What it is
Aesthetic dentistry is Dr. Palak's area of special interest; her FAD from Germany is a fellowship in aesthetic dentistry. The aim is a smile that looks like yours on a good day, natural in colour and shape and in proportion with your face, rather than a one-size-fits-all look.
Options range from small, conservative changes such as bonding a chipped edge or closing a small gap, to veneers and full smile design. Healthy teeth and gums come first, so any decay or gum problem is treated before cosmetic work.
When you might need it
- Chipped, worn or uneven front teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Stained or discoloured teeth that whitening can't fix
- Teeth that look too short, too long or uneven in shape
- You'd like to improve your smile for an occasion and want a plan that fits your time and budget
Only an examination can confirm what a symptom means. If any of these sound familiar, book a consultation.
What happens at Tooth & Care
- Talk it throughWhat you'd like to change, and what you don't want to change.
- Examine and planTeeth, gums and bite checked; options, number of visits and costs explained.
- PreviewWhere useful, a mock-up so you can see the proposed shape before committing.
- TreatmentBonding, veneers, contouring or whitening, finished and polished to blend in.
How long it takes
Bonding and reshaping are often done in one visit. Veneers and smile design usually take two or more visits.
Afterwards
- Avoid biting very hard things such as ice or bones with bonded or veneered teeth
- Limit staining food and drinks for the first couple of days
- Keep regular check-ups and cleanings to maintain the result
Questions patients ask
What is smile design?
A planned approach to a smile that looks at the shape, size, colour and alignment of the teeth together with your lips and face, before any treatment begins.
Veneers or bonding?
Bonding is quicker, lower cost and needs little or no tooth shaping. Veneers last longer and resist staining better. The right choice depends on your teeth and goals.
Will cosmetic work look fake?
The aim is a natural result. You'll see and agree the plan, and where useful a mock-up, before anything is done.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Dr. Palak will advise you after examining your teeth.
