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How Do You Find a Good Cosmetic Dentist?

Finding a good cosmetic dentist is one of the most important challenges you’ll face for your dental health. With so many professionals occupying the cosmetic dentistry space, how do you go about choosing a cosmetic dentist who’s right for you?

Even straightforward procedures like teeth whitening can have serious implications if treatment isn’t carried out at a professional and safe standard. But finding a cosmetic dentist is about more than just safety, which should always be given. It’s about finding not only someone with the clinical skills and knowledge, but also someone who understands your goals, and can make them a reality. It is a relationship built on trust.

The teeth and gums play an enormous part in your appearance. They can often be the first thing a person really notices about you, because when you smile it leaves a lasting impact. With advancements in cosmetic dental procedures, everything from gummy smiles and gappy teeth, to complete smile makeovers are possible.

We’ll lay out just what to look out for when you’re on the search for an approved cosmetic dentist. And we’ll draw on the knowledge of over 30 years’ experience in the orthodontic field. Dr Joe Oliver is one of London’s most respected and experienced cosmetic dentists, and has excellent insight and knowledge of the cosmetic dentistry field when it comes to choosing a top cosmetic dentist.

Dr Oliver runs private cosmetic dentistry clinics in London and in Manchester. Contact us for more information about our cosmetic dental treatments. Call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@theoliverclinic.co.uk at your earliest convenience.

Outstanding and long-lasting results

One of the first things you’ll want to know about any prospective cosmetic dentist, is the standard of their cosmetic dentistry procedures. You can quickly search for independent online reviews on any cosmetic dentist you are considering working with. The red flags to look out for are of course low-rated reviews, but also no reviews.

If you manage to find reviews left by former patients, have a read and see if they sound legitimate. If you’re on the hunt for the best cosmetic dentist, you should be aiming to find a cosmetic dentist with no less than five stars. If you wouldn’t compromise on your smile, don’t compromise on finding the best cosmetic dentist for treatment.

Dr Joe Oliver holds no less than 5 star reviews across a number of independent review sites. Cosmetic dentistry is his passion, and this shines through in the work he puts into helping patients achieve their dream smile.

Best cosmetic dentists near you

Things to look out for when identifying the best cosmetic dentist for you, are an authentic dedication to the profession as well as dedication to patients and the art of cosmetic dentistry. You may wish to find a specialist in one particular area. Such as dental implants, teeth straightening, laser gum contouring or cosmetic bonding.

Or for a complete smile makeover, you may require more extensive cosmetic dental work. So finding an expert capable of the highest standards across multiple cosmetic treatments can narrow down your search.

Do your research into the dental practice you are considering. You should be able to view before and after photos from previous patients who have undergone treatment. Dental professionals should never be nervous about showing you the results of their cosmetic dentistry work and an extensive portfolio of before and after photos is an indication of their experience in the field and the number of cases they have completed.

Anyone practising cosmetic dentistry should also be qualified, needless to say. You can search for approved cosmetic dentists near you on the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentists website. If you find your prospective cosmetic dentist on the British academy, this verifies they have been recognised for their skill and accredited by an official body.

Dr Joe Oliver is a member of nine professional organisations, including the American academy of cosmetic dentistry as well as the British Dental Association, and Care Quality Commission.

The latest in dental technology

As well as reviews, referrals and accreditation, a good dentist should be using the latest in dental technology to ensure that treatment options are minimally invasive. It’s important to protect the natural tooth as much as possible in any cosmetic dentistry procedure.

The materials used should also be of the highest quality, to protect your dental and oral health.

Check-ups and aftercare

The best cosmetic dentistry is about more than just your cosmetic dental work. Look out for a dental professional who offers first class aftercare and regular check-ups. The condition of your oral health, teeth and gums are important for maintaining a beautiful smile that lasts for many years.

The right cosmetic dentist may even offer a guarantee covering many years. This shows they have confidence in their work, and helps to build trust between dentist and patient.

Next Steps

Read more about why patients choose Dr Joe Oliver. It will give you further insight into what to look out for when considering your options in cosmetic dentistry.

If you would like more information about cosmetic dentistry with Dr Joe Oliver, don’t hesitate to contact us at your earliest convenience. You can call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@theoliverclinic.co.uk.

