The demand for an aesthetically accepted and attractive smile, has been steadily raised over the last years. Considering the influence of media and fluctuating fashion, the recent increase in aesthetic dental interventions should not be a surprise.
Advancement in dental technology introduced new materials which became extremely popular in the field of aesthetic dentistry. Adhesion and resin composites have been significantly improved and they have managed to shift the profession to a less invasive approach. Avoiding irrecoverable tooth loss, minimal invasion and respect to nature and biology, is our golden standard at; Burgate Dental Practice & Implant Centre.
Size, shape, colour and position of the teeth are common issues that lead patients seek help from their dentists. In enhancing the appearance of front teeth, there is a range of options available according to the nature of the patient’s issue, desire and expectations.
Common teeth related, aesthetic concerns are; 1. Discolouration, 2. Size, shape, 3. Position.
Discolouration; treatment of discolouration is usually by common bleaching, however direct composite resins often used to mask intrinsic discolourations of various severity. Teeth Whitening (bleaching); in comparison to other restorative approaches is the most conservative way to alter teeth shade. Accurate diagnosis of the aetiology is essential for a successful treatment outcome. When successfully administered, is one of the safest, least invasive and inexpensive aesthetic procedures currently available.
Size, shape; issues in size and shape can be treated with simple enameloplasty, direct or indirect composite resins and ceramic veneers.
Enameloplasty; addresses minor imperfections in teeth shape. May provide a definitive aesthetic treatment or followed by restorative work with composite resins or ceramics. It involves minor trimming, adjusting and polishing of the enamel with rubber cups or various discs.
Direct composite resins; considered to be the most conservative and least invasive treatment modalities when altering tooth shape or treating existing pathology. Although were introduced in the late 70s they became very popular recently, when advancement in technology enabled the material, in the hands of experienced and well-informed clinicians, to produce life-like restorations of exceptional quality and great long term prognosis.
Indirect composite resins; are lab fabricated restorations.
Ceramic veneers; lab made prosthesis of superior quality and aesthetics in the hands of experienced clinicians and skilled technicians.
Full coverage crowns; placement of full coverage crowns in the aesthetic zone should be limited to; already crowned teeth (replacement), heavily restored teeth with insufficient amount of enamel and exposed dentine, and implant retained restorations. A full coverage crown is an invasive option and should be avoided for the management of unaesthetic or moderately restored anterior maxillary teeth.
Position; usually treated with orthodontics (short term or comprehensive), direct or indirect composite restorations and ceramics.
Aesthetic dentistry is elective, communication is essential prior to treatment, at Burgate Dental Practice & Implant Centre we follow a methodological approach; we discuss, examine, assess, diagnose and treatment plan based on our patients' unique needs and options available. To find out more please visit our website at: www.canterbury-dentist.co.uk or call us at: 01227 462857.