What is cosmetic dentistry?
- Written by: Markham Associates
- Date:
- Cosmetic Dentistry

What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. Whether you want to whiten stained teeth, straighten misaligned teeth, or replace missing ones, cosmetic dental treatments can help you achieve a brighter, more confident smile, and our team at Markham Associates are here to help as an established dentist in Reading for over 50 years.
And the best part is that while cosmetic procedures are focused on improving the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, they can also improve overall oral health and function, meaning they are a fantastic investment into your appearance and wellbeing.
Popular cosmetic dentistry treatments
Teeth whitening
- Brightens discoloured or stained teeth
- Professional whitening offers better, longer-lasting results than DIY kits
- Safe and effective
A professional whitening treatment can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one session, giving you a radiant smile. At Markham Associates, we can offer you both at home and in practice dentist teeth whitening in Reading. Come down for a free consultation and see which approach works best for you!
Dental Veneers
- Thin porcelain shells placed over the front of teeth
- Ideal for covering stains, chips, and gaps
- Custom-made for a natural, flawless look
Veneers are a popular choice for those looking to completely transform their smile with a durable and long-lasting solution. Not only can veneers help change the shape of your teeth, they will also be whiter too!
Composite bonding
- Fixes minor chips, cracks, or gaps in teeth
- Quick and painless procedure
- Matches the natural colour of your teeth
Bonding is a cost-effective way to enhance your smile in a single appointment, restoring your teeth to their best appearance. Contact us at our dentist in Reading for a free consultation on composite bonding.
Six month smiles & Orthodontics
- Straightens misaligned or crooked teeth
- Clear aligners offer a discreet alternative to braces
- Improves bite and overall oral health
We know you have heard of Invisalign, but have you heard of six month smiles? Straightening your teeth with Six month smiles not only enhances your smile but also makes brushing and flossing easier, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. And you can have a brand new smile in 6 months (clue is in the name!).
Dental Crowns & Bridges
- Covers damaged or weak teeth for added strength
- Bridges replace missing teeth and restore full function
- Blends naturally with your existing teeth
Crowns and bridges provide both aesthetic and functional benefits, making them a great option for a complete smile makeover.
Dental Implants
- Permanent solution for missing teeth
- Functions just like a natural tooth
- Prevents bone loss and maintains facial structure
Implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement, offering a long-term, durable solution, and at Markham Associates we are now offering All-on-4 implants, so come down to our Reading dental clinic and have a consultation!
Why should you consider cosmetic dentistry?
Boosts confidence
A beautiful smile can help you feel more confident and increase your self esteem
Oral health improvements
Fixing missing or broken teeth can make them easier to clean
Long lasting results
Many of these cosmetic treatments offer years of improvement when you take proper care of your teeth
Customised for you
Our dentists will tailor your treatment to fit your needs and desired look

Is Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?
Cosmetic denistry is for anybody looking to enhance or improve their smile. Whether you have stained or discoloured teeth, chipped or uneven teeth, gaps or missing teeth, or misalignment or bite issues – there is a cosmetic dental procedure for you.
Come down for a free consultation at our Reading dental clinic and we can help determine which treatment plan is best to fit your smile goals!
Does Cosmetic Dentistry Hurt?
Most cosmetic procedures are minimally invasive and pain-free. If discomfort is expected, our Reading based dental team can provide numbing options or sedation to keep you comfortable.
How Long Do Cosmetic Treatments Last?
🦷 Teeth Whitening – 1-3 years with proper care
🦷 Veneers – 10-15 years
🦷 Bonding – 5-10 years
🦷 Crowns & Bridges – 10-15 years
🦷 Implants – A lifetime with good maintenance
Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene will help extend the life of your cosmetic treatments.
Final Thoughts
Your perfect smile is just one appointment away! And lucky for you, we carry out free consultations on all cosmetic dentistry procedures. Come and visit us at our dental clinic on Oxford Road, Reading, or give us a call to explore your options and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!