MY SMILE JOURNEY – SIGNATURE JJS DENTISTRY PORCELAIN VENEERS [PART 1/2]

JJS Dentistry in Cape Town, led by the amazing Dr. JJ Serfontein, is a premier dental practice and leader in cosmetic and clinical dentistry with state-of-the-art dental technology specialising in dental surgery, cosmetic dentistry, and general dentistry.

MY SMILE JOURNEY – SIGNATURE JJS DENTISTRY VENEERS

I had beautiful sets of teeth growing up however, not visiting a dentist on a regular basis, even though I had a special love relationship with sweets, biscuits, and chocolates, contributed to me having discoloured and cracked teeth, including three decayed wisdom teeth. To make matters worse, one of my two front gold crowns fell off, and I never dared to go to the dentist to put it back. I learned to ignore that horrible-looking tooth and used home remedies to try to whiten it, but doing so only ate away the enamel on most of my front teeth. So, I’ve had to live with my terrible front teeth and painful wisdom teeth for the last two decades of my life; therefore, I had to learn to talk without lifting my top lip to cover off my front upper row of teeth. But regrettably, over time, doing this also affected my speech and the way I pronounced certain words.

As a travel and lifestyle content creator and destination host, I frequently have to do interviews and be in front of the camera for certain brand campaigns. As time went on, I lost all confidence, which made hosting guests and doing presentations harder. I still wonder how I pulled off my segment on Inside Africa, a CNN TV program that introduces innovators, entrepreneurs, tech trailblazers, and artistic visionaries shaping the future of the African continent. This led to the cancellation of meetings and reservations for hosting and television interviews. I was slowly becoming a shadow of what I used to be, and it was a sad moment every time I looked at myself in the mirror.

Every summer brings a plethora of social media campaigns and events that I have to participate in, and I usually get nervous, especially at this time of year. There are tons of photo and video opportunities during these summertime campaigns and events, so being social and in the company of people is a must. When summer campaigns and events are underway, everyone wants their smiles to be as bright and cheery as the season itself, but that was not an easy thing for me to do.

I dreaded going to the dentist because I was embarrassed, so my teeth kept decaying and losing all of their enamel too. My situation worsened when I found out I had to have three of my wisdom teeth taken out because they were painful and really decayed. As I write this article, I’m glad to reassure you that there’s no need to be concerned when you have found the greatest and qualified dentist performing the procedure. I’m grateful that the latest cosmetic dental innovations and the expertise of Dr. JJ Serfontein have made it possible for people like me to have functional, picture-perfect smiles without feeling any pain.

In this article, I explore the dental cosmetic procedure I had done in the past three weeks, why I did it, its benefits, and my thoughts on my new smile. Part 2/2 will cover my post veneers lifestyle, speech, if I’m experiencing any sensitivity, the type of food and/or drinks I’ve stopped or started consuming, and what bad habits I had to let go of to maintain my new teeth.

PROCEDURE OR TREATMENT PERFORMED

• 1 x Lower gold crown removal
• 2 x Professional airflow cleans
• 10 x Upper ceramic restorations (veneers)
• 1 x Lower ceramic restoration (veneer)
• 1 x Session of lower teeth professional in-chair whitening
• 3 x Wisdom teeth extractions (2 left and 1 right-hand side)

[Click here to see the transformation on Instagram]

During the initial consultation, Dr. JJ Serfontein evaluated my entire dental health and recommended the best course of action to get the desired results. This important step is highly recommended and cannot be skipped. He did this by utilising his industry experience, cutting-edge dental technology, and innovative 3D scans.

TEETH WHITENING D65®

A week after the consultation, Chantelle performed an in-office D65® dental teeth whitening procedure to brighten my discoloured teeth to try to bring out my natural teeth colour so that my veneers would match the bottom set. A dental consultation is also required for this procedure in order for her to determine whether you are a candidate for the teeth-whitening procedure. If she detects any severe issues, she will need to address them before proceeding with the teeth-whitening procedure.

As explained to me by Chantelle, the Oral Hygienist, it’s important to not skip this teeth-whitening procedure if you consider installing veneers. Over time, teeth can also become discoloured or stained due to various factors like black coffee, red wine, curries, and smoking. Whitening your teeth is a great way to improve the appearance of your smile and get rid of these tough stains. The results are instant, and whiter teeth boost your self-esteem.