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How much is a smile makeover in London?

Your smile can make a world of difference to your appearance. Often a smile is the first thing a person really notices. So if you’re considering a smile makeover in London and wondering how much it costs, keep reading.

Dr Joe Oliver is the city’s most respected and experienced celebrity cosmetic dentist. Known for his popular treatment – the smile makeover London, Dr Oliver can get your smile in top shape, so you can regain confidence and start feeling great.

From tooth whitening and straightening, to more complex cases using porcelain veneers and temporary braces, a tailored approach is the best way to ensure your smile works for you. And there’s very little that Dr Oliver is unable to fix. So if you have a gummy or gappy smile, staining or damaged teeth or simply just crooked teeth, a transformation is more than likely possible.

Book a free online consultation for more information about a smile makeover in London with Dr Oliver. Call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverdentist.co.uk at your earliest convenience.

You can see for yourself the differences that a smile transformation can have, by viewing our before and after gallery.

Why choose a smile makeover with Dr Joe Oliver

We have helped improve not only the smiles, but also the lives of patients for many years at our clinic in London. When he is not being a dentist to the stars, Dr Oliver loves to help improve the confidence of his patients across the capital.

For those who have hang-ups about how their smile looks, a smile makeover is worth the investment if it means improved confidence and self-esteem. And with over 30 years’ experience under his belt, Dr Oliver has the skills, talents and techniques to bring out the best for your natural teeth.

Smiling is incredibly important in communication, and more often than not is unavoidable. So if you feel the need to cover up your teeth, consider booking a consultation for a smile makeover where we can show you some straightforward solutions.

What treatments are available to improve a smile?

Dr Oliver takes great satisfaction in being able to help all of his patients. So depending on your circumstances and your budget, we can craft a plan together to suit your needs. We have a wide range of fantastic cosmetic treatments at our practice in London.

We use the latest technology to carry out a full assessment of your teeth and smile, before we can get to work on recommendations. Most patients are able to achieve the smile of their dreams.

Porcelain veneers are one of our specialities and a highly effective way to transform the look of your smile. But cosmetic dental treatment to transform your smile can take many forms. Even teeth whitening can have a dramatic impact on your smile.

If you have crooked, cracked or gappy teeth, a more substantial makeover may be required. As well as porcelain veneers, Dr Oliver is experienced in providing makeovers using composite bonding or a discrete orthodontic treatment.

What happens during a smile makeover?

The first step on your smile makeover involves an assessment. We will take photographs and x-rays of your teeth which will enable us to show you what is possible with treatment. Often we can demonstrate with computers or models to show you various treatment options. This will give you a better idea of how your smile will look should you wish to go ahead with treatment.

Treatment plans are tailored to you and can be customised depending on the look you are hoping to achieve. We will never put pressure on you to go ahead with any procedure you are unsure about.

Indeed you should take the information away and digest it before deciding whether or not a smile makeover is something you wish to proceed with. However in many cases, when a patient is absolutely sure about getting their dream smile underway, it’s possible to start some treatments right away.

How much will it cost to transform your smile?

Due to the nature of everybody’s teeth being different, the cost for your smile makeover will depend on the extent of the treatment required. Some procedures such as porcelain veneers, are more costly than composite bonding and teeth whitening for example, due to the materials and service involved.

If your treatment is more comprehensive, the cost is likely to be higher. After your initial consultation, we will be able to provide exact costs for your smile makeover. This plan can be tailored, if there are aspects you would like to discount or include.

For a better idea on prices for certain procedures, you can view all of our fees and details on financing here.

About Dr Joe Oliver

Doctor Joe Oliver is renowned for offering the best in dental and orthodontic treatments from a highly professional dental clinic in London. With over 30 years’ experience and a clientele including celebrities like Helena Bonham Carter and Tamsin Outhwaite, he is unrivalled in his dental services.

Our mission is to help you smile confidently without discomfort. We’re focussed on providing the highest level of cosmetic improvement for your teeth and smile.

Next steps

Get in touch to take the next steps on your journey to your dream smile. You can book an appointment at your earliest convenience to begin an initial assessment. Or for more information, call us on 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverdentist.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Top 5 Reasons To Get Composite Bonding In London

If you have chips, cracks or discolouration to the teeth, composite bonding in London could be for you. We’ll take a look at exactly what composite bonding is, and run through the top 5 reasons to get composite bonding in London.

