Straight Talking

By: Dr Bob Khanna
Created on 09th November 2009

Dr Bob Khanna is a cosmetic dental surgeon and an internationally renowned expert in facial aesthetics. Every issue he discusses the latest treatments and procedures and answers your questions

What does a cosmetic dentist do that a normal dentist can't?
A cosmetic dentist is trained in all aspects of general dentistry but has a specialist interest in using the very latest techniques and knowledge to resolve crooked, broken and unsightly teeth. The aim is to create a more aesthetic smile either by restoring one tooth or multiple teeth, ideally using the most conservative methods possible.

This can be achieved using specialist whitening systems, clear braces, special resins or porcelain veneers and crowns. Implants can also be used to replace missing teeth. A diligent cosmetic dentist will be able to harmonise science with aesthetics in order to achieve the best results.

How can jagged teeth be corrected?
Jagged edges on teeth are either as a result of an isolated incident of trauma or due to continual wear following a grinding habit.

Minor jagged edges could be simply smoothed over and polished. However, moderate to extensive wear on teeth would need material added to replace the deficiencies and thereby protect the teeth from further damage and resultant sensitivities as well as to restore aesthetics and function.

This may be achieved in the short-term with a tooth-coloured filling called composite resin. For a more durable solution then it may be necessary to overlay the affected teeth with custom made porcelain.

Masterclass... porcelain veneers

Here I treated all the teeth in the 'smile shot' using bespoke porcelain veneers. This enabled a whiter, brighter and healthier looking smile. The eyes may be the 'windows to the soul' but as can be seen here the 'mouth is the voice of the soul'!

Next Big Thing... non-surgical chin implants

Many people are unhappy with their side profiles. This is often because the chin is small compared to the rest of their face. This can make the nose appear larger and the upper lip project too far forward. A redundant chin is perceived as a sign of weakness.

Historically the only way to fix this problem was surgery;  either breaking the lower jaw and re-setting it in a forward position or an implant on to the chin. Both procedures involve a general anaesthetic and time off to recover, with considerable swelling and discomfort.

I have discovered a way to 'rebuild' small chins by injecting a specially designed gel. The area is given local anaesthetic and then I inject the gel into the chin to create a fuller but natural result. Since each case is different I can vary the amount I inject to achieve the perfect result every time.

The procedure is totally painless, taking no more than 15 minutes to complete and the result is instant and will last for up to one year. There is very little bruising and swelling and most people can return to work the very next day.

CS&AM