Think of a cosmetic dentist and you will probably believe that they are concerned with the aesthetic appearance of your teeth and gums. Whilst cosmetic dentistry does focus on aesthetics, at Harley Street Dental Clinic we are also keen to point out that an attractive smile is also a healthy smile – there are often additional health benefits to cosmetic dental treatment.
Of course, treatment from a cosmetic dentist can have a hugely positive impact on your self-confidence, which also impacts positively on your professional and personal relationships. But there are other health benefits to cosmetic dental treatment, too.
One of the most commonly-requested treatments from a cosmetic dentist is to have straighter teeth. At our Harley Street clinic we offer a number of discreet orthodontic treatments, provided by our specialist orthodontists Dr Sarah Neale and Dr Emma Lang. These include lingual braces, which act in the same way as standard braces but are attached to the rear surfaces of the teeth so nobody will notice them in daily life, and clear aligners, which fit over the teeth and are removable for short periods to eat, drink, and clean.
Straighter teeth are healthier teeth, because they are easier to clean. With fewer gaps for food particles and bacteria to get trapped in, there is less chance of plaque building up, which in turn decreases the chances of tooth decay and gum disease developing.
Other treatments from a Harley Street cosmetic dentist that can improve your health include tooth replacements such as bridges or dental implants. It is always advisable to replace missing teeth, because otherwise additional strain is put on remaining teeth, which may also become crooked and more difficult to clean. Restoring your teeth enables you to eat a full, healthy and balanced diet, which can only be a good thing for your overall health and wellbeing.