THE TOP TRENDS IN COSMETIC DENTAL TREATMENTS

Similar to the world of fashion, there are also trending treatments in the world of cosmetic dentistry – although patients are generally not as fickle as fashionistas and the trends do not change as often. From whitening to teeth straightening, we look at some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry trends in 2016.

Teeth Whitening

As it has been in previous years, teeth whitening continues to be one of the most commonly requested procedures from any cosmetic dentist in 2016.

As opposed to buying home whitening kits from the local pharmacy, more people are realising the benefits of professional teeth whitening. The dentist-administered, in-chair whitening procedure tends to offer the safer and more comfortable route to achieving visible shade improvement. Prior to whitening, the cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth and review your dental records. This ensures your teeth and gums are healthy, and the whitening treatment will have maximum effect. The dentist will give your teeth a thorough clean in order to remove plaque, tarter and food deposits before commencing the whitening process. Protective devices and materials will also be used to shield the patient’s eyes, lips and gums from coming into contact with the bleaching agent. Although the costlier option, patients have found the safety, speed and efficiency of professional in-chair teeth whitening – allowing up to 8 shades of improvement in a one-hour session – to be the best value for money.

Invisalign

Invisalign offers one of the most popular forms of invisible brace techniques on the market. While they work much the same way regular braces do – in that they help to straighten the teeth without the need for dental surgery – Invisalign offer patients the ability to undergo treatment in a discreet fashion. Unlike wearing traditional metal wires and brackets on your teeth, Invisalign’s clear plastic braces (known as aligners) are virtually undetectable in your mouth.

These custom-made braces – that are changed every two weeks – use minute forces to gently realign your teeth until they move into the desired position. Invisalign has gained popularity amongst teens and adults alike. Invisalign is ideal for adult patients who are concerned about their appearance and wearing metal braces during social and professional events. Beauty-conscious teens too can avoid the social stigma of wearing traditional orthodontic braces. 

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin laminates of ceramic that mimic tooth enamel, that are placed over your existing teeth to hide aesthetic flaws. They offer a quick and minimally invasive cosmetic dental solution to make your smile look more beautiful and healthy. In just two to three dental appointments, the cosmetic dentist can conceal all your surface dental flaws like stained, cracked, crooked or unevenly spaced teeth.

Porcelain veneers are a viable substitute to teeth whitening or orthodontic braces for those patients wanting a permanent shade change, or for those who aren't prepared to commit to the timeframe of orthodontic alignment. Porcelain veneers can also be used to help protect the teeth for those who clench and grind, leading to wear faceting and shortening of the teeth. This grinding can expose the underlying dentine - which is much easier to wear compared to enamel and therefore - leads to further and further damage and potential sensitivity of the teeth.