It is part of the traditional relationship between the USA and the UK – the British make jokes about the Americans’ lack of culture, and the Americans make jokes about the British having bad teeth. Like any popular subject for teasing, there is very little basis in fact behind either claims, particularly since the phrase “cosmetic dentistry” entered the British psyche.
One thing that is certainly true is that in America, that sparkling Hollywood smile is seen as an absolute essential in life, and imperfect teeth will simply not be tolerated. Back across the pond, the British have been quick to take the hint, and stars including newsreader Kirsty Young and actress Martine McCutcheon have chosen teeth over tummy tucks to keep themselves looking at their best.
Yet it is not just something for the rich and famous to consider. If your teeth are a little off colour, crooked or imperfectly spaced, perhaps you should be thinking of cosmetic dentistry Dublin is now as well resourced as New York or Los Angeles if you want that Hollywood smile.
Let’s take a look at three of the most popular services on offer.
Whitening
Over the years, the teeth lose their colour as a natural part of the ageing process. However, genetics, as well as diet and lifestyle, also play their part in the process. Tobacco, red wine, tea and coffee will all stain the teeth yellow.
Whitening is a way of turning back the years without harming the teeth, and a home whitening kit is a simple and effective way to achieve great results. Your dentist will provide you with a tailor-made mouthguard that is filled with a special whitening gel. All you have to do is wear the guard for 30 minute intervals, or as directed by your dentist.
The process does not harm the teeth, and apart from the possibility of some short term sensitivity (it usually wears off within 48 hours), is completely painless.
Clear braces
You would be surprised at the number of adults who go through their entire lives covering their mouth when they laugh or smile, as they are embarrassed by their teeth. They assume that orthodontic work late in life will be prohibitively expensive and time consuming – besides which, surely only teenagers walk around wearing braces?
Enter the phenomenon of clear braces and the six month smile. Clear braces are one of the most exciting innovations in cosmetic dentistry. They have the double benefit of working much faster than traditional braces while also being far more discreet – if fact, they are hardly noticeable at all.
Treatment time is typically 4-9 months, and the process is completely painless.
Crowns
Perhaps the most familiar form of cosmetic dentistry, crowns are used to restore or replace damaged teeth. Every crown is made from porcelain or metal and is manufactured to your individual specification, based on an impression of your tooth. The crown completely covers the tooth, adding strength and rigidity, and when it is bonded in place, it will last a lifetime if properly looked after.