Composite bonding is sometimes referred to as composite veneers. It is a procedure to correct and improve the appearance of your natural teeth and smile. Many people become self-conscious about their teeth or smile, especially if they have damage or staining.

In a quick and straightforward process that requires no shaving to the teeth, your smile could be improved with composite veneers. Dr Joe Oliver is one of London’s leading cosmetic dentists with over 30 years’ experience and a clientele that includes A-list stars.

Composite bonding is a popular treatment available at Dr Oliver’s London dental practice. The treatment can be used to reshape the teeth, close gaps, and brighten and whiten the teeth.

Book a free online consultation for more information about composite bonding in London. Call 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverdentist.co.uk to get in touch with our cosmetic dentistry team.

Composite bonding can be completed within a single visit and is a cheaper yet effective alternative to porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are not only cost effective, but they can drastically improve the appearance of your natural smile.

What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding involves using a tooth-coloured resin that is fixed to or between the teeth. The material is similar to that used in dental fillings. Composite bonding or composite veneers, can be applied in a shade of your choosing and produces beautiful and natural-looking results.

The composite resin is made with a combination of plastic material and glass particles that can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. Once applied, it will be shaped and polished to resemble your teeth and improve your smile.

The history of composite bonding

Adhesive dentistry dates back as far as 1955 with technologies and bonding processes improving significantly over time.

In approximately 2012, universal adhesive bonding treatments were commercialised, allowing professional dentists to carry out treatments which involved adhesive bonding in a single treatment.

Dr Oliver has been treating patients for over 30 years and has unrivalled experience with composite bonding.

How is composite bonding done?

Composite veneers or composite bonding involves the application of thin layers of composite resin that is bonded to the natural teeth. The cosmetic procedure is incredibly quick and can be done in one session.

Results can last several years making it a popular choice for those looking to improve the appearance of their teeth with long-lasting results. If you decide you do not like the look or feel of composite veneers, the resin can be removed easily.

The benefits and top 5 reasons to get composite bonding in London

Composite veneers have many benefits if fitted by an experienced cosmetic dentist. Composite bonding can disguise damage to the underlying tooth, close gaps and improve the appearance of crooked teeth.

Here are the top 5 reasons to get composite bonding in London:

1. Cost – composite veneers cost significantly less than porcelain veneers

2. Durability – they can last for several years with amazing results, making them a cost-effective way to improve your natural smile

3. Efficiency – they can be fixed in a single application and repaired easily if they become chipped or damaged

4. Appearance – composite bonding can brighten and whiten your smile while fixing minor damage or gaps in the teeth

5. Minimal to no damage – treatment is pain-free since it involves no shaving of the teeth and therefore they can be removed easily without leaving lasting damage

Quality composite veneers will brighten and whiten the teeth in a natural-looking way. They can be shaped to any size to resemble your natural smile and correct minor dental issues.

Composite bonding is also less invasive than other methods of cosmetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers. This is because there is no shaving involved with the natural tooth. For this reason, composite bonding can be removed easily should you wish to revert to your natural smile.

An experienced cosmetic dentist can repair damage to the composite veneers if they become chipped or damaged. This is an advantage over porcelain veneers, which would need to be entirely replaced.

The risks of composite bonding

There are some drawbacks to composite bonding. Composite veneers can become stained over time and may be more prone to chipping and damage than porcelain veneers. However the cost of composite veneers usually offsets this risk, since they can be repaired easily without needing to replace the whole veneer.

How long does composite bonding last?

Depending how well you care for composite veneers, they can last for several years. The average duration for composite bonding is between 4-8 years.

How to take care of composite bonding

Take care of your composite veneers as you would your natural teeth, if you want to maintain a bright and white smile. Avoid substances which may stain, including harsh and abrasive toothpaste. Regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure they are properly cleaned and cared for. Continue to brush your teeth twice daily and use dental floss to maintain good mouth hygiene.