At JJS Dentistry, they use D65® professional teeth-whitening dental products. The process only takes an hour or two, divided into 15-minute sessions, and it can be a great option for anyone who wants a whiter smile in a short period of time. D65® is a range of luxury dental products and treatments for use both in-chair and at home, and are available at JJS Dentistry. However, when you choose the in-office tooth whitening system, your treatment will be completed safely using stronger whitening agents and a specialised blue LED light, leaving you with instantly noticeable improvements in the brightness of your teeth. With a range of solutions tailored to your unique needs, D65® dental offers you a luxurious experience and results you can instantly see and feel. Please note that this procedure cannot go beyond your own natural colour.

SIGNATURE JJS VENEERS – THE PATHWAY TO A FLAWLESS SMILE

I returned to JJS Dentistry the next day to have my front bottom gold crown taken out and to have my ten upper teeth prepared for ceramic restorations (veneers). The preparation included slightly shaving off the top layer of my teeth, taking impressions, and fitting temporary teeth that resembled my old set. I returned two days later to have the temporary teeth removed and to fit-test my new veneers. Once we were satisfied with the fitting, length, and colour, Dr. JJ Serfontein permanently cemented my porcelain veneers for good. In other words, my new smile was completed within three days after the teeth-whitening procedure.

My veneers are porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surface and part of the back of the teeth. In my case, Dr. JJ Serfontein covered the back of my teeth as well because they were chipped and had already lost all of their enamel. See why the consultation is important? Every person has a unique problem, and veneers are tailor-made. Veneers are great for treating teeth that are uneven, chipped, broken, or have severe discolouration. They are stain-resistant, have a natural appearance, are custom-made to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth, and with proper care, porcelain veneers can last up to fifteen years.

During the veneer preparation and placement process, I did not feel any significant pain or discomfort. However, it took around two weeks for my mouth to adjust to the changes that had been made, which included learning how to speak clearly and pronounce letters like “S,” “F,” and “T”. For a few days, my teeth also felt a little sensitive and bulky, but that was just a temporary feeling. It has been three weeks, and my mouth feels almost normal again. I don’t think about the teeth or what people will think about them anymore, something I struggled with in the beginning.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I also had three painful and decaying wisdom teeth that needed to be extracted. I returned to see Dr. JJ Serfontein a week later so he could examine my bite and extract all three wisdom teeth. I was under local anaesthesia but conscious during the process and could hear everything that was happening in my mouth, and I experienced no pain during or after the extractions. I was expecting to experience pain or have a swollen face when I woke up the next day, but everything was alright, and I even attended a product launch event.

DENTAL BONDING ON THE BOTTOM TEETH

A week later I went back to JJS Dentistry for Dr JJ Serfontein to examine the bite again, extraction sites and do composite resin bonding on my five bottom teeth. Upon thorough examination, Dr. JJ Serfontein felt that my bottom teeth were still healthy and dental bonding was not necessary at this stage. Unlike my upper veneers, composite bonding involves little to no shaving of the teeth or enamel. This procedure is also less costly than ceramic or porcelain veneers, which could cost anything between R4 500.00 to R7 000.00 per tooth in South Africa.

Dr JJ Serfontein did not only give me a beautiful smile but he changed my life, and I will forever be grateful. I have also learned how to properly take care of my teeth and floss, something I had never done or considered doing in my life.

Summer is a season of brightness, warmth, and showing off your beautiful smile around family and friends, and while taking pictures to capture those special moments. By taking care of your teeth or investing in cosmetic dentistry, you are not only investing in a beautiful smile but also in renewed confidence.

But don’t just take my word for it, get in touch with Dr. JJ Serfontein at JJS Dentistry in Cape Town or Durbanhill practice to find out how they can help you transform your smile and help you gain back your confidence.

Please feel free to leave a comment below with any questions you would like me to address about my personal experience, and I will do my best to respond. However, technical questions will be referred directly to JJS Dentistry.

CAPE TOWN JJS DENTISTRY CONTAC DETAILS (DR JJ SERFONTEIN)

Waterway House North (Battery Park)
3 Dock Road
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001

Telephone: +2721 424 5172 OR +2721 422 2443

E-mail: info@jjteeth.co.za

Website: www.jjteeth.co.za

Instagram: @jjs_dentistry

ABOUT DR JJ SERFONTEIN

Dr. JJS Serfontein is the founder and owner of JJS Dentistry with practices in Cape Town and Durbanville. With decades of experience as a Dental Surgeon and Cosmetic Dentist, Dr Serfontein is entirely dedicated to creating the ultimate patient experience. He merges art and science to craft dental outcomes that restore confidence and function.

