Cosmetic Dentistry

Composite Restorative Dentistry

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Composite restorative dentistry is a modern, minimally invasive approach to restoring teeth that have been chipped, decayed, worn down, or discoloured. Using tooth-coloured resin materials, composite restorations are carefully shaped and bonded to the affected tooth structure to restore both function and appearance, blending seamlessly with your natural smile.

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Whether you're looking to fix a single damaged tooth or improve multiple areas of concern, this technique offers a cost-effective, safe, and natural-looking solution with immediate results.

The procedure is typically completed in a single visit. After assessing the tooth, your dentist will clean the area and gently prepare it for bonding. The composite material is then applied in layers, carefully sculpted to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth, and hardened using a special curing light. Once set, the restoration is polished for a smooth, lifelike finish.

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Composite restorations can be used for a wide range of dental concerns, including:

• Repairing chips, cracks, or fractures

• Filling cavities caused by decay

• Closing small gaps between teeth

• Reshaping uneven or worn teeth

• Masking discolouration or enamel defects

 

One of the key benefits of composite over traditional metal fillings is its aesthetic appeal—it closely mimics the natural translucency and colour of real teeth. It also bonds directly to the tooth surface, preserving more of your natural tooth structure and reducing the risk of future damage.

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Results from composite dental work can last many years with proper care. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups to prolong the life of the restoration. Though strong and durable, composite materials may wear over time and may require touch-ups or replacement after several years.

Porcelain Veneers

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Porcelain veneers are one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments available today, offering a refined and long-lasting solution to enhance the appearance of your smile. These ultra-thin, custom-made ceramic shells are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, instantly correcting imperfections and delivering a naturally radiant look.

 

Whether you're looking to brighten discoloured teeth, close gaps, or correct minor misalignments, porcelain veneers are a minimally invasive way to achieve a beautifully balanced smile.

 

The process typically involves two to three appointments. During your initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your smile, discuss your aesthetic goals, and design a personalised treatment plan. A small amount of enamel is then gently removed from the front of each tooth to make space for the veneer. Impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab where your veneers are hand-crafted to match the ideal shape, shade, and contour for your face and smile. Once ready, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using a strong adhesive. The result is a flawless, symmetrical smile that looks and feels natural.

 

Porcelain veneers can address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, including:

• Stained or discoloured teeth that don’t respond to whitening

• Chipped or worn teeth

• Uneven or misshaped teeth

• Gaps between teeth

• Mild crowding or misalignment

 

The advantages of porcelain veneers go beyond just aesthetics. They are stain-resistant, incredibly durable, and designed to last 10–15 years or longer with proper care. They also reflect light similarly to natural tooth enamel, giving you a bright, authentic-looking smile.

 

Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. Any sensitivity after placement typically subsides within a few days. Maintaining your veneers is simple—just follow good oral hygiene practices, attend regular dental check-ups, and avoid habits like nail-biting or chewing on hard objects.

 

Having your porcelain veneers done in South Africa not only ensures access to expert care and advanced dental technology but also offers significant savings compared to international prices, without compromising on quality.

Dental Bridges & Crowns

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Dental bridges and crowns are among the most reliable solutions in modern dentistry to restore damaged or missing teeth—enhancing both oral function and aesthetics. At Sculpted Medical Tourism SA, we work with South Africa’s top dental professionals to provide high-quality restorative treatments, combining clinical excellence with affordable pricing for international patients.

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What Is A Dental Crown?

A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. It's often used after root canal treatment, to protect a cracked or heavily filled tooth or to enhance the appearance of discoloured or misshapen teeth. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, with porcelain being the most popular for its natural, tooth-like appearance.

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What is a Dental Bridge?

A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally “bridging” the gap. It consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) anchored in place by crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges help restore chewing function, maintain facial structure, and prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting out of place.

 

The Process
Both treatments typically involve two visits. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared, and digital or physical impressions are taken. A temporary restoration is placed while the final crown or bridge is being crafted by a dental laboratory. On the second visit, the permanent crown or bridge is securely bonded in place, restoring both aesthetics and functionality.

 

Benefits of Crowns and Bridges:

• Restore natural bite and chewing ability

• Improve speech clarity

• Protect weakened or cracked teeth

• Fill gaps and prevent shifting of adjacent teeth

• Boost confidence with a natural-looking smile

• Durable and long-lasting, especially with proper care

 

Who Are They Recommended For?

Crowns and bridges are ideal for individuals with broken, worn-down, or missing teeth who want a fixed, non-removable solution. Patients must have healthy gums and sufficient tooth or bone structure to support the restorations. For those missing multiple teeth or needing implant support, a consultation with one of our partner dentists will determine the best approach.

 

With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, crowns and bridges can last 10–15 years or longer. Avoiding hard foods and grinding, and maintaining a clean oral environment are key to their longevity.

Dental Implants

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Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering a long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or several, implants can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. 

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What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, these implants support a crown, bridge, or even a full set of dentures, creating a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.