The best composite bonding in London

Dr Oliver is one of London’s most respected and experienced cosmetic dentists, and has been trusted by patients for over 30 years. In this time he has treated patients including Helena Bonham Carter, Olivia Attwood, Tamsin Outhwaite, Greg Rusedski and Jasmine Lennard to name a few.

Dr Oliver offers the best in composite bonding in London, through his dedication to the field of aesthetics and passion for excellence in cosmetic dentistry. Dr Oliver is committed to producing outstanding results and helping all of his patients obtain their perfect smile.

Next steps

Get in touch to find out more about cosmetic dental treatments at Dr Joe Oliver’s dental practice in London.Call 020 7770 6441or email info@joeoliverdentist.co.uk for more information about composite bonding treatments in London.

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Porcelain Veneers Vs Composite Veneers: What’s The Difference?

When you’re contemplating a smile makeover with dental veneers, you may find yourself asking what’s the difference between composite and porcelain veneers? Any type of cosmetic dentistry should be well thought through, and to make things easier we’ve laid out exactly what the difference is between composite veneers and porcelain veneers.

If you’re curious about your cosmetic dentistry options, or are looking for a new smile, Dr Joe Oliver is an expert cosmetic dentist with over 30 years’ experience in aesthetic dentistry.

Dr Oliver has clinics in both London and Manchester. Book a free online consultation for more information about composite or porcelain veneers with Dr Oliver. Call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverdentist.co.uk at your earliest convenience.

What is the difference between composite veneers and porcelain veneers?

Veneers are a popular and effective solution for achieving a white, sparkling, natural smile. There are other benefits of veneers including correcting crowded teeth, repairing chipped and worn teeth, hiding gaps, improving a gummy smile and brightening discoloured teeth.

Veneers are very thin, handmade shells that are placed on top of your natural teeth to give the exact look and feel like your natural teeth.

Veneers can be made from many types of material, but the two main types are porcelain veneers and composite veneers. The main differences between porcelain veneers and composite veneers comes down to time, cost and durability.

How long do composite and porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers tend to be longer lasting than composite veneers. Depending how well they are maintained, porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years whereas composite veneers last about half this duration – between 4-8 years. Due to his meticulous approach to veneers, Dr Oliver even has patients whose veneers have lasted for more than 25 years.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are crafted in very fine detail at a dental laboratory to resemble your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are usually fitted to the natural tooth enamel, over a number of appointments. Porcelain veneers require some preparation to the natural tooth for the thin layer of porcelain which needs to be fitted.

Composite veneers are quicker to fit and can be done in one session. This involves coating the natural teeth with composite material. Thin layers of composite resin are applied to the natural tooth to mask damaged or discoloured enamel. Composite veneers can be shaped to the correct size and are therefore suitable for correcting teeth that are slightly damaged.

Cost: Composite veneers vs porcelain

The cost comparison between porcelain veneers and composite veneers depends how you look at it. Due to their durability, treatment application and material, porcelain veneers are more expensive initially than composite veneers. However, since they last longer they should not need to be replaced as often as composite veneers.

Prices for porcelain veneers with Dr Oliver vary from patient to patient but start at £895 per veneer. Find out more about prices of veneers with Dr Oliver.

Advantages of porcelain veneers

There are some misconceptions that porcelain veneers make the teeth weak however this is not known to be true. If bonded correctly and placed by an expert dentist, porcelain veneers can be as strong and durable as the natural tooth.

Porcelain veneers are an excellent solution that mimic the natural teeth. This is why they are sometimes preferred to composite veneers. They are also highly stain resistant so can maintain that sparkly white look for a long time.

Advantages of composite veneers

Getting composite veneers tends to be less invasive to the natural tooth. It is also a much quicker process than the application of porcelain veneers. Composite resin veneers can be repaired if they become chipped or damaged. While they may be more prone to chipping than porcelain, porcelain veneers would need to be entirely replaced since they can not be repaired.

Composite veneers are not irreversible like porcelain veneers. Permanent veneers have their benefits, but can also be a factor for many people choosing to have composite veneers instead. These can be thought of as temporary veneers and therefore are more suitable for some patients.

For more information about porcelain and composite veneers with Dr Oliver, call the clinic on 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverclinic.co.uk.

