discreet and have become a popular choice despite being less durable than silver amalgam. Note, as these are classed as cosmetic dentistry you will not be able to get these on the NHS for free.

Gum Contouring

Often, people will find that they have excessive gums that hang over your teeth which results in them looking short. This is commonly known as a “gummy smile”. A dentist will combat this via Gum Contouring and Reshaping where a scalpel or laser is employed to remove the excess gum.

High Street Dental Practice is a private dentist based in East Grinstead, West Sussex. They offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services including teeth whitening, veneers and white fillings.