What does the process involve?

Gum contouring, also known as reshaping, is carried out to enhance the aesthetic of the smile. Tiny pieces of gum tissue are removed during contouring, making more of the tooth structure visible when you smile. The procedure is carried out using either a scalpel or laser technology. The gums are numbed first to prevent pain and then your dentist will carefully re-shape the gums and remove gum tissue to generate a more even, aesthetically pleasing smile.

Traditionally, a scalpel was used to remove gum tissue, but laser treatment is becoming increasingly commonplace in modern dentistry. Lasers are preferable because they reduce healing time, decrease the risk of infection and increase accuracy. There is also less risk of damage to the surrounding tissue and many patients feel more at ease with the prospect of having laser treatment, rather than treatment involving a scalpel.

What are the advantages of gum contouring?

Gum contouring may sound rather scary, but it is actually very safe and simple and it can have a massive impact on a smile’s appearance and the patient’s confidence. Gum contouring makes more of the teeth visible, which creates a more even and balanced smile. If you would like to learn more about gum contouring in South East London, contact your dentist.

What is different about Empress veneers?

Empress veneers are different to traditional veneers because they last a lot longer. This is because they contain a larger amount of Lucite, a substance which makes them extremely strong and durable. Typically, Empress veneers are between 3 and 6 times stronger than other types of veneer.

Why would I consider having veneers?

Very few people have perfect teeth and if you often find yourself looking through magazines and wishing you had a perfect dazzling smile similar to the Hollywood A-listers, veneers may be the solution. Veneers are a very effective treatment, which can create a flawless result and can transform even the most unsightly teeth. Veneers can be used to address problems such as:

• staining and discolouration

• poorly aligned teeth

• gaps between the teeth

• chipped and worn teeth

• cracked teeth

What does it involve?

In order to make room for veneers, the teeth must first be prepared by your London SE1 dentist, which involves tiny pieces of the tooth surface being removed. The preparation stage is carried out under local anaesthetic to prevent pain and discomfort. Once the teeth have been prepared, impressions of the teeth will be taken and used as a template to fabricate the new veneers. The custom-made veneers will then be returned to the dentist and they can be fitted and fixed into position.

Tooth contouring is beneficial for people who are worried about flaws in their teeth and if you find yourself constantly focusing on a chip or an uneven edge, for example, this treatment may be an ideal solution.

What are the benefits of tooth contouring?

Tooth contouring is a straight-forward, safe and effective treatment, which can be used to address small flaws in the smile. Tooth contouring is effective for patients who have small chips, uneven tooth surfaces, pits in the tooth surfaces and worn teeth. The procedure is relatively simple, but it can make a massive difference to a patient’s smile, as well as their confidence and self-esteem. In addition to aesthetic benefits, tooth contouring can also have positive implications for oral health, as the teeth are often easier to clean once they have been smoothed and pits have been filled in.

What does the procedure involve?

Tooth contouring involves removing surface enamel and shaping the teeth to create a more even, attractive smile. Your dentist will smooth out rough and worn edges, fill in chips and re-shape uneven teeth to produce a better aesthetic. The length of the procedure depends on the amount of work being done, but in most cases, treatment is complete within the hour. Dentists usually take a ‘before’ photograph so you can point out the flaws you want to address and see the difference in the ‘after’ shot. If you want to find out more about tooth contouring in South East London, ask your dentist.

What are the advantages of white fillings?

The major selling-point of the white filling in London SE1 is the aesthetic appeal. White fillings cannot be seen when you smile because the filling is matched to the colour of the natural teeth. Surveys and polls consistently show that the majority of people consider their smile their most important physical feature and it is no surprise that most people would have a preference for white fillings rather than a metal amalgam filling, which is highly visible.

Are there any drawbacks?

White fillings are very popular due to aesthetic reasons, but they are not always the best treatment option. If you have a cavity in one of your molars, for example, you may be advised to have an amalgam filling, as they are more durable and the molars are required to handle a lot of pressure due to their role in the breakdown of food. White filings are also more expensive than amalgam fillings.

What does the white filling procedure involve?

The procedure to fit a filling is relatively straightforward. First the affected tooth is numbed prior to the procedure to prevent any pain and then the decayed tissue is removed. Once the infected tooth tissue has been removed, the tooth will be cleaned thoroughly before filling material is poured into the cavity. An intensive light bean is then used to set the material and the filling is then finally trimmed to ensure it fits the cavity perfectly. If you are nervous about having injections or dental treatment, talk to your dentist, as they will be able to take steps to make you feel more comfortable and relaxed during the procedure

Why would I need to see a hygienist?

There are many reasons why you may wish to see a dental hygienist. Hygienists offer intensive cleaning treatments, which are much more effective than brushing and many people enjoy the feeling of a deep clean, as it makes the mouth feel fresh and the teeth look and feel smooth and glossy. You may be advised to see a hygienist if you have plaque or tartar, you are prone to decay or you suffer from bad breath. Hygienists can also play an important role in treating gum disease.

Hygienists often provide preventive treatments for children, who may be advised to have fluoride varnish treatments or sealants to reduce the risk of decay.

What services does a hygienist offer?

Hygienists offer a range of services, including:

• Bad breath clinics

• Fluoride varnish treatment.

• Sealants

• Scale and polish

• Oral hygiene advice (including oral hygiene instruction and advice about oral hygiene products).

• Gum disease prevention and treatment.

• Advice about healthy eating, giving up smoking and other lifestyle factors associated with oral health.

• Tooth polishing to prevent staining.

Finding a hygienist

Hygienists predominantly work in dental practices. Ask your dentist about the dental hygiene services available at a South East London dental practice.

What are the benefits of amalgam fillings?

Amalgam fillings are very strong and durable, which usually last longer than white fillings. Amalgam fillings are often recommended for the molars, as these teeth are required to withstand a great deal of pressure as a result of grinding and chewing food.

What are the disadvantages of amalgam fillings?

The major drawback of amalgam fillings is that they are clearly visible when you open your mouth. White fillings are designed to blend in with the natural teeth, but amalgam fillings are made of metal, which is clearly visible against the natural teeth. Some people also have concerns about the safety of mercury amalgam fillings and their impact on the environment.

Which type of filling should I choose?

The type of filling you choose may depend on the size and location of the cavity. If you have a damaged molar tooth, an amalgam filling may be recommended because it will last longer and withstand more pressure. In contrast, if the cavity is located in one of the front teeth, which are clearly visible when you smile, you may prefer to have a white filling for aesthetic reasons. Your budget may also affect the filling you choose and white fillings are not usually available on the NHS. If you have any question about amalgam fillings or white fillings in London SE1, contact your dentist.