When considering cosmetic dentistry what should you be looking for? 

Cosmetic dentistry is defined as “any type of dental procedure which enhances the patient’s teeth and their smile — thus improving a person’s overall appearance and self-confidence.” 

So if you have teeth that are crooked, uneven, missing, discoloured, short, long or crowded and you are not sure how to go about finding a dentist who can help you to achieve the smile of your dreams, then look no further.

When choosing a cosmetic dentist consider the following:

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Many cosmetic dentists attend conferences and courses through groups like the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD). Attending such courses demonstrates that the dentist is keeping up to date with the latest technologies and treatments.

Membership in Professional Societies:

Membership in dental societies shows a commitment to quality cosmetic dentistry. In the UK look out for memberships to organisations such as the British Dental Association (BDA) and the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF). Those that belong to the BACD demonstrate clinical excellence through continuing professional development.

Specialization:

As well as giving you a beautiful smile, a good cosmetic dentist should be concerned about your overall general dental health. 

PROFESSIONALISM

When considering cosmetic dentistry, you want to choose a dentist who you feel comfortable with, one who understands what you are looking to achieve. Consider things like:

Integrity:

Look for a cosmetic dentist who provides you with clear solutions and realistic expectations. Your satisfaction will be highest if you have a good understanding of what is truly possible from your dental treatment.

Evidence:

During your consultation, be prepared, ask lots of questions. Ask your cosmetic dentist to show you before and after photos of their previous work, powerpoint presentations, photo albums and so on. Ask to read previous testimonials from other patients who may have had similar treatment as to what you are considering and ask if the practice can put you in touch with a previous patient who has had similar work done.

Patience:

Look for a cosmetic dentist who takes the time to listen to your concerns and goals for your teeth and smile and thoroughly answers your questions.

ENVIRONMENT/TEAM

The environment as well as the team who will be looking after you, are also important things to consider when choosing your cosmetic dentist.

Team:

Look for people who are friendly, polite, knowledgeable and caring.

Technology:

Ask what latest equipment the practice uses. This will demonstrate how up to date the practice is. The more state of the art technology the practice has, the greater the likelihood of a more comfortable dental visit.

Practice:

Ask a team member to give you a tour of the practice. Do they have a separate sterilisation room? Does the practice look clean and tidy?  

The new instalment in the X-men series, Wolverine is out this week!  

Wolverine and his arch enemy Sabretooth both live a mutant life. With mutant powers, one of which slows their aging, they appear a lot younger than they are. Although, we may not be blessed with such mutant powers, the power of a healthy, beautiful smile can give you the confidence of any superhero! 

Sunita Verma, Principal at Sparkle Dental Boutique says `We often see patients here who have wolverine like fang teeth. The great news is that with the new technologies and techniques that are available today, we can  correct the appearance of fang like teeth using orthodontics/braces or cosmetic dentistry or a combination of both.  

Orthodontics involves the use of fixed or a removable braces to bring the teeth into the correct alignment.  

For those considering a cosmetic solution, fang like teeth can be straightened by using porcelain veneers. This procedure is often called `instant orthodontics’ as the teeth are corrected within two or three visits over a few weeks.”

Children Walking Tall 

Sparkle Dental Boutique is proud to be supporting Children Walking Tall (www.childrenwalkingtall.com).

Founded in 2004, Children Walking Tall is a registered UK charity dedicated to helping slum and street children in India. From their base in Goa, they provide food, shelter, medical care and education for some of the poorest children in India. In a safe, playful environment, they receive a fun and creative education, and also have plenty of time to do what children the world over should do, which is PLAY!

Children Walking Tall was established to give these children a springboard out of poverty. It aims to give the children something most have never had before: a childhood worth remembering. 

Kavita Verma, Boutique Manager of Sparkle Dental Boutique says “As a practice we’ve always been involved in giving something back to the community whether it be running for Cancer Research, sponsored walks or volunteering in India by painting classrooms and teaching english.

We wanted to be involved in a charity, which is making a huge difference to the lives of some of the most poorest in the world and a charity where almost all the money is going directly to those who need it most. We are planning many fund raising events in 2009 which should make for a fun, action packed year!”