Our Treatments
Cosmetic Dentistry
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TOOTH WHITENING
Tooth whitening has become one of the most popular ways to improve your smile by lightening the existing shade of your natural teeth. This is a simple and effective treatment which can be carried out by your dentist or at home. Tooth whitening is non-invasive treatment which does not involve drilling or removal of the tooth surface.
There are many reasons why your teeth can become discoloured
- Drinking tea, coffee or red wine
- Food with strong colourings
- Smoking
- The natural act of ageing
- A tooth which is damaged by trauma
- Some teeth are naturally pigmented or stained as they develop
- Certain medications
- Only natural teeth respond to tooth whitening, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures or Implants cannot be whitened.
The outer surface of the tooth is called ‘Enamel’ this has tiny microscopic holes which trap everyday stains. Tooth whitening gel is a peroxide based compound which penetrates the holes removing the stains and lightening the teeth.
Your dentist will arrange for you to have a consultation appointment, where your teeth and gums will examined, you can then discuss if the tooth whitening option would be appropriate for you.
Your dentist will arrange for you to have a consultation appointment, where your teeth and gums will examined, you can then discuss if the tooth whitening option would be appropriate for you.
Home Whitening
Your dentist will provide you with the whitening kit which contains Custom made whitening trays and a peroxide-based gel. To have the trays made -
- Home whitening can take up to 14 days to achieve your desired shade.
- An impression (mould) is taken of your teeth using special dental "putty". The putty is placed into an impression tray; they are both then inserted into your mouth and pushed onto your teeth in order to take an impression. Once the dental putty is set the impression will be removed.
- The moulds are sent to the Dental Laboratory where our technician will fabricate your custom made whitening trays.
- The whitening gel is placed into your trays the tray is then placed onto your teeth for a period of time.
- The degree of whitening will vary from patient to patient, greyer teeth can take longer to respond. Tooth whitening is not permanent; the whitening process will need to be repeated overnight every 3-6 months, depending on exposure to high stain food stuffs and drinks.
BONDING
Dental bonding, also known as composite bonding, has been used in dentistry for many years. It is an excellent way to repair cracked, chipped and discolored teeth as well as replacing silver amalgam fillings. Dental bonding can also be used to close gaps and reshape misaligned teeth, providing a straighter, more uniform smile.
Bonding is probably the most conservative of all the cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves minimum alteration to the original tooth enamel, and is reversible if none of the tooth enamel is removed. The results are seen immediately.
Bonding is probably the most conservative of all the cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves minimum alteration to the original tooth enamel, and is reversible if none of the tooth enamel is removed. The results are seen immediately.
.jpg "Before & After")
Bonding has been used for many years, bonding composite to teeth is a very popular option because the material used matches very closely to the shade of your natural teeth.
The Procedure
A local anaesthetic will be given to numb the tooth and the surrounding tissue - not all bonding procedures require an injection.The tooth will be isolated from the rest of your teeth using a ‘rubber dam’ which is a thin sheet of rubber placed over your mouth. It is used to keep the tooth dry as saliva can compromise the bond of the composite.
The tooth will be thoroughly cleaned. All decay, food debris or tartar will be removed.The tooth is prepared using a phosphoric-acid-based gel; this roughens the surface of the tooth. A bonding agent (glue) is applied to the roughened surface and set using a concentrated beam of ultraviolet light. The composite is then applied in layers and set at each stage using the ultraviolet light. The composite will be continued to be applied in layers until the desired shape is achieved. The last stage is to polish the restoration to achieve the final shape and smooth finish.
Dental bonding, also known as composite bonding, has been used in dentistry for many years. It is an excellent way to repair cracked, chipped and discolored teeth as well as replacing silver amalgam fillings. Dental bonding can also be used to close gaps and reshape misaligned teeth, providing a straighter, more uniform smile.
Bonding is probably the most conservative of all the cosmetic dentistry. It involves minimum alteration to the original tooth enamel, and is reversible if none of the tooth enamel is removed. The results are seen immediately. A veneer is a thin layer of tooth coloured material which is placed over your natural tooth to mask the underlying enamel.
