Smile Enhancements

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a way of restoring your smile when a tooth is missing.

We often recommend a bridge for patients who have lost a tooth, leaving a space with teeth on either side. Our experienced team place dental crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap and then connect a false tooth to the crowns to bridge this gap.

A dental bridge can:

• close the gap created by a missing tooth.
• improve your biting function so you can enjoy the foods you love.
• prevent neighbouring teeth from moving.
• produce a natural-looking result.
• give you the confidence that comes with a great-looking smile.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry refers to the range of dental treatments that restore or improve the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, bite, or smile. Many dental treatments fall into this category, including:

• dental veneers
• teeth whitening
• facial injectable
• tooth-coloured fillings
• Invisalign / ClearCorrect

When can cosmetic dentistry help?

These treatments can assist any person wanting to improve the appearance of their teeth and gums and also their dental hygiene. They can help with:

• discoloured or stained teeth
• chipped or misshapen teeth
• crooked teeth
• teeth with unsightly gaps between them
• improving your whole smile

What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?

While the main benefit of cosmetic dentistry is the creation or restoration of an aesthetically pleasing smile, it is functional too. Some procedures help strengthen teeth and improve bite. Protecting hairline cracks or uneven edges of a tooth also prevents further damage.

Additionally, there are other social and health benefits associated with cosmetic dentistry, including:

• an improved psychological outlook and higher self-esteem
• the reversal of dental problems that were previously a source of embarrassment
• better oral health because straight teeth are easier to clean and decay is easier to spot on white teeth
• avoiding the need for more costly dental treatments in the future
• Protection against decay

Considerations

Cosmetic dentistry may enhance your appearance and boost your self-esteem. However, not all cosmetic dental treatments are appropriate for everyone. More importantly, the state of a person’s oral health determines their suitability for cosmetic dentistry. Everyone’s situation is unique and the initial appointment with our dentist will confirm your suitability.

What is a dental crown?

A full coverage dental crown is one way of restoring a badly damaged tooth by protecting the entire structure of the tooth.

Our dental crowns look and feel like natural teeth. They are durable and strong and designed to last you for many years.

Why would I need a dental crown?

Sometimes a tooth can be damaged to the extent that its strength is compromised, such as when there is a large filling in the tooth. This can cause deflection and stresses on the remaining tooth structure as the filling expands and contracts due to biting forces.

If you have had a root canal treatment, this may lead to drying of the tooth because the nerve is removed. This causes the tooth to lose strength and become more brittle.

Another reason that your dentist may recommend a crown is when a tooth is fractured or cracked and you need a crown to hold it together and prevent further tooth loss.

A crown may also be your best option if you are unable to achieve the look you desire with other methods.

Types of dental crowns

Dental crowns can be made of ceramic/porcelain, resin, gold, base metal alloys, and other materials. In some cases, a temporary crown is needed while waiting for the permanent crown. Computer-generated crowns are now also possible using CEREC technology, allowing you to have your crown in one visit.

We are proud of our dentists who are ethical and honest. You can rely on us to provide you with clear explanations about your options so that you can make informed decisions that are right for you and your oral health.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a long-term solution for tooth or teeth replacement. They are made of biocompatible titanium and are inserted surgically so that it fuses with the jawbone. This process is called “osseointegration”. Like the roots of natural teeth, they provide a permanent anchor for replacement teeth, including crowns and bridges.

When are dental implants used?

Dental implants may be an ideal solution for people who have lost one or more teeth due to tooth decay or injury. Candidates for implants should be in good general and oral health and have adequate bone in the jaw to support the implant.

What are the benefits?

Implants provide a number of important cosmetic and functional benefits:

• They are a permanent solution, providing teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
• They do not slip, so there is no discomfort or embarrassment.
• You can clean implants along with natural teeth.
• Implants are strong enough to provide a reliable foundation for chewing.
• They prevent bone loss and maintain the jawbone’s shape and density. This ensures the integrity of the facial structure and facial appearance.
• Implants do not compromise the health of surrounding teeth, unlike traditional options such as bridges.

Considerations

Implants may not be for everyone. If you have brittle, damaged jaw bones or bone loss and some general health issues, you may find that they are not the best solution for you.

We are proud of our dentists who are ethical and honest. You can rely on us to provide you with clear explanations about your options so that you can make informed decisions that are right for you and your oral health.

