Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentist

Dental Veneers and Crowns can instantly improve your smile

Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental treatments that focus on improving the aesthetics (appearance) of a patient’s teeth, gums or bite. This may involve adjusting the colour, position, shape, size or overall alignment of teeth in order to enhance the appearance of a smile. Our team are experienced in all forms of cosmetic dentistry including: teeth whitening, dental implants, porcelain veneers, ceramic crowns and white fillings. Basically, cosmetic dentistry aims to correct any dental imperfections that may be causing you embarrassment or stopping you from proudly sharing your smile.

Ceramic crowns

On a healthy tooth, the crown is the part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. A ceramic crown is a custom-made crown that is fitted over the existing natural tooth to restore the structural integrity or improve the appearance of a tooth. Ceramic crowns can not only make a tooth more aesthetically pleasing but also increase a tooth's durability, strength and stability. There are many reasons that a tooth may require a crown. Sometimes a crown is required if a tooth is no longer structurally sound as a result of injury, decay, a prior root canal or general wear and tear. Often, however, people choose to have crowns fitted for cosmetic reasons if their natural crown is broken, chipped, misshapen or discoloured. Each ceramic crown is customised to fit the shape of each individual's mouth. The colour of the ceramic crown can be matched to existing teeth to ensure the patient sports a consistently coloured smile.

The implementation of a ceramic crown generally takes place over two dental appointments. During the first appointment the existing natural tooth is prepared. Impressions are taken of the tooth and then a temporary crown is placed on top. During the second appointment the temporary crown is removed and the new custom-made ceramic crown is fitted and securely cemented into place, providing a long-term, natural-looking dental solution.

Porcelain veneers

Veneers are thin tooth-coloured porcelain facings that can be securely bonded to the front surface of one or more teeth and are made to match the colour of existing teeth. Veneers are incredibly thin, generally between 0.3mm and 0.5mm in thickness and are generally used as an alternative to crowns as they require less of the natural tooth to be removed. Despite their thinness, veneers are extremely strong and durable, making them an increasingly popular cosmetic dental treatment. Veneers are less invasive than dental crowns and are considered a beneficial cosmetic dental procedure for patients with gaps between teeth; broken or chipped teeth; and crowded, crooked, misshaped or misaligned teeth. Some patients even opt for veneers to correct stained or discoloured teeth as veneers can be applied to all visible teeth to whiten the overall colour of your smile. Porcelain veneers are often more cost effective than ceramic crowns.

White fillings

Fillings are generally used to patch up holes left by cavities. Cavities are a result of a build up of plaque, resulting in extensive tooth decay. Whenever you eat or drink, bacteria, acid and saliva combine to form plaque, a soft, sticky film that clings to your teeth. If plaque is allowed to build up on the surface of teeth, it eventually eats away at the enamel and creates holes referred to as cavities. If left untreated, cavities can cause sensitive toothaches, particularly when eating and drinking. If they are large enough, you may be able to see them with a mirror or feel them when you move your tongue around inside your mouth. The cavities may also cause you to develop unusually bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. If you suspect you have a cavity you should book an appointment with your dentist immediately to prevent infection. If your dentist locates a cavity in your mouth, they will begin by thoroughly cleaning and flushing the area to prevent infection. If the area around the cavity is infected, you may be required to undertake a course of antibiotics to heal the site before having a filling.

In the past, dentists filled holes left by cavities with either gold or amalgam fillings. While these fillings are long-lasting, they contrast sharply with the natural colour of teeth, which is why most people now opt for white fillings. White fillings are tooth-coloured composite resin fillings that are used to fill holes left by cavities. This white resin bonds to the surrounding material of the affected tooth and restores its natural shape and can be used on both front and back teeth. The resin used for white fillings is available in a range of shades so it can be matched to the colour of your existing teeth, making the filling completely unnoticeable. Some people who have previous amalgam fillings choose to have them replaced with white fillings to make their smile more aesthetically pleasing. Whether you need to fill a cavity or replace an amalgam filling, white fillings are the best way to keep your mouth bright, natural and healthy.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a common dental procedure that lightens and brightens the colour of teeth and is safest if it is performed by a certified dentist. Most people opt for these procedures if their teeth are discoloured. This may be yellow, brown or blue-grey staining or chalky-white or brown spots, patches or lines on the surface of the teeth. There are many factors that can cause tooth discolouration including consuming certain foods and drinks, excess tobacco use, ongoing use of certain medication, as well as other environmental factors. It is important to consult with your dentist prior to whitening your teeth in order to establish the exact cause, or causes, of the discolouration. This way your dentist can recommend the best course of action. Click here if want more information about our range of teeth whitening services.

Dental implants

Dental implants serve to replace missing teeth that may have been lost to decay or injury, or have simply not grown. Dental implants are cylindrical devices made of medical grade titanium that are firmly anchored into the jaw in place of a missing tooth. These implants function as artificial roots that can biologically bond to the bone of your jaw. They can then be attached to individual ceramic crowns, bridges or full dentures to complete your bite. Our clinic is staffed and equipped to surgically replace missing teeth with natural-looking, comfortable and functional replacements. Click here if you want more information about our high-quality dental implant procedures.

Worried about the costs of cosmetic dentistry?

It's no secret that cosmetic dental procedures can be pretty pricey, but at Engadine Dental we strive to deliver quality cosmetic dentistry at affordable prices. Before commencing any cosmetic dental procedures we encourage all of our patients to set up a consultation with one of our dentists. This way we can discuss various treatment plans and costs and provide you with a comprehensive quote upfront. From here you can make an informed decision about the treatment plan you will undertake and rest easy knowing that you won't be surprised with a large bill at the end.

Get the smile you've always wanted!

We stay informed about the latest advancements in cosmetic dental treatments and procedures to ensure our patient's leave with a beautiful smile. We pride ourselves on being personable and dedicated to every one of our patient's and their unique dental needs. If cosmetic issues have stopped you smiling, contact Engadine Dental today either by phone, or dropping into our clinic. Whether you need whitening, fillings, veneers, crowns or implants you can be assured that we will get you smiling again.