About Dr Joe Oliver

Dr Oliver offers first class cosmetic dental treatment. With over 30 years’ experience in orthodontic treatment he is a firm favourite with patients and celebrities alike. Dr Oliver has treated celebrities including Helena Bonham Carter and Tamsin Outhwaite.

If you are looking to improve the natural appearance of your smile, get in touch with us today.

Book an appointment for more information. Call 020 7770 6441 or email info@joeoliverclinic.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

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What Types Of Problems Do Dental Veneers Fix?

Types of Problems easily fixed with veneers

It is not uncommon that people mistakenly think of porcelain veneers as a specifically cosmetic dental treatment.

However, veneers are often used to target a wide variety of dental issues – though they are a great way to improve the appearance of your teeth, this is not their only function!

The veneer is a thin layer of material placed on top of the tooth, so in effect, they provide a covering and can, therefore, protect damaged areas of the tooth/teeth. The veneer is attached via the use of dental cement and it is a permanent fixture in your mouth.

Some of the most common dental issues we treat with veneers are:

1. Discoloured teeth

As we grow older, natural teeth discolouration is avoidable. No matter how many times you brush or how advanced your dental hygiene routine is – it is practically impossible to retain that sparkling healthy white tooth colour!

There are of course teeth whitening products to target this, but if you have tried them and are not satisfied with the results, or you want to target two issues at once (e.g. having teeth which are both chipped and discoloured) then a veneer is the perfect answer to your problem.

The veneer covers the entire front surface of your natural tooth and therefore leaves you with a smile which is bright and pearly white. An additional benefit is that you can personalise the shade of white you desire. We have many options available whether you are looking for a bright, Hollywood grin or a more natural smile.

2. Gaps

There are several issues which can occur as a result of having gaps between the teeth. You may have difficulty breaking up food while chewing, ultimately causing digestive problems, or it can cause you to develop bad breath, yellow teeth,  pain and bleeding in the gums.

A popular way of treating gaps in the teeth is of course, braces. However, veneers are increasingly becoming a more favourable option for adults, since they offer:

  1. Fast and effective results
  2. Teeth whitening as well as straightening of teeth and closing of gaps
  3. A way to avoid often unsightly appearance and inconvenience of wearing braces
  4. The need to wear a retainer after the braces are removed

Since veneers can be shaped and adjusted to fit your mouth, we can create veneers which are big enough that they will close any gaps between teeth, and function just as your natural teeth would.

3. Overcrowded or narrow smiles

Regardless of your age, crowded teeth can occur at any point in your life. An overcrowded mouth can cause problems as it often leads to teeth which are misaligned and the subsequent moving of other teeth due to constant pressure from surrounding teeth.

This can impact both your oral health and your appearance. There are several options to treat overcrowded teeth including veneers, Invisalign, and other types of braces.

As long as the crowding/crookedness in your mouth is not too severe, veneers are a viable option to fix crowded teeth. During the procedure, we will file down some of the enamel on your natural tooth then apply a porcelain cover on top. In doing this, we can reshape and resize your teeth to the appropriate proportions, leaving you with a straight and healthy smile.

4. Chipped / worn or broken teeth

Chipped teeth can occur through accidental damage, from biting into something hard or general weakening of the teeth’s strength over time. Although we may think this is just an aesthetic problem, leaving a chipped tooth untreated can often lead to further damage since you leave the tooth vulnerable for the chip becoming worse.

The veneer will cover the tooth and therefore protect the natural tooth from further damage, while at the same time strengthening the tooth with the additional layer of material, allowing you to continue using it as normal.

If you only have one broken tooth and you are looking for a more affordable option, you may want to get one veneer and simply treat the broken tooth. However, most people get between four and ten veneers per arch as this is the best way to create an even, symmetrical smile.

5. Misaligned teeth

Nobody wants to have misaligned teeth, but if you didn’t get braces when you were a child, you may not want to go through the period of waiting for the teeth to straighten! As mentioned, there are many alternative braces options to close gaps and straighten the teeth.

However, if you want fast results without having to wait for the teeth to move (often between 6 – 24 months for most brace types) then veneers provide an amazing, effective solution. They provide multiple cosmetic benefits, and they’re durable and long-lasting.

5. Cosmetic purposes

Equally, if your teeth are perfectly healthy, but you simply want to refresh your smile or you are unhappy with the aesthetic appearance of your teeth – there is no reason why you shouldn’t justify this as a valid reason for treatment too.

