Say cheese.
As Brits, our teeth have a bad reputation, whilst the Americans tend to be blessed with bright, white, straight smiles. Lucky buggers. Perhaps that's why we're so obsessed with teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry and treatments like Invisalign. The latest offering from doctors is teeth bonding.
We spoke to quite possibly the most glamourous dentist in London, Dr Rhona Eskander, about exactly what teeth bonding is.
What is teeth bonding?
Teeth bonding is a cosmetic technique that gives the appearance of a straighter, whiter smile, by shaping and moulding a type of dental material, in this case, on your teeth. It can be used as a cosmetic solution to chipped, gapped teeth and staining. It's different to porcelain veneers, which can take more than two visits, composite resin teeth bonding can be completed in one appointment. It also doesn't involve damage or cutting down of the teeth.
Who is a good candidate for teeth bonding?
Teeth bonding isn't for everyone. If your smile is crooked as the result of an over- or under-bite, this treatment won't be able to correct it. Teeth bonding is more for people who have healthy teeth, but aren't exactly thrilled with the way they look. It's a cosmetic solution.
What happens in your teeth bonding appointment?
The most incredible thing about teeth bonding is that you can, in some cases, walk in with your old teeth and walk out with a whole new smile.
'The treatment itself often starts with the removal of some surface enamel, allowing the dentist to best shape the composite resin,' Dr Eskander explains. 'This is followed by the application of the bonding agent. However in most cases we do not cut down the teeth at all.'
After this your dentist will then add the composite resin, cure it with a special light and finish by polishing your teeth. Ét voila, a Hollywood smile.
What's the aftercare for teeth bonding?
You have to go for regular check ups, as the bonding can chip and stain. You should be wary of eating anything too hard - avoid Toblerone that's been kept in the fridge.
Teeth bonding before and after
The before and after shots are unbelievable. Follow Dr Eskander's Instagram for more transformations.
What are the differences between teeth bonding and veneers?
'Veneers are made of ceramic and you have to cut down the tooth surface to fit them,' Dr Eskander explains. 'They do last longer, but the prep is more destructive. If the bonding chips, you can easily repair, whereas you'd need a whole new veneer replacement. Veneers are also much more expensive.'
How much does teeth bonding cost?
Dr Eskander charges from £200 per tooth, but remember you don't need to have every tooth done, because as she says 'you really only see the front four teeth anyway.'
Where should you go for teeth bonding?
We really must insist that you visit Dr Eskander at SW1 Dental (41-43 Great Peter St, Westminster, London SW1).
You'll be blown away by how fabulous she is.
Plus she has perfect teeth, so you know you're in good hands.