What is in-chair teeth whitening?

In-chair teeth whitening is a non-invasive dental treatment that lifts stains from the pores of teeth and lightens the colour of natural tooth enamel, leading to the appearance of whiter, brighter teeth.

In-chair teeth whitening is the quickest dental solution for whitening teeth and removing or reducing stains and discolouration. It typically involves the application of whitening product directly onto the teeth and the use of heat, a special light or laser to activate and/or accelerate the whitening agent.

With in-chair teeth whitening, results are typically achieved within a 60-minute dental appointment.

When is in-chair teeth whitening used?

In-chair teeth whitening is an ideal solution for customers wanting instant results. It is an appropriate treatment for those with wear to the outer tooth layer (enamel) or extrinsic stains on the teeth of a yellow, brown appearance, typically caused by smoking or the consumption of coffee, wine, and cola and some foods.

What are the benefits of in-chair teeth whitening?

There are several advantages associated with in-chair teeth whitening:

• Dentists typically use whitening products that contain stronger concentrations of hydrogen peroxide compared with off-the-shelf or take-home products. This ensures results within one 60-minute dental treatment.
• Dentists apply the whitening agent directly to the teeth so that the use of mouth trays, such as those provided in take-home and off-the-shelf whitening kits, is unnecessary.
• Dentists supervise the treatment and can control the amount of whitening that occurs.
• Dentists typically use a rubber shield to protect the gums from the whitening product.
• Dentists can better match the types of stains with the best treatments, leading to better results.

Considerations

Teeth whitening will only work on natural teeth and extrinsic stains. It is also temporary and the degree of whiteness will vary from individual to individual depending on the condition of the teeth and the type of whitening system used. Teeth whitening is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

At Totally Smiles, we take a “no surprises” approach, with clear explanations about your options to help you make informed decisions on how to achieve the dental health and smile you want.

What are Invisalign and ClearCorrect?

Gone are the days when metal braces were the only choice to straighten teeth. Clear aligners have gained popularity, thanks to innovations like Invisalign and ClearCorrect. These solutions offer straight teeth without brackets and the wires, using a series of custom-made clear aligners that are also removable.

How do aligners work?

Aligners, like traditional braces, gradually shift teeth until they are in the ideal position. Our experienced dentists, using state-of-the-art equipment and technology, map out the entire alignment process and create a sequence of slightly different trays corresponding to the slight adjustments your teeth will make. These trays are computer-generated based on images and models of your own teeth so you can be assured that these will have a perfect fit for you and only you. Each aligner then needs to be worn for a specific period of time before moving on to the next set.

Why choose aligners?

• Aligners are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option.
• Unlike traditional braces, aligners have no rough edges or wires, making them more comfortable to wear.
• You can remove them to eat or clean your teeth, which makes it easier to maintain good oral health.
• Appointments are faster and more comfortable.

Are they suitable for me?

Aligners may be the ideal solution for correcting mild to moderately crowded or incorrectly spaced teeth. For serious underbites or overbites, traditional braces may be required.

Due to their tight fit, aligners are usually recommended for teenagers and adults and not children.

Our trustworthy team are always on hand to give you clear explanations about your options so that you can make informed decisions that are right for you and your oral health.

What is mouth rehabilitation?

Mouth rehabilitation, restoration, or reconstruction all refer to the process of rebuilding all of the teeth in both upper and lower jaws. Such a need may arise due to:

• Lost teeth resulting from decay, trauma, or injury
• Severely worn down teeth as a result of acid erosion or teeth grinding
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD)

How does it work?

Our experienced dentists will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw to determine what needs to be fixed and the treatment options to correct them. This involves taking photographs and x-rays of your mouth, impressions of your teeth, and moulds of your teeth and bite.

We will also ask you about your overall health history including past dental issues, any medications you are taking, and any other illnesses you may have. All these may have an impact on your treatment plan so it is important to disclose them.

We will then develop a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that is fully customised for you. This may include several of these procedures:

• Veneers, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, implants
• Fillings
• Root canal therapy
• Orthodontics (braces, aligners, retainers)
• Repositioning of the jaw
• Contouring of gum tissue
• Bone or soft tissue grafting

Procedures required will depend on each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. We at Totally Smiles take a “no surprises” approach and will always provide you with clear explanations about your rehabilitation plan, always ready to answer any questions you may have at any stage to assure you that you are in safe hands.