Bonding is probably the most conservative of all the cosmetic dentistry. It involves minimum alteration to the original tooth enamel, and is reversible if none of the tooth enamel is removed. The results are seen immediately. A veneer is a thin layer of tooth coloured material which is placed over your natural tooth to mask the underlying enamel.
Veneers are designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth by -
Masking permanently stained teeth.Closing Diastemas – spaces between your teeth.Straightening misaligned teeth.Improving the appearance of damaged or broken teeth due to decay or trauma.The procedure is usually completed in two visits which is a simple and relatively quick route to improve your smile, the first part of the procedure involves the dentist removing a small amount of enamel from the front of your tooth and the second appointment the veneers are fitted into place.Each veneer is individually handcrafted by our dental technician to correct the appearance of your teeth to create a healthy natural look.
The first part of the procedure will be a consultation appointment, this is when you can discuss with the dentist the concerns you have with your teeth and explain how you would like them improved.
Your dentist will have a ‘Diagnostic wax up’ made of your teeth to show how your teeth will look with veneers. This is a very simple procedure; the dentist will take impressions (mould) of your teeth and these will then be sent to the laboratory. Our technician will make a cast of your teeth using the supplied impressions (moulds). Dental wax is then applied to the cast, to show how the final veneers will look.
If you decide that veneers are for you, two appointments are then needed. The first appointment is when the dentist prepares the teeth and then a second is to fit the veneers.
The first part of the procedure will be a consultation appointment, this is when you can discuss with the dentist the concerns you have with your teeth and explain how you would like them improved.
Your dentist will have a ‘Diagnostic wax up’ made of your teeth to show how your teeth will look with veneers. This is a very simple procedure; the dentist will take impressions (mould) of your teeth and these will then be sent to the laboratory. Our technician will make a cast of your teeth using the supplied impressions (moulds). Dental wax is then applied to the cast, to show how the final veneers will look.
If you decide that veneers are for you, two appointments are then needed. The first appointment is when the dentist prepares the teeth and then a second is to fit the veneers.
The Preparation appointment
The dentist will give you a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding gum.A small amount of tooth is removed from the front surface of your tooth to make room for the veneers. The dentist will do this using a fast hand drill.An impression (mould) is taken of your teeth using special dental "putty". The putty is placed into an impression tray; they are both then inserted into your mouth and pushed onto your teeth in order to take an impression. Once the dental putty is set the impression will be removed. An impression is also taken of the opposing teeth, so the technician can see how you bite together.The dentist may fit temporary veneers to protect the teeth whilst your veneers are being fabricated.The impression (mould) of your teeth is sent to the Dental Laboratory where each veneer will be handcrafted to create your new smile. This process can take between two and three weeks.
The Fit Appointment
Your temporary veneers will be removed and your teeth will be washed to remove any remaining cement.Your new veneers will be temporarily placed using a special paste which will allow the dentist to make any adjustments that are required and to make sure that you are happy with the appearance.The veneers will then be removed and the tooth surface prepared for the dental adhesive. The veneers will be permanently cemented in place to create the beautiful smile you have been waiting for.Looking after your veneers
Veneers can last a long time but a lot depends on how you take care of them. You must maintain good oral hygiene brushing and flossing twice a day, also have 6 monthly examinations with your dentists.
Habits that damaged your natural teeth, like biting pens and pencils, opening bottle tops with your teeth and biting your nails will also damage your veneers.
Veneers can last a long time but a lot depends on how you take care of them. You must maintain good oral hygiene brushing and flossing twice a day, also have 6 monthly examinations with your dentists.
Habits that damaged your natural teeth, like biting pens and pencils, opening bottle tops with your teeth and biting your nails will also damage your veneers.
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CROWNS
A crown is a tooth shaped cover which fits over the existing structure of your natural tooth to protect and restore the tooth’s function.
Crowns can be used to -
- Strengthen teeth which have been weakened by decay or a large filling.
