Think of the last time you posed for a picture. Did you flash your pearly whites or did you hide your teeth? Today, many people benefit from Cosmetic Dentistry. A wide range of techniques are available that can enhance almost any smile.

Gone are the days when you had to settle for chipped, stained and crooked teeth. A revolution in newer technology and materials ensure that cosmetically enhanced teeth now look more natural and last longer than they did in the past. Skillfully blending science and art, your dentist can “sculpt” a more attractive smile for you.

A smile is a powerful way for you to communicate. A new smile will help you make a great impression –both personally and professionally.

Take this simple test.

If your answer to any of the following questions is “yes”, then you need to get a cosmetic evaluation done by your dentist.

Do you lack confidence when smiling?
Do you wish you had a smile as pretty as the models?
Do you wish your teeth were whiter?
Do you have any stained or discoloured teeth or fillings?
Are any of your teeth crowded, overlapping or crooked ?
Are any of your teeth missing or do you have gaps between any of your teeth?
Do any of your teeth have uneven shapes due to chips, fractures or rough edges?
Do your teeth seem out of proportion because they are uneven in length?
Are you dissatisfied with the way your gums look?
Are your gums red, swollen, receding or bleeding?
Do you wish you had a smile as pretty as the models?

COSMETIC OPTIONS
A variety of options are currently available to suit most conditions. Some of the commonly used cosmetic options available include :

BLEACHING : As the name implies, teeth bleaching – or teeth whitening, as it is often called –is a process of lightening the colour of teeth. It is used to erase stains that come from coffee, tea, red wine, cigarette smoke and chewing tobacco. Bleaching will also lighten teeth that have darkened because of age or are naturally yellow or dark.

The effects generally last for many years depending on personal habits. The process is simple, effective and produces few side effects.

A word of caution : Avoid use of readymade, over –the –counter bleaching systems available.

Consult your Dentist for more information

BONDING : Over time, little things can conspire to damage your smile –a chip, a crack, discoloration, noticeable fillings in your front teeth, small gaps between teeth, teeth that are uneven or fractured teeth. Fortunately, there is a simple, pain-free, long –lasting and cost –effective dental procedure that can restore the beauty of your smile.

Bonding is a direct, chairside procedure involving tooth coloured composite material.

Indications for Bonding :
» Close small gaps between front teeth.
» Repair chips and cracks.
» Conceal discoloration.
» Protect exposed roots caused by gum recession.
» Restore decaying teeth (the tooth- coloured bonding material is an excellent and     undetectable filling).
» Seal and protect children's teeth from cavities.

So, if there are any minor imperfections in your smile, ask your Dentist about tooth bonding. Most procedures can be completed in a single sitting.

CROWNS : Crown, or “caps” , are coverings that fit over your teeth and restore each tooth to its normal shape and size, while both strengthening and improving its appearance. A crown could be made of natural looking porecelain/ ceramic, metals, acrylic or composite resins or a combination of any of these.

Indications for placing crowns :
» To restore fractured teeth.
» To protect weak teeth from fracturing.
» To support a large filling when there isn't enough tooth remaining.
» To conceal badly shaped or discoloured teeth.
» To strengthen teeth following a root canal (teeth tend to become brittle and are     more prone to fracture).
» To disguise extensive damage caused by decay.
» To attach a bridge.
» To cover a dental implant.

VENEERS : Veneers are wafer –thin shells of porcelain which are bonded onto the front side of teeth and can be an excellent cosmetic solution for crooked, chipped, discoloured or worn teeth. And what they enhance, is your smile.

Indications for placing Veneers :
» Repair damaged teeth.
» Correct gaps.
» Conceal discoloration.
» Change the shape and size of your tooth.

They are highly resistant to permanent staining from coffee, tea, red wine, cigarette smoke, and even chewing tobacco. What' s more, with the regular care and maintenance of a normal tooth, porcelain veneers can last for well over a decade.

Plus, they look completely natural.

A new Smile - Your key to Success
Cosmetic Dentistry is an “art form” devoted to the enhancement of smiles. Your dentist evaluates the health and appearance of your teeth, recommending the best type of treatment for you, and thus crafting a more beautiful smile. It all begins with a smile. A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.

FAQ
What is a composite resin (white filling)?
A composite resin is a tooth – coloured plastic mixture filled with glass (silicon dioxide). Composites are not only used to restore decayed areas, but are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the colour of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.

How is a composite placed ?
Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. The dentist then shapes the composite to fit the tooth and finally polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

How long does it take to place a composite ?
It takes the Dentist about 10-20 minutes longer to place a composite than a silver filling. Placement time depends on the size and location of the cavity – the larger the size, the longer it will take.

What are the advantages of composites ?
Aesthetics are the main advantage, since Dentists can blend shades to create a colour nearly identical to that of the actual tooth. Besides, composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.