This is the process whereby the teeth of the upper and lower arches of the oral cavity are reconstructed.  This may be done to improve aesthetics, to close gaps between teeth and to reverse the signs of dental ageing.  Composite fillings, veneers, crown and bridge work as well as implant crowns, may be utilized to obtain the desired result.
 

Dental composites, also referred to as white or resin fillings, can be used to create cosmetic enhancements e.g. by closing the gap which lies between two teeth, or by covering the surface of a stained or discoloured tooth.  Composite or white fillings may also be used to fill decayed teeth and may be used to replace silver (amalgam) fillings for a more aesthetic appearance.  Composites come in a variety of shades which can be chosen to best match your natural tooth colour.
 

■  The Procedure :
A mild etching solution is applied to your tooth.  This forms microscopic crevices on the surface of the tooth.  This rough surface then forms the perfect attachment area for the composite material.  The surface is then prepared with an adhesive on which the composite or resin material is placed and cured with a high intensity light.  The bonded material is then sculpted and finely polished.  A good composite filling should be indistinguishable from your natural tooth.  The procedure should take about 30 min to 60 min depending on the size of the filling.
 

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain that are bonded onto the prepared front surface of teeth.  Porcelain veneers can be used to make aesthetic changes for teeth that are discoloured, chipped, worn or misaligned.

Porcelain veneers do not stain easily and create a very natural tooth appearance.
 

■  The Procedure :
A mild anaesthetic is given.  About 1mm of the tooth’s buccal /facial/labial aspect (the side of the tooth against the check or lips) is then removed with a fine burr.  An impression is taken and is sent to the laboratory.  The dental technician can then visualize and examine all aspects of your bite and jaw movements.  A veneer with perfect anatomy can then be sculpted.  About 7 days later the veneer is returned and is cemented onto the tooth surface.