Cosmetic Dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Common cosmetic dentistry services include teeth whitening, dental bonding and veneers. These procedures can enhance your smile by bringing balance and symmetry to your teeth and gums.

Tooth Whitening :

  • Tooth whitening is achieved by placing whitening gel into a tray and then placing tray onto teeth.

  • The whitening gel used is either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

    • Both can achieve the same result, the differences are explained below.

  • Once surrounding the teeth, these peroxides split apart into smaller molecules.

  • These smaller molecules are very reactive and travel between the enamel prisms, towards the deeper layers of the tooth.

  • These small reactive molecules, react with larger organic molecules within the tooth, known collectively as chromophores.

  • They breakdown these chromophores, which are then not readily available able to absorb light and produce pigment.

 Whitening gels:

  • 6% Hydrogen peroxide, 10% carbamide peroxide, 16% carbamide peroxide

  • All can achieve the same result.

  • The gel form ensures a slower release. A fast release is associated with sensitivity.

  • Carbamide Peroxide is simply a hydrogen peroxide with an extra Added molecule, which slows the release even further.

  • Slower release means works over a longer period of time, and less chance of sensitivity.

  • Because carbamide peroxide has a larger molecular weight, a larger percentage is required in the gel.

    • 6% hydrogen peroxide and 16% carbamide peroxide have the same reducing potential.

    • 16% CP just takes longer, and is therefore indicated for overnight whitening as opposed to 6% HP for 1 hour.

    • 10% CP is the weakest option and indicated for highly sensitive teeth. It can achieve the same result , just will take longer.

 Patients have the choice of:

  • Pola-Light Whitening Kit

    • This is a one-size-fits all whitening tray to use at home, in the car, watching tv, etc. 

    • These are available at reception.

  • Custom-fitting whitening trays.

    • These are custom fitting trays most typically used for overnight whitening

    • Treatment consists of taking an upper and lower dental impression which is then sent to the lab for fabrication.

    • Patients will then receive a follow-up appointment one week later to collect their trays and the dentist explains how to use, care for the trays and choose which whitening gel is best for you. 

Speak with your dentist or dental hygienist to discuss if this treatment is suitable for you.

It is advised to attend the hygienist before using whitening trays to produce a better result.

Composite Bonding:

  • Composites were designed as a bridge between acrylics and ceramics.

  • Over the past 10 years these materials have improved to provide ability for aesthetic restorations.

  • They are bonded to the teeth without or with minimal tooth preparation and can therefore provide a minimally invasive option for improving esthetics.

  • Much easier to reverse, correct, replace than ceramics.

  • Many shades, translucencies, highlighting colours are available to aim for best colour match to your natural teeth.

  • Can be used as temporary or trial restoration prior to ceramics.

  • Lifespan of restorations is less than ceramics and highly dependent on oral hygiene habits

  • Indicated for minor cases, especially indicated for younger people under the age of 30.

  • Combined treatment with orthodontics and tooth whitening can limit the amount of bonding required and may produce a beautiful result.

Ceramics:

  • Ceramics can provide the best esthetics and longest lifespan of restorations.

  • They are often better options for larger restorations than large composite restorations.

  • Much improved esthetics than older Porcelain fused to metal restorations.

  • Digital mock-ups and temporary restorations can be indicated for larger cases, to offer you the best and most predictable results.

SureSmile Aligners:

  • Suresmile Aligners are a clear orthodontic aligner. 

  • The treatment plan begins by attending your dentist for a consultation which involves a digital scan and photos.

  • No messy impressions needed.

  • One week later your dentist will show you a customized 3D-visualization of the potential clear aligner treatment outcome.

  • Following your initial appointment, plan for about 2-4 weeks after to receive your aligners. Patients will attend the practice for ongoing check-ins and support to ensure the treatment stays on track.

A woman receiving a dental exam or treatment, with a dentist using dental tools and a curing light in her mouth.

Cosmetic Dentistry

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