Over the last twenty years a change has occurred in the way we view the dentist. The dentist is no longer just a medical professional there to repair damage to teeth and keep them healthy, but they are now additionally seen as cosmetic technicians. They are able, using a variety of new procedures, to drastically improve the appearance of even the most damaged and unhealthy looking teeth.

The change really began with the advent of modern teeth whitening. People began to realise that having a healthy and beautiful looking smile could be a real advantage and work wonders for the self-confidence. As treatments like teeth whitening became more affordable more people began to see the benefits on offer from their dentist. Other cosmetic treatments such as dental bonding, orthodontic straightening and teeth contouring all became very popular as the full potential of cosmetic dentistry was gradually revealed to the public.

In recent years, a more extensive and comprehensive cosmetic dentistry treatment called a smile makeover has grown in popularity as it offers a complete dental transformation utilising a number of treatments suitable for your teeth. The potential of a smile makeover has been seen on many of the wave of TV makeover shows where even the most unhealthy looking teeth can be transformed.

Harlow dentists offer a wide variety of cosmetic dental treatments ranging from the most simple to the most extensive and with treatments to suit every budget it is possible for everyone to benefit from cosmetic dentistry. Call 01245 268 494 for a free consultation at Advance Dental Clinic in Chelmsford

Of all the cosmetic dentistry procedures, the most dramatic and by far the most popular with patients is teeth whitening. Although mankind has been trying to whiten teeth for centuries using a variety of techniques and substances, it is only relatively recently that modern technology has provided a more successful method.

Teeth whitening hit the headlines in the late 1980s when it was mostly the preserve of the rich and famous but as it has become more available it has also become more affordable. Teeth whitening is now offered by nearly all dentists across the UK with a variety of different products on the market promising results. Different dentists use different products but some of the most popular are Enlighten and Zoom whitening.

Whitening treatments can involve anything from half and hour one off appointments to two week intensive whitening using specially prepared take-home trays with lower concentration gels for nigh time use. Whichever treatment you choose it is important that it is provided by a trained Basildon dentist, as some home-use kits can contain high strength hydrogen peroxide which is capable of burning the soft tissue in the mouth. Dentists will be able to use all the necessary protective gear to ensure that your mouth is perfectly safe during the treatment.

The cost of whitening depends on which treatment you opt for and how long it lasts but there is a treatment available for all budgets and results are achievable with only limited whitening having been carried out. The process is relatively painless with only some mild sensitivity being experienced by some patients. Call 01245 268 494 for a free consultation at Advance Dental Clinic in Chelmsford

Even the straightest and most well proportioned teeth can look unhealthy if they are discoloured. Our teeth naturally lose their natural colour over time. Just as our hair loses its natural colour and turns grey, our teeth lose their white colour as the enamel is gradually stained.

Discolouration affects some people more than others because of natural factors but it can also be influenced by lifestyle choices that we make. For example, the use of any kind of tobacco product can adversely affect the colour of teeth. Coffee and red wine drinkers are also particularly susceptible to the premature discolouration.

Regular and correct brushing and flossing can help prevent discoloration but if the enamel itself has become discoloured no amount of cleaning will restore the whiteness of the teeth. It is then only teeth whitening procedures that can restore the natural whiteness of the teeth.

Teeth whitening is the most common and affordable of all the cosmetic dentistry procedures and will be offered by most dentists. Most initial whitening will take place in the surgery but follow up treatments may be carried out at home with specially prepared whitening trays. There are whitening treatments available on the internet which promise teeth whitening at home, but dentists always recommend consulting them before using any whitening equipment. This is because the whitening ingredient, usually hydrogen peroxide, can be damaging to soft tissue if applied incorrectly or in high concentrations. Dentists will offer higher strength concentrations in surgery and safer, more diluted treatments for home use.

Teeth whitening affects different people at different speeds with some patients having visibly whiter teeth after only one treatment. For other patients it may take several applications before any discernable difference can be seen. If you think you could benefit from teeth whitening, make an appointment to see a Maldon dentist and they will be able to offer advice about the latest treatments available to you.