Cosmetics

Cosmetic Dentistry at Stoneleigh

White Fillings

White fillings have developed enormously over the last few years. There are now many different types of material, each best suited to a particular job. The improvements in the materials mean more durable fillings, as well as a better appearance. It can be possible to make 'invisible' repairs to the teeth as well as to replace unsightly silver fillings.
It is essential that white fillings are placed properly to ensure the maximum life for the filling. This does mean the process is longer and more complex than with silver fillings.

Tooth Whitening

There are two main types of tooth whitening so called 'vital' and 'non-vital'. The difference is that vital tooth whitening is carried out on normal health teeth, partly by the patient, and non-vital whitening is done on root-filled teeth by the dentist.

Vital tooth whitening is a very popular treatment in many countries, especially the USA, and is becoming more commonplace here. Essentially the process involves making a soft plastic gumshield over the teeth to hole the whitening agent in place. The whitening can be done at home overnight, but the patient needs to see a dentist first for an assessment and for the gumshield to be made. It may be advisable to have the teeth cleaned by the hygienist first.

Treatment typically involves about three visits and the actual whitening part takes about 10-14 days. Whilst the effect of treatment does not 'wear-off', obviously teeth can become stained and discoloured again, especially if exposed to tobacco smoke, tea, coffee or red wine etc.

Bridges

Bridges are artificial teeth, which are attached to, and supported by the remaining natural dentition. The bridge can be made by preparing the adjoining teeth to allow a cap to fit over them and the artificial tooth (pontic) to be joined to these caps. Alternatively, a pontic can be made with a metal wing, which fits very closely to the inside of the joining teeth. This involves less preparation of the teeth, but is only suitable for certain circumstances.

Bridges can simulate natural teeth very closely, giving a better appearance than dentures. They also have the big advantage of being permanently fixed and not having to be removed. Bridgework is a form of treatment that should last a long time with appropriate care. This means that the teeth need to be carefully assessed first.

Implants

Implants are titanium cylinders placed into the jaws to support replacement teeth. This can mean that the adjacent teeth do not have to be prepared, or a tooth can be replaced where otherwise it may not be possible.