Cosmetic purposes are a common motivation for getting veneers, and we help many, many patients improve their smile, their confidence and ultimately their quality of life!

Why choose to have your treatment with us?

At Dr Joe Oliver we are committed to providing exceptional results for our London and Manchester based patients, whether new or loyal.

When you have made the commitment to improving your smile and the functioning of your teeth through cosmetic dentistry, it is vital you choose a practice you can trust.

At Dr Joe Oliver, we value:

  1. Authenticity: Since our patients are our main priority, our first goal is to ensure you are happy. We create an open dialogue fuelled by an authentic interest in our patients’ needs and the desire to ensure you leave our practice feeling proud of your smile.
  2. Dedication: Dr Oliver teaches and lectures extensively on aesthetic and contemporary restorative dentistry nationally and abroad for prestigious institutions, attesting to his commitment to staying well informed and on top in the dentistry field.
  3. Results: We offer a 5-year guarantee on all veneer crowns and bridgework – if our patients are not satisfied our work is not complete!
  4. Innovation and expertise: Dr Oliver’s passion for excellence in dentistry has seen him introduce several innovations and techniques that are revolutionising modern dentistry and seldom seen in other cosmetic practices. This includes smile design analysis, biomimetic dentistry, 3D smile makeover planning, 3D smile prototype analysis and 3D CAT SCAN implant surgical planning.

Ready to feel better about your smile..?

If you would like to book a free consultation meeting, or you are interested in finding out more about the uses and effectiveness of veneers or our dental practice, please do not hesitate to get in contact on: 020 7770 6441 (London & Manchester Clinic).

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What’s The Procedure For Getting A Dental Veneer?

Getting a porcelain veneer is usually a multi-step process, however, this is dependent on the type of veneer you choose to have fitted.

A composite bonding/ composite veneer procedure often only requires one appointment, where we bond filling material to your teeth.

However composite bonding/ composite veneers are not as long-lasting and likely will stain which a porcelain veneer won’t.

Generally, the porcelain veneer procedure follows four steps.

  1. Consultation with the practice you have chosen to have your treatment with. During your consultation, your dentist will listen to your complaints, concerns and goals in regards to your teeth and your desired new smile.
  2. Step two, we create a 3D model of your new smile. We will take X-rays and impressions of your teeth if we need more information on the health of your teeth.
  3. Step three involves preparing the tooth for the veneer, where we will remove a small amount of the tooth structure, create an impression, then fit you with a temporary veneer or veneers.
  4. During stage four, the temporaries are removed, and the final veneers are bonded to your tooth.
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Pros and Cons of Veneers

Veneers are one of the best options to strengthen and straighten your teeth, brighten your smile and leave you with a grin you can be proud to show off!

Whether your teeth are chipped, misaligned, discoloured, gappy or unsightly, veneers are a popular option amongst many patients today.

Generally, the most enticing benefit about veneers is that the changes can occur relatively quickly (in just a couple of visits), the process is not reversible.

If you are interested in getting veneers and would like to know more about the pros and cons of this treatment method, see below:

Veneers: The Pros

  1. Highly durable, long-term solution: veneers can last up to 30 years if the procedure is done well and the patient cares for the teeth properly
  2. Veneers are moulded for your teeth specifically, meaning we can provide highly natural-looking results
  3. The procedure is minimally invasive, usually, only a small amount of the tooth has to be filed down before fitting the veneer
  4. Teeth whitening: we can personalise the shade you would like your new teeth to be, so you can have a sparkling white or a more natural shade
  5. Veneers provide effective results fast, we can target multiple issues at once e.g. discoloured teeth and gaps between the teeth
  6. The procedure does not hurt: Typically patients are numbed with a local anaesthetic for the veneering process, meaning there should be no pain during the procedure. If you are only having 2-4 veneers fitted, there is often very little or no discomfort after the numbness subsides. If you have 8+ veneers inserted, there can be some soreness in the gums post-treatment. We recommend over the counter medications to reduce any discomfort.
  7. No major upkeep required: Caring for your veneers generally requires dental check-ups/hygiene visits and regular brushing and flossing/ interdental cleaning, so it is not very different from how you would be expected to care for your natural teeth.
  8. Improves your confidence: Veneers are a guaranteed way to change your smile and get the results you desire – since you have the opportunity to ‘test-drive’ your smile through the temporary veneer stage of the practice, you get the chance to alter and adjust the final look of your new teeth.