What is take-home teeth whitening?

Take-home teeth whitening is a non-invasive dental treatment that lifts stains from the pores of teeth and lightens the colour of natural tooth enamel, leading to the appearance of whiter, brighter teeth.

Take-home teeth whitening involves the creation of a customised mouth tray to which whitening product is added. The mouth tray is taken home with the whitening product and worn on the teeth at specific intervals over a period of up to 14 days.

When is take-home teeth whitening used?

Take-home teeth whitening is a cost-effective solution for people wanting whiter, brighter teeth. It can assist people with wear to the outer tooth layer (enamel) or extrinsic stains on the teeth of a yellow, brown appearance, typically caused by smoking or the consumption of coffee, wine, and cola and some foods.

What are the benefits of take-home teeth whitening?

There are several advantages associated with take-home teeth whitening:

• Custom-fitted mouth trays (made from impressions taken by the dentist) ensure maximum contact between the whitening product, which is applied to the mouth tray, and the teeth.
• Custom-fitted mouth trays minimise contact of the whitening gel with the gum tissue.
• The whitening product is milder than products used within dental surgeries, leading to less tooth sensitivity and control over the shade of white that is achieved.
• Take-home teeth whitening is more affordable than in-chair teeth whitening performed within dental surgeries.

Considerations

Positive results from take-home teeth whitening rely on compliance with the at-home portion of the treatment protocol.

Teeth whitening will only work on natural teeth and extrinsic stains. It is also temporary and the degree of whiteness will vary from individual to individual depending on the condition of the teeth and the type of whitening system used. Teeth whitening is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

At Totally Smiles, we take a “no surprises” approach, with clear explanations about your options to help you make informed decisions on how to achieve the dental health and smile you want. Your initial appointment with our professional team will confirm your suitability for take-home teeth whitening.

What are tooth coloured fillings?

Composite resins, or tooth-coloured fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural

What are the benefits of tooth coloured fillings?

There are several advantages associated with take-home teeth whitening:

• Improved Confidence: Tooth-coloured fillings restore the teeth to a beautiful, cavity free appearance. Patients will be able to smile with confidence, knowing their teeth look pristine and metal-free.
• Replace Old Metal Fillings: Old metal fillings can be replaced with tooth-coloured fillings to both restore the appearance and the strength of previously treated teeth.
• Aesthetically Pleasing: Tooth-coloured fillings are more aesthetically pleasing than metal fillings. Tooth-coloured fillings blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth, so no one will notice the patient has had dental treatment!
• No Tooth Discoloration: Overtime, silver amalgam metal fillings are known to change the colour of the teeth to a greyish tint. Tooth-coloured fillings make a better option for cavity treatment, as they will not discolour the teeth.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers (also known as porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin shells made from either porcelain or a resin composite. They are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve the appearance of tooth shape, colour, size, and alignment.

When are dental veneers used?

Dental veneers can assist in creating a straight, symmetrical, white smile and are an ideal solution for people wanting to improve the appearance of:

• teeth that are discoloured due to root canal treatment, stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride, or the presence of large resin fillings
• worn down teeth
• chipped or broken teeth
• misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth
• teeth with unsightly gaps between them

What are the benefits of dental veneers?

Dental veneers offer cosmetic benefits to people wanting to improve the appearance of their teeth. They

• offer dynamic colour variation and translucency that mimics the appearance of tooth enamel to create a natural-looking smile.
• are made of biocompatible material that gum tissue usually tolerates well.
• require minimal tooth shaping during the fitting procedure; approximately half a millimetre of enamel from the front of the tooth is removed.
• can be fitted during a painless procedure and often without anaesthetic.
• are stain-resistant.
• do not require a separate or special cleaning routine.
• can last up to 15 years, depending on the type of veneer selected and how well the veneers are maintained.
• are often less expensive than other dental solutions for improving the appearance of teeth, such as dental crowns and orthodontic braces.

Considerations

Veneers are not a good choice for individuals who clench and grind their teeth; have unhealthy, weakened teeth; or have an inadequate amount of existing enamel on the tooth surface.

We are proud of our dentists who are ethical and honest. You can rely on us to provide you with clear explanations about your options so that you can make informed decisions that are right for you and your oral health.