Dr JJ Serfontein believes that a healthy, beautiful smile can truly change your life and boost your confidence. Having helped patients locally and internationally including me achieve dream smiles through smile makeovers and quality dental treatments, Dr JJ Serfontein continues to be a beacon of dental excellence in South Africa.

When you step into JJS Dentistry, expect world-class healthcare with dental services customised to your needs. Their friendly and professional team is always ready to welcome you with open arms and provide a comfortable and relaxing environment making you feel like part of the family.

Dr. JJ Serfontein is a member of the following organisations:

• Certified member of DSD (Digital Smile Design)
• Member of SADA (South African Dental Association)
• Member of ITI (International Team of Implantology)
• Member of ESCD (European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry)
• Member of HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa)
• Serves on the executive committee of SAAAD (South African Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry)

DENTAL TREATMENTS OFFERED AT JJS DENTISTRY

1. SMILE MAKEOVERS

At JJS Dentistry, smile makeovers are their speciality. They know the power a smile holds: It’s how you are perceived and forms a major part of your identity. That’s why they make every effort to give their patients their dream smiles. From teeth whitening to dental bonding and restorations to orthodontics, they do it all. Reach out and find out how they can be of service to you.

2. GENERAL DENTISTRY

Prevention is the hallmark of dentistry – and it’s no different at JJS Dentistry. Their primary dental care is an essential part of oral healthcare, encompassing a wide array of dental services to prevent, diagnose, and treat. From routine dental check-ups to advanced root canals, their friendly and skilled team is ready to walk your oral journey with you.

3. ORAL HYGIENE

Oral hygiene goes beyond keeping your breath smelling fresh. At JJS Dentistry, they are big advocates for oral hygiene education and professional care. Their professional teeth cleanings help keep your teeth free from plaque and tartar, while simultaneously preventing a range of dental health problems. The best practice is to ensure you maintain your smile with a professional oral cleaning every six months.

4. COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Their cosmetic dentistry services are designed to keep your unique aesthetic goals in mind. Dr JJ Serfontein firmly believes in the marriage of art and technology to create functional, beautiful, confident smiles. Whether you’re looking for a smile boost with custom veneers or need a more advanced restoration like a dental implant, they are ready to assist you in achieving your best smile.

5. SAME-DAY DENTISTRY

Who says quality can’t be convenient? At JJS Dentistry, they know just how busy life can get, so they pride themselves on offering same-day dentistry appointments for certain procedures to help you get the care you need in the shortest amount of time. Crowns, veneers, and other restorations are made easier and more flexible with our advanced technology.

6. ORTHODONTICS

Straighten your teeth and align your bite with their premium orthodontic services. At JJS Dentistry, you get the benefits of a functional and beautiful smile. When your teeth and bite are aligned, it makes your oral hygiene easier to maintain and prevents common dental health issues. Their various offerings include clear aligners, clear braces, and traditional metal braces, so there’s something for everyone.

7. DENTAL IMPLANT

Missing teeth can impact many aspects of your health, including your self-esteem. With their quality dental implant restorations, they can provide a fixed, permanent solution to missing teeth that promotes dental health and a happy smile! Enjoy the advantages of this seamless dental solution and restore your natural smile. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back.

8. TMJ AND BRUXISM

Waking up with jaw pain is a common sign of bruxism, a common stress-related condition. With bruxism, you grind your teeth when you sleep and sometimes unknowingly when you are awake. This can wear down the surface of the teeth, cause headaches, and lead to more serious dental health problems. However, with the help of experienced dental surgeon Dr. JJ Serfontein, they can provide prompt treatment to alleviate these symptoms.

9. VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS

For those on the go, they are excited to introduce their virtual consultations. This service is a dedicated digital process to accommodate patients unable to make in-person appointments or who are from another part of the world. Follow their straightforward process to find out if you are a candidate, and ensure you have your dental history and X-rays on hand.

10. CAPE TOWN JJS DENTISTRY CONTAC DETAILS (DR. JJ SERFONTEIN)

Waterway House North (Battery