- Protect fractured, cracked and worn teeth.
- Improve the shape, alignment and shade of a tooth.
- After root canal treatment, to help strengthen the tooth.
- Each crown is individually handcrafted by our dental technician to create a healthy, natural look
ORTHODONTICS
INVISALIGN
Invisalign is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment used to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting the alignment of your teeth and the way you bite together. Unlike traditional fixed braces which are cemented to your teeth for the duration of your orthodontic treatment. Invisalign is clear, removable and comfortable which no one will know you’re wearing.
Invisalign uses the latest in computerised technology and three-dimensional modelling to generate a series of clear, see-through trays “aligners” which fit closely over your teeth and are virtually unnoticeable.
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The clear aligners are specially fabricated to fit your teeth exactly and work by moving your teeth gradually week by week, millimetre by millimetre into a position that gives you a natural-looking, beautiful smile.
Invisalign aligners are -
- Worn for 22 hours a day.
- Removed when you eat, brush and floss.
- Changed approximately every two weeks as your teeth slowly move.
- You will have regular progress checks with your dentist or orthodontist.
- Your treatment will be completed in approximately 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case
How Invisalign works
Your Invisalign treatment will start with a dental examination by an experienced Invisalign dentist. He will examine your teeth to see if invisalign is suitable for you, if so, an impression (mould) of your teeth will be taken using special dental "putty". The impression will then be sent to Invisalign for processing. Photographs and x-rays will be also taken of your teeth and smile from different angles.
At the invisalign laboratory, using the latest computer imaging, a three dimensional model is created. The model is used as a basis to generate a simulation of your teeth movement from their current position to the final desired position. Your dentist will then discuss the treatment plan with you.
Invisalign will use the computer simulation to fabricate a series of custom made aligners to fit your teeth exactly. Each aligner is slightly different, moving your teeth gradually into the desired position.
You will wear the aligner day and night, only taking then out to eat, brush and floss, for approximately two weeks, before moving on to the next aligner in the series.
Your dentist will need to see you every four to six weeks for a progress review; you will also receive the next aligners in the series at these appointments. This process will continue throughout your treatment until your teeth are in the desired position.
You will be given strict instructions on how to use and look after the aligners. They must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day. The success of the treatment highly depends on your compliance as a patient and requires dedication.
At the invisalign laboratory, using the latest computer imaging, a three dimensional model is created. The model is used as a basis to generate a simulation of your teeth movement from their current position to the final desired position. Your dentist will then discuss the treatment plan with you.
Invisalign will use the computer simulation to fabricate a series of custom made aligners to fit your teeth exactly. Each aligner is slightly different, moving your teeth gradually into the desired position.
You will wear the aligner day and night, only taking then out to eat, brush and floss, for approximately two weeks, before moving on to the next aligner in the series.
Your dentist will need to see you every four to six weeks for a progress review; you will also receive the next aligners in the series at these appointments. This process will continue throughout your treatment until your teeth are in the desired position.
You will be given strict instructions on how to use and look after the aligners. They must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day. The success of the treatment highly depends on your compliance as a patient and requires dedication.
CONVENTIONAL BRACES
Orthodontics is when the teeth are straightened or moved in order to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting the alignment of your teeth and the way you bite together. An incorrect bite can lead to long term dental problems and even jaw and head pain. By straightening the teeth, you also help to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases as straighter teeth are easier to clean.
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Orthodontic braces are either fixed or removable
Fixed braces consist of brackets and bands which are cemented (glued) to your teeth which hold flexible wires in place. In turn, these wires exert pressure on your teeth gently moving them into their correct position over the courses of your treatment.Removable braces can be taken in and out of the mouth. It has delicate wires and springs attached which move the teeth using gentle pressure. These are used for less complex cases or in conjunction with fixed Braces as part of a combined treatment.
How does the treatment start?
Your dentist will refer you to a dentist who specialises in braces 'Orthodontist', or you can refer yourself. At the first appointment, the Orthodontist will discuss with you what you would like to achieve from the orthodontic treatment. You will have an oral assessment, x-rays and moulds taken of your teeth.
