A cosmetic smile creation is a term we use to describe the procedures we use to create the perfect smile, in order to enhance and rejuvenate a patient’s natural smile. This can be achieved using a number of options such as porcelain veneers inlays, ceramic bridges, implants, white fillings and teeth whitening.

The smile is designed to suit each individual’s needs to create harmony and balance with their face, the way they smile and their mouth. The procedure is very simple and you can walk away with the perfect smile after visiting us.

Cosmetic treatments may be required for a number of reasons, they may include some of the following:

Discoloured teeth
Gaps between teeth
Discoloured old white fillings
Amalgam( silver) fillings
Broken or decayed teeth
Gum disease
Staining of teeth
Gum recession and tooth wear

White Fillings

Your smile will look more natural with white fillings.

Many people have had amalgam fillings (silver) or gold fillings. Although strong they are unsightly, furthermore amalgam tends to discolour your teeth over time. White or tooth coloured fillings are known as composite fillings, these are made from a putty-like resin that can be moulded to the exact shape of the tooth and set using a visible blue light, they are lifelike and long lasting.

White fillings are the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. They do have some limitations regarding size and position in the mouth; your dentist will discuss these with you.

Many people decide to switch to white fillings when older style amalgams need replacing due to wear and tear. However, if you have dark or discoloured fillings that are visible when smiling or laughing, you may decide to change them for cosmetic reasons.

The latest white fillings are available in a wide range of colours and translucencies, enabling the dentist to closely match the colour of your teeth and give them a natural and pleasant appearance.

Veneers

Veneers are often used to improve the appearance of your teeth when braces aren't suitable. Veneers are a fantastic way to improve the appearance of chipped, worn and tired teeth.

The first stage if you are considering veneers is to arrange to have a model made in wax of what you would like your new smile to look like, usually you can even 'try in' you new teeth before you commit to treatment! Our treatment co-ordinators are available to talk you through the process.

At Affinity Dental Care we work with some of the UK's best laboratories and have established fantastic working relationships to ensure that your lab-made restorations are of the highest quality both clinically and aesthetically.

There are 2 different types of Veneers

COMPOSITE VENEERS

Composite veneers are faster and more affordable than porcelain veneers placed in 1 visit. A special layering technique is used to incorporate subtle characterisations which mimic nature. We would typically expect these veneers to be replaced after about 8 years.

PORCELAIN VENEERS

The most beautiful and hard wearing veneers available. They are the “gold standard” in cosmetic dentistry, if you ever notice someone has a stunning smile you are probably looking at these veneers. Porcelain work will need replaced after about 15 years.

Teeth Whitening

We can help you achieve a perfectly white smile using our simple tooth whitening procedure.

Tooth whitening is one of the most popular treatments we offer. We can gently remove staining on or in your teeth using a painless bleaching tray technique. You control how white your teeth become by how often you use the system.

Tooth whitening (bleaching) is a cosmetic procedure for lightening the existing tooth colour. The chemical used for whitening is either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. It can be activated using heat or heat and light combined. The chemical in the form of gel is usually applied using a specially made tray fitting your teeth.

Our dentists will usually recommend tooth whitening if your teeth are affected by:

general staining caused by exposure to colouring foods and drinks
mild tetracycline staining or flurosis (mottling)
age yellowing and greying.

3 appointments to whiter teeth

First Appointment
During your first visit you will be told about any alternatives to bleaching and you will be warned that the necks of your teeth will not lighten as much as the rest. It will also be explained to you that you may experience some temporary sensitivity during the tooth whitening procedure. Finally we will take impressions for the trays which will be sent off to be constructed at the dental laboratory.
Second Appointment
At your second visit your dentist will fit the whitening trays and give you instruction on the correct way to use the tooth whitening system. You can then take your personalised tooth whitening kit home to carry out the procedure for a few hours each day.
Third Appointment
Your the third visit is to check the progress of your tooth whitening, follow-up to check on the results and answer any questions that you may have.

How long will the whitening effect last?

The treatment results depend on the original shade of your teeth. The effect usually lasts for one to three years but can last longer depending on the diet. Then you may need to top up. Some people find that their teeth are extra sensitive several days after the treatment has been completed but it usually wears off after some time.

Are over-the-counter whitening kits as effective?

