Cosmetic Dentistry In The UK - What Treatments Are Available? by Kathryn Dawson

There are a huge number of cosmetic dentist treatments available in this day and age. Dentists today provide a much greater role than simply checking up on our teeth and occasionally making a filling. Today there are a range of procedures and treatments that dentists and oral health specialists can carry out. These range from very simple procedures such as teeth whitening to more complex surgeries such as fitting dental implants. The procedures available have come down in price over the years which is making them more popular across the UK. As people realise that a Hollywood smile is within their grasp they are looking to dentists to make that happen. This article acts as a guide to the type of treatments available in the UK.

Teeth whitening is a popular and cost effective procedure. This can be done at the dentist or even at home. Teeth cleaning is an important part of a regular checkup, whitening simply takes this one step further. You should talk to your dentist about the best course of action to take. Sometimes a home treatment can be suitable, other times something more may be required to have the desired affect. Be aware that some treatments can leave your teeth feeling more sensitive than usual. Your dentist should discuss this with you though.

Missing a tooth? How about getting a dental implant. This is when a metal "root" is inserted into the jawbone and left to fuse with the bone. Once secure, a tooth can be attached to the root (an artificial tooth) that is both strong and functional. The tooth can be made to look like the existing teeth you already have and it is very difficult to see any difference between a real or prosthetic tooth. This is a great solution to someone missing just one or two teeth. The cost can be around Ј800, or it can cost several thousand per tooth. Some people are not suitable candidates for this procedure and the bone needs to be strong so the root can take hold. Those with weak bone in their jaws won't be able to have this procedure undertaken on them.

Porcelain veneers are all the rage in Hollywood. If you have ever noticed that actors and singers all have perfect teeth, you could be forgiven for thinking that only those with a perfect set have a chance of breaking into the industry. This is inaccurate - it's simply that the majority have had veneers. This is when a covering is placed over the existing teeth to make the teeth appear to be straighter and whiter than they actually are. This type of work does require some filing of the teeth underneath and should not be undertaken lightly. On occasion a veneer or two have been known to fall out and they will likely need replacing at a future date. Prepare for future costs as well as the immediate costs if you are contemplating this procedure.

Crowns can also be fitted onto teeth which makes them appear better and makes them stronger too. They can be good solutions for cracked teeth and the procedure is not nearly so severe as having veneers fitted. If you are interested in improving your smile but don't want to undergo any major surgery then a good clean and whitening is the best route. Talk to your dentist to find out how you can go about this. If you would like more work doing then it is best to do some research, talk to your dentist and if possible, find someone who has had the work done themselves.

There is plenty of cosmetic dentistry in the UK available. From minor procedures to serious surgery you can have a complete smile overhaul if you desire. There are different types of dental treatment available from implants, dental work such as crowns or getting complete veneers to mask damaged or discoloured teeth.