Cosmetic dentistry

Signs you might need it

• Teeth that have become darker or stained, from tea, coffee, tobacco or simply time.
• A chipped edge, or front teeth that are uneven in length.
• A small gap between the front teeth.
• An old front filling that has discoloured.

What happens, step by step

1. Examination before anything else

   The teeth and gums need to be healthy before any of this. Decay or gum inflammation is treated beforehand, and the doctor talks through what you would like to change and what each option can and cannot do.

2. Whitening

   A bleaching gel is applied to the teeth, in the clinic or in custom trays at home, or both. It lightens natural tooth, but not fillings, crowns or veneers, which may then need replacing to match.

3. Bonding

   Tooth-coloured composite is shaped onto the tooth to repair a chip, close a small gap or even an edge, usually without removing any tooth. Often done in one appointment.

4. Veneers

   A thin shell of porcelain or composite covers the front of a tooth. Porcelain veneers usually need a little enamel removed and are made in a laboratory, so they take more than one appointment.

How it feels afterwards

After whitening, teeth may be sensitive for a day or two, and it helps to avoid strongly coloured food and drink for a short while. How much a tooth lightens varies from person to person and cannot be promised in advance; the shade also drifts back over time.

Bonding can stain or chip and may need polishing or repair from time to time. Veneers and bonded edges should not be used to bite into very hard things.

What decides the cost

A fee is only worked out once the doctor has examined you. It depends on:

• Which option, and how many teeth.
• The material: composite is done in the chair; porcelain involves a laboratory.
• Whether any treatment is needed beforehand, such as a filling or gum care.
• The cost is told to you in writing before anything is done.