Tooth whitening is a complex treatment procedure that should be carried out by a dentist after thorough examination and assessment of your teeth. To ensure achievement of the desired results it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions. Although the over- the-counter kits are cheaper than the whitening treatment offered by the dentist they are not as effective due to reduced concentration of hydrogen peroxide, besides, some kits contain mild acids whilst others are mildly abrasive.

Does whitening work on veneers and crowns?

Whitening only works on natural teeth and it doesn’t work on any type of false teeth including dentures, crowns and veneers. Stained veneers, crowns and dentures may need replacing so check with your dentist first.

Can whitening toothpastes replace whitening treatment?

Whitening toothpastes are no substitute for professional tooth whitening. Although effective at stain removal they do not affect the natural shade of teeth. They are helpful in maintaining the appearance of professionally whitened teeth.

Dental Implants

What is an Implant?

An implant is a titanium root that is gently placed under your gum. Your body grows bone over the implant keeping it well anchored. A new tooth is then designed to connect to the top of the implant so you can eat speak and smile with confidence.

BONE GRAFTING

Just like teeth, implants need a certain amount of bone or gum as support. If you have lost bone or if the gum is not sitting in the best position we can help correct the problem. These advanced treatments called Bone Grafting or Gum Grafting can springboard you toward your results.

Replacing a Single or a Few Teeth

Did you know that you don’t always need an implant to replace every tooth? For example if you have a 3 tooth gap sometimes the dentist will advise 3 new teeth sitting on a platform of 2 implants. This kind of approach closes your gap and is more cost effective than 3 single implants.

After Care

At each stage of your implant treatment we keep in touch with you to ensure satisfaction. We show you how to clean around our "easyclean" design implants which maximises health and promotes treatment longevity. The implants, gum and bone health are checked every 6-12 months.

Timescales and Payment

The advanced training and material processes involved in providing you with implant solutions mean that the investment is of a higher level than in general dentistry.

Implant work normally takes 3-6 months to complete. Temporary teeth are always an option so you are never left with a gap from the start of treatment. The temporary can be used as a prototype for the long term teeth. This means you are looking better as you proceed.

This time frame along with our finance schemes means more choice with your payment options for this investment. All the time patients tell us how the benefits of implant treatment was worth it in terms of time and money.

Airflow Stain Removal

What is it?

Airflow cleaning is a simple way to effectively remove surface stains from teeth. The system uses a focused jet of compressed air, water and bicarbonate particles to gently polish away surface staining from the teeth.

What is it for?

Airflow cleaning is a great way to simply and effectively brighten your smile. It will remove surface staining but will not lighten the base colour of the teeth. To achieve that, see ‘Teeth Whitening’. Stains that are removable include tea, coffee, wine, curry, chlorhexidine and tobacco.

What does the procedure involve?

The treatment lasts around 30 minutes, during which time the teeth will be cleaned with the air/water/bicarbonate jet. This may be combined with ultrasonic staining for any tartar which may need to be removed. Anaesthetic is not required and the cleaning is pain-free. The only thing is that you may get a little wet.

This depends entirely on your diet/smoking/cleaning habits. If you are a big fan of tea, coffee, red wine and curries, you can expect the staining to return over a few months. If you rarely have these and are a thorough brusher at home, teeth can remain stain-free fur up to a year.

Most patients who choose Airflow Cleaning will have the procedure around once a year, and also just before any special occasions (perfect for weddings!).

How long will it last?

This depends entirely on your diet/smoking/cleaning habits. If you are a big fan of tea, coffee, red wine and curries, you can expect the staining to return over a few months. If you rarely have these and are a thorough brusher at home, teeth can remain stain-free fur up to a year.

Inman Aligner

The Inman Aligner is an orthodontic appliance that has been around for many years to treat problems with alignment of your front teeth. They have gained popularity more recently due to the media attention that they have received, and their advantages over fixed metal braces.

Here at Affinity Dental Care, Dr Rachel Emerson is our Inman Aligner expert. During your consultation she will discuss with you how the Inman Aligner could benefit you or if alternatives are available. The benefits of the Inman Aligner are:

They are an alternative to Invisible Braces
Only one appliance is required – no need to change every 2 weeks
Results are usually faster than fixed or invisible braces
They can easily be removed to eat and clean your teeth

Late Night Opening

028 9266 5588

Email Us

Smile Makeover