Welcome to the cosmetic dentistry guide

The Cosmetic Dentistry Guide is an informative website where you can learn about both cosmetic and general dentistry procedures, find a cosmetic dentist that is local to you, ask one of our experts a question and take part in our discussion forums. You will find the answers to the more frequency asked questions about cosmetic dentistry such as; how much does it cost, how long does it take, what are the step by step procedures, and what are the alternatives? The information and advice on this website should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice from your own dentist.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses any dental procedure that improves the overall aesthetics (look) of your smile. A smile improvement is often known as a "smile makeover", and due to its celebrity roots a "Hollywood smile" or even "Wedding smile". Kate Middleton was reported to have had work on her smile before the royal wedding and she had a perfectly aligned white smile on the day. A beautiful smile can have numerous effects on an individual’s self-confidence, self-esteem and personal relationships. There has been an increase in media attention on the smile, with hit TV shows such as Extreme Makeover, and Embarrassing Bodies which has fueled a public awareness about cosmetic dentistry and its accessibility. Cosmetic dentistry is no longer something that is only available to celebrities and royals, you too can have the smile of your dreams.

Smile Makeover Case Study

Below is a smile makeover case study, which was carried out by Dr Kailesh Solanki, who is the clinical director of Kissdental. This patient had a total of 17 veneers and crowns fitted in a single visit using CEREC technology. The cartoon animation below graphically illustrates the process of fitting dental veneers. You can read more about dental veneers here.

cerec
Before
after 17 cerec veneers
After

The most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures

There are numerous different cosmetic treatments available depending on the final result that is required. In the last 18 months treatments involving teeth straightening such as Invisalign clear braces the Inman Aligner, Damon Braces and lingual braces have become increasingly popular. Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the UK but other treatment options include porcelain dental veneers, dental crowns, composite white fillings, cerec restorations, gum contouring and the replacement of missing teeth with dental bridges, implants and cosmetic dentures. There has also been an increasing trend in dental practices that offer facial rejuvenation treatments in the form of a non-surgical facelift, using a combination of Botox and dermal fillers such as Restylane.

If you are considering cosmetic dentistry to enhance your smile, you should seek the advice of an experienced cosmetic dentist and it is always advisable to check their credentials. Below are a few questions that you may wish to ask a cosmetic dentist at a consultation:

  • How many years have you practiced cosmetic dentistry ?
  • How many procedures have you carried out ?
  • Can I see a portfolio of your work (before and after photos and testimonials)?
  • Do you offer any guarantees?
  • Does the price include aftercare, will there be any additional charges?

On this site, you can find a list of cosmetic dentists that are vastly experienced in carrying out cosmetic procedures.

Please note that any advice given online by dentists is only provided as a guide, since they will not have had the chance to examine your mouth and assess your oral health. You should always seek the advice of a cosmetic dentist in person at a consultation before taking any action about your oral health and smile.