Bleaching is a procedure that brightens teeth that are discoloured, stained or have become darkened because of injury. It is most effective in lightening yellowing teeth. It can be used by itself or in combination with other cosmetic procedures.

There are two types of bleaching procedures. Bleaching that is done completely in the dental clinic (chair side bleaching) and dentist supervised home bleaching (night guard bleaching). Bleaching does not have any side effects, except that the teeth may be sensitive for a short period of time. Bleaching is not recommended in children.

It is a simple procedure to reshape teeth that are slightly crooked or uneven, to improve their overall appearance and create harmony and balance in the mouth. This procedure is painless and the results are immediate and can be dramatic.

Before cosmetic contouring

After cosmetic contouring

Bonding is done using tooth coloured materials which are applied to the surface of teeth to cover discolourations, repair chipped teeth, fill gaps and replace old silver fillings. The procedure is painless and can be completed in one visit. Composite bondings need to be changed every three to five years as they may chip or stain.

Before composite bonding

After composite bonding

Laminates are thin custom made shells made of tooth coloured materials that are used to cover the front side of teeth. Laminates are made in the laboratory of composite or porcelain. They are used to close gaps or cover teeth that are stained, poorly shaped or slightly crowded. Porcelain Laminates usually last for about five to ten years and do not stain like bonded teeth. 

Before Laminate placement

After porcelain Laminate placement

Crowning (capping) is normally done if the teeth are worn down a lot, if the teeth are broken badly due to an accident or if the teeth have undergone root canal therapy. Crowns are normally made in Porcelain fused to metal, all ceramic or metal. The procedure normally involves two to three sittings. Very good esthetics can be achieved by crowning. These normally last for about five to ten years, with regular maintenance.

Before Crowning

After Crowning

For straightening malpositioned teeth patients no longer have to wear metal braces, they have the choice of wearing ceramic braces that are tooth coloured, which make the braces almost invisible. 

Patients who have a “gummy smile “ usually undergo contouring of the gums to lengthen their teeth to improve their appearance. This procedure may be combined with bonding or laminates. Also, dark gums can be lightened by a small surgical procedure.

When there is a skeletal mismatch in the relationship of the jaws, orthognathic surgery can be performed to reestablish facial harmony.