At the second appointment the orthodontist will outline your treatment plan to discuss all the options available to you. In many cases, permanent teeth need to be taken out to create space in your mouth so that the remaining teeth can be moved. If this is the case, the extractions are carried out by your regular dentist.
At the second appointment the orthodontist will outline your treatment plan to discuss all the options available to you. In many cases, permanent teeth need to be taken out to create space in your mouth so that the remaining teeth can be moved. If this is the case, the extractions are carried out by your regular dentist.
How long does the treatment take?
It usually takes between 18-24 months but will vary according to how complex the case is. We will provide you with a time frame at the beginning of the treatment; however breakages of the brace will add time to the treatment.
Fitting the Braces
Appointment Three - Small plastic bands ‘Separators’ will be placed in between your molar teeth. The bands will stay in place for one week to create a space between the teeth for the permanent molar bands.
At the next appointment the molar bands, brackets and wires will be put in place. You may find that for the first couple of days your teeth may feel tender to bite and your jaw aches; this is because of the pressure of the brace, taking a headache tablet will help. If the discomfort lasts longer than a few days, make an appointment to see your orthodontist to see if your brace needs adjusting. You may find that your brace may also rub against the inside of your lips or cheeks. If this is the case, use the wax which your orthodontist will have supplied.
You will now need to see your Orthodontist every six to eight weeks to have the bands and wires changed, tightened or indeed elastics added. If you have had your brace tightened, you may fell a little discomfort later in the day which is a normal and a headache tablet will help.
You still require regular six month check-ups with your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy.
At the next appointment the molar bands, brackets and wires will be put in place. You may find that for the first couple of days your teeth may feel tender to bite and your jaw aches; this is because of the pressure of the brace, taking a headache tablet will help. If the discomfort lasts longer than a few days, make an appointment to see your orthodontist to see if your brace needs adjusting. You may find that your brace may also rub against the inside of your lips or cheeks. If this is the case, use the wax which your orthodontist will have supplied.
You will now need to see your Orthodontist every six to eight weeks to have the bands and wires changed, tightened or indeed elastics added. If you have had your brace tightened, you may fell a little discomfort later in the day which is a normal and a headache tablet will help.
You still require regular six month check-ups with your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy.
Looking after your Braces
You will be able to eat most of the foods you were eating before, but more care will need to be taken not to damage your braces. There are some foods that have to be cut out of your diet whilst you are wearing the appliance.
Toffees.Chewy sweets, like Mars bars or starburst for example.Hard foods, like crusty bread and apples.Also think twice before opening bottles with your teeth, biting pen tops or chewing your finger nails as these can also damage your braces.
It is very important that your oral hygiene is excellent as cleaning your teeth is much more difficult with a brace in place. Brushing your teeth after every snack and meal throughout the day will reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. In addition, take longer brushing your teeth in the morning and at night. Ask your Orthodontist which is the best type of tooth brush for cleaning braces. If you do not look after your teeth during your treatment they can become permanently stained.
Toffees.Chewy sweets, like Mars bars or starburst for example.Hard foods, like crusty bread and apples.Also think twice before opening bottles with your teeth, biting pen tops or chewing your finger nails as these can also damage your braces.
It is very important that your oral hygiene is excellent as cleaning your teeth is much more difficult with a brace in place. Brushing your teeth after every snack and meal throughout the day will reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. In addition, take longer brushing your teeth in the morning and at night. Ask your Orthodontist which is the best type of tooth brush for cleaning braces. If you do not look after your teeth during your treatment they can become permanently stained.
After your treatment is complete
Your braces will be removed and your teeth cleaned and polished to remove any remaining cement. Your treatment is not over as the teeth need to be held in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. This period is called retention and the appliance that holds the teeth are called retainers, which are either fixed or removable. Depending on the type of retainers, Impressions may to be taken in order for the retainers to be made at the dental laboratory. You will then return a week later to collect your retainers.
