A Hollywood smile: treatment options and costs

“Hollywood smile” is a description of an appearance, not a dental diagnosis or a single treatment. For some people it means lighter teeth; for others, closing gaps or changing the shape of a tooth. Healthy teeth naturally vary in colour and alignment, and you do not need a bright white smile to have a healthy mouth.

If you would like to make a change, start by discussing what matters to you. Your dentist can check your teeth and gums, explain suitable options and help you avoid treatment that would remove healthy tooth tissue unnecessarily.

Changing tooth position or shape

Braces and clear aligners move teeth. The appropriate appliance depends on the movements needed and your bite. Invisalign is one aligner system, but it is not the only removable option for adults. Wearing time and the schedule for changing trays must follow your individual plan. Retainers are needed afterwards to help maintain the result.

Veneers work differently. These thin porcelain or composite coverings can change the visible shape and colour of teeth, but they do not straighten the roots or correct a bite problem. Some treatments involve removing enamel, which does not grow back. Veneers may also need repair or replacement in future. Read our guide to veneer costs and considerations.

If a tooth is missing, a denture, bridge or implant may be considered. An implant supports a replacement tooth; it is not a reason to remove a healthy tooth simply to change its colour. Implant treatment involves surgery, healing and ongoing maintenance, and it is not suitable for everyone.

Making teeth lighter

Whitening changes the colour of natural teeth. It will not whiten fillings, crowns or veneers, so any visible restorations need to be considered when planning the final appearance.

A dentist-provided home kit uses fitted trays and a prescribed gel. In-surgery treatment is another option. The product and your starting shade influence the course of treatment; a lamp or a short appointment alone does not guarantee the best result. Sensitivity and gum irritation can occur, even with professional care.

Enlighten is one of the systems offered at our practice. Its manufacturer states that it guarantees Vita shade B1 and does not require a white diet. Ask your dentist how the treatment and guarantee apply to you. This does not mean that every patient needs the same treatment length or that the result is permanent.

Whitening is a cosmetic choice. Existing decay, gum disease or unexplained sensitivity should be assessed first, rather than hidden behind a change in colour.

Keep the health of your teeth in the plan

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth. Professional cleaning can remove deposits and some surface staining, but not everyone needs the same cleaning procedures or appointment interval.

Your dentist can explain the likely maintenance for each option. This may include retainers after orthodontics, repairs to restorations or supervised whitening top-ups. Include that care in your decision as well as the initial appearance.

How much does a Hollywood smile cost?

There is no single package price that suits every mouth. Examples of listed services at our practice are:

• Standard metal fixed brace: £800 per arch.
• Composite veneer: £220 per tooth.
• Home whitening tray kit: £300.

These are separate service fees, not the price of a complete course combining them. See the orthodontic, veneer and prosthodontic and whitening fees and ask what your estimate includes. For implants, use the current implant fee page; an implant, abutment and crown are distinct items.

Finance may be available subject to status, affordability and terms. Medical-Dent acts as a credit broker, not a lender. Check the current finance information before choosing a repayment period.

Contact us to discuss the changes you are considering and receive an individual treatment plan.