The term ‘smile makeover’ has appeared increasingly in the press over recent years. The well-established celebrity trend of having the perfect set of pearly whites to flash at the cameras still seems prevalent. But what does that mean for us mere mortals? With those not necessarily in the limelight also looking for that perfect smile, and the cosmetic dentistry industry maintaining its multibillion-pound status, the smile makeover looks set to stay. So, what exactly is a smile makeover? And what does it entail?

Smile Makeover

Put simply, a smile makeover is when you improve your smile by having one or several cosmetic dentistry treatments to transform it. Treatments used often include dental crowns, also known as caps, dental veneers, teeth whitening, and composite bonding. If you decide to have a smile makeover here at The Edge Dental, we will talk to you and customise your makeover according to your preferences.

We will take into consideration your teeth, the shape, colour, size, and general appearance but we will also look at things such as your gum tissue and lips, your face shape, hair colour, and skin tone. Then, with your thoughts and opinions as well as our own, we will devise a treatment plan you are happy with, making sure all costs involved and treatment times are explained fully.

Crowns

Crowns, or caps as they are also known, can be used if you have broken teeth or teeth that are weak from decay or large fillings. They can also improve the appearance of a tooth that may have a discoloured filling. We use only the highest quality materials and can advise you as to what material would be best for your smile makeover. Crowns are hard wearing and if well cared for, will last for many years.

Veneers

Veneers are great for transforming teeth. They are placed on the front of your teeth and can cover a multitude of sins! The very thin porcelain shells can cover tooth discolouration, chips and can even close gaps between the teeth, bringing the teeth in line.
The veneers are colour-matched with the rest of your teeth and will sit naturally within the mouth. You may even like to have the rest of your teeth whitened first and then the veneer fitted to match the new whiter shade. This can give a completely transformational look to a smile.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is often thought of as the most dramatic way to transform your teeth at a relatively low cost. We use Enlighten teeth whitening at our dental practice. It is a world-renowned product and is the only one that guarantees a Vita shade B1 for every patient and has a 98%success rate.
The Enlighten teeth whitening system is safe and meets all relevant governing bodies’ requirements. You will need to have a consultation initially with the dentist to ensure it is suitable for you. Then, impressions can be taken of your teeth. These will be sent off to the Enlighten lab where custom-made trays are created. These trays are used at home with the special whitening gel and this is used alongside in-chair whitening for approximately one hour.

It is also possible to do home whitening only with Enlighten. The trays are worn at your leisure at home and results can be seen within 7 to 14 days with regular use as advised.

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding, also sometimes known as tooth bonding or dental bonding is a great solution for minor damage to teeth, gaps in teeth, or uneven teeth. A composite resin is colour matched to your surrounding teeth and then fixed to the tooth and shaped. A UV light is then applied to the area to harden the resin and fix it in place.
The process of composite bonding is usually carried out in one dental appointment. There is not much preparation required as the tooth’s surface just needs to be roughened to help the resin to bond. However, no part of the tooth must be removed, which can sometimes be the case with dental veneers or crowns when fitting them.

If you are interested in finding out more about smile makeovers, further general information can be found at the Consumer Guide to Dentistry. Our talented team have all undergone advanced training in cosmetic dentistry. This makes us well placed in making your dream smile become a reality.
We are always on hand to answer any questions you have about your smile and what can be done to enhance it. Give our friendly team a call on 01625 599001 or email info@theedgedental.co.uk