The Cons

  1. Irreversible: this is the main concern for most people thinking of getting veneers. Since we remove some tooth surface in order to get the desired shape, you cannot get the original shape of the tooth back. However, it makes sense that you would not want to revert your teeth back to their original size/shape because that is the whole reason you are having the procedure!
  2. Routine checkups: It is required that you visit your cosmetic dentist for routine checkups and hygiene visits post-treatment, to ensure your beautiful smile remains consistent with veneers. Some people may find this an inconvenience, but it is required for most dental procedures.
  3. Just like natural teeth, veneers can become damaged if not cared for properly. People are encouraged to overcome bad habits such as biting nails or grinding teeth.
  4. Veneers are not suitable for people with active gum disease or weak teeth. We can assess the health of your teeth during an initial consultation if you are unsure whether or not you would be suitable for the treatment!

Additional common questions answered

Does it hurt or ruin the underlying tooth when placing veneers?

Patients are put under local anaesthetic during the procedure so they are numbed to the effects of any pain. Porcelain veneer does not damage your natural teeth. They can protect your natural teeth from further decay in some cases. However, it is important that your teeth are strong and healthy prior to treatment.

How long do they last?

If cared for adequately, veneers can last up to 30 years! Be sure to book regular check-ups and hygiene visits with your cosmetic dentist so we can identify any issues with your veneers early on.

Will my veneers remain white?

Porcelain is stain-free. If you choose to have porcelain veneers, your veneers will remain in their original white shade for their lifetime. However, you will have to eventually replace the veneers.

Can you eat normally with veneers?

You can continue to use your teeth as normal post-treatment, however, you should be mindful when eating hard foods – the same way you should with your natural teeth.

How much do veneers cost?

The cost of treatment depends on where you get it done and what is required for your specific needs. Find out more about pricing options.

Are there any alternatives?

There are alternative options available if you are unsure about the veneer treatment, such as composite bonding. If you would like to find out more about the options available to you, book a free consultation appointment where we can discuss your specific dental needs!

Get in touch today

Please either call our clinics on 020 7770 6441 (London & Manchester Clinic) or use our booking form.

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Worst Alcohol For Your Teeth Revealed

With the holiday season rolling in, we will start getting more invites to celebrations and trips to the pub. While a nice glass of wine or pint of beer might be a great way to quench your thirst, is it the best thing for your teeth?

Dr Joe Oliver is one of London’s leading dentists, renowned for his unparalleled multi-disciplinary service that ensures high-quality, end-to-end patient care. Today, he’s sharing (some of) the worst alcoholic drinks for your teeth teeth.

Prosecco

Coming in at number one is everybody’s favourite! However, with the acidic carbonated bubbles, alcohol and sugar, prosecco is a triple whammy of badness for your teeth. There’s one heaped teaspoon of sugar present in every flute, causing major drama for your tooth enamel – avoid the bubbles and you won’t suffer from the ‘prosecco smile’! 

Is Cider bad for your teeth?

If you want perfect teeth then avoid drinking cider: this favourite beverage also has a very high acidity which is not very good for your oral health.

Is Beer Bad for your Teeth?

Dark beers – stouts and ales are off the list if you want pearly white teeth, these drinks heavily contribute to stained teeth. Swap them with a lighter beer or lager!
 
Are Liquors Bad for your Teeth?
 
Spirits like Malibu are delicious because they are incredibly high in enamel destroying sugars. Swap them for drinks like vodka or gin as they also help fight bacteria in your mouth!
 
Dry drinks
 
Dry beverages like some wines or beer dry your mouth out and reduce saliva. Saliva is important because it helps remove any bacteria in your mouth, thus reducing your chances of smelly breath.

Mixers Bad for Teeth?

It isn’t always just the alcohol itself that is bad for your teeth, but the mixers that go with them. Classic mixers like Coke, lemonade, orange juice and cranberry juice have a high acidity and a high sugar level that wears down enamel. Swap them for soda water or tonic!
 