The titanium used in implants is biocompatible, which means it fuses naturally with your bone through a process called osseointegration. This makes implants exceptionally secure and durable.

 

Who Are Dental Implants Recommended For?

Dental implants are suitable for adults who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease. To qualify, patients generally need:

• Healthy gums

• Adequate bone density in the jaw

• Good overall health

 

If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be recommended as part of the treatment plan.

The Dental Implant Process

The journey typically includes several stages:

1. Consultation & Imaging – Your oral health is evaluated, and 3D scans are taken.

2. Surgical Placement – The implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthesia or sedation.

3. Healing & Osseointegration – The bone integrates with the implant over 3–6 months.

4. Abutment & Crown Placement – A custom-made crown or prosthetic is securely attached to the implant.

 

While the full process takes a few months, many of our international clients combine their recovery with a relaxing stay in South Africa, making the journey both restorative and enjoyable.

 

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Permanent and durable (can last a lifetime with care)

• Look, feel, and function like natural teeth

• Prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure

• Allow normal eating and speaking without worry

• No slipping or clicking, unlike removable dentures

• Preserve the health of surrounding natural teeth (no need for grinding)

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With proper hygiene and regular dental check-ups, implants can last 15–25 years or longer. The crown or prosthetic may require replacement after a decade due to normal wear.​

Dentures

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Tooth loss—whether due to age, injury, or disease—can affect your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures offer a time-tested, effective solution for restoring not only the function of your mouth but also your self-esteem. 

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What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore oral functionality. They are typically made from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with metal for added strength. Modern dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever, thanks to advances in materials and design.

There are two main types:

• Full Dentures – Recommended when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw (or both) are missing.

• Partial Dentures – Used when some natural teeth remain, filling in the gaps while preserving existing teeth.

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Who Are Dentures Recommended For?

Dentures are suitable for individuals who have lost several or all of their teeth due to decay, gum disease, trauma, or aging. They are often a cost-effective alternative to dental implants and can dramatically improve a person’s appearance, ability to chew food properly, and speech clarity.

 

The Denture Process

The process of getting dentures usually involves several steps:

1. Initial Consultation – Assessment of your oral health and discussion of denture options.

2. Impressions – Moulds of your gums and any remaining teeth are taken to create a precise fit.

3. Try-In Fitting – A trial denture is made to check comfort, bite, and appearance before the final version is crafted.

4. Final Fit & Adjustments – The completed denture is fitted and adjusted for optimal comfort and function.

 

Our partner clinics in South Africa use digital scanning and 3D technologies to ensure precision and speed, minimizing the time you need to spend in the chair and allowing you to enjoy your recovery in beautiful surroundings.

Benefits of Dentures:

• Restore the ability to chew and speak naturally

• Enhance facial appearance by supporting cheeks and lips

• Boost self-confidence with a natural-looking smile

• Removable and easy to clean

• Cost-effective tooth replacement option

• Quick turnaround compared to more invasive procedures

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With proper care, dentures typically last between 5 to 10 years. Over time, they may need adjustments due to natural changes in your gums and bone structure. Regular dental check-ups help ensure continued comfort and function.

 

Aftercare and Lifestyle Tips

• Clean dentures daily using a soft brush and recommended cleaner

• Remove dentures overnight to allow gum tissue to rest

• Soak in a denture-safe solution to maintain shape and hygiene

Teeth Whitening

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A radiant smile can make a powerful first impression, and one of the quickest ways to boost your smile’s appeal is through professional teeth whitening. Over time, teeth naturally become stained or discoloured due to factors like coffee, red wine, smoking, medication, and simply the ageing process.

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Unlike over-the-counter products, professional teeth whitening delivers noticeable, longer-lasting results in just one session. The treatment is designed to break down stains deep within the enamel without damaging the tooth structure. Using state-of-the-art technology and clinically proven whitening agents, our partner dentists can lighten your teeth by several shades in under an hour.

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The process typically begins with a consultation to assess your dental health and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for whitening. Once approved, a protective barrier is applied to your gums, and a specially formulated whitening gel is placed on your teeth. A light or laser may be used to activate the gel and accelerate the whitening process. In-office treatments are often followed by custom take-home trays to help maintain your new bright smile.

 

Professional teeth whitening is ideal for:

• Surface stains caused by food, beverages, or smoking

• Yellowing due to ageing

• Enhancing overall smile aesthetics before events or cosmetic procedures

• Patients with healthy teeth and gums looking for a safe, fast confidence boost

 

Results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on your lifestyle habits and oral hygiene routine. Periodic touch-ups and avoiding staining foods and drinks can help maintain your whitened smile longer.

 

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive, low-risk cosmetic procedure with minimal sensitivity or side effects. Some individuals may experience mild gum or tooth sensitivity, but this is usually temporary and easily managed with fluoride treatments or desensitising toothpaste.

 

Choosing to whiten your teeth as part of your medical tourism journey in South Africa means access to world-class dental care at a fraction of the international cost—without compromising on safety or quality.