If you’ve been indulging in some of these drinks a little too much, get in touch with us today!
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5 Ways To Prevent Teeth Staining Which Actually Work

Try as you might with a thorough oral hygiene routine, sometimes stains just won’t shift. Once embedded, they are hard to get rid of (often requiring professional whitening services), which is why preventing them is so important.

Avoiding bad habits and implementing small, effective changes can make a big difference! 

Here, Dr Joe Oliver, who has treated a wide range of high-end clientele, shares 5 ways to prevent teeth staining which actually work.

1: Use a straw – where possible, use a straw with any staining beverages, such as red wine. This allows the liquid to bypass the teeth and therefore prevent staining.

2: Rinse out with water – after drinking coffee, try rinsing your mouth out with water. This will prevent the build up of liquid on your teeth and therefore limit the chances of staining.

3: Limit anything which stains – it might sound really obvious, but a beneficial decision for your teeth can be to limit your intake of staining drinks and food in the first place, and be more aware of what you need to avoid in order to limit staining. Some of your favourite foods can be the worst for the teeth!

4: Chew celery – this will stimulate more saliva, which will fight the bacteria build up in your mouth. Chewing celery and crunchy vegetables will help to clean teeth and rub your gums.

5: Visit your hygienist – regular visits to your dentist and hygienist should be a given anyway, but the more you keep on top of it, the more your professional will be able to monitor staining and offer preventative methods.

Sticking to these simple yet effective techniques will minimise the amount of deep stains – meaning your teeth should stay whiter for longer. If you’re interested in how to whiten your smile, check out some of our other tips.

Learn more about Dr Joe Oliver. If you’re ready to book an appointment, check out our fees page and get in contact here.

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5 Home Remedies For Whiter, Brighter Teeth Revealed

There are an overwhelming amount of products to choose from when it comes to making your teeth that little bit whiter – not to mention the potential for dental treatments which can brighten your smile – but sometimes it’s simple home remedies which can make a whole world of difference.

Below, Dr Joe Oliver who has worked with a wide range of celebrity clients, shares some great ways to achieve a brighter smile using natural home remedies!

1. Brush your teeth with baking soda. This is an ingredient present in most toothpastes, as it has natural whitening properties. By mixing a small amount of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water, this will help eliminate bacteria and target stains. Do this a few times a week, and you should see a gradual difference.

2. Eat fruit and vegetables. This is imperative for a healthy diet anyway, but certain hard and crunchy fruit and vegetables can help buff away plaque on your teeth as you chew. Additionally, fruits such as strawberries and pineapple specifically can contribute to whiter teeth due to the enzyme properties in them.

3. Prevent stains before they happen. Instead of investing time on targeting stains, try and limit the stains in the first place. Use a straw for any staining beverages such as coffee and red wine, and also try to brush your teeth as soon as you can after coming into contact with foods and drink which stain. Also try to avoid anything which can be damaging to your teeth, such as sugary drinks. Regular visits to the hygienist also play a good role in limiting the levels of stains.

4. Try apple cider vinegar. This product has traditionally been used as a natural cleaning product. The active acidic ingredient in apple vinegar is great at targeting bacteria, which is good news for your oral hygiene and stains on your teeth. Apple cider vinegar is best used as a mouthwash to swill around your mouth and spit out. However, it’s not advised to be used every single day, due to the acidic properties. It needs to be used sparingly and after being diluted with water.

5. Try oil pulling. This is a traditional remedy intended to remove toxins from the body and improve overall oral hygiene. Coconut oil is the most popular product to use, due to its more pleasant taste, and the amount of general health benefits it has anyway. Oil pulling involves swilling the oil around in your mouth like a mouthwash to target bacteria which can cause plaque, and trying to navigate the oil back and forth through your teeth before spitting out.

However, if you have serious stains, you may need more than just a few tips & tricks to try at home. Learn more about teeth whitening or explore the variety of cosmetic treatments Dr Joe Oliver offers.

Ready to book? Get in touch today!

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Our friendly, knowledgeable team are here to help. The Oliver Cosmetic Dental Clinic’s are located in London, Mayfair and Manchester.

CALL US ON: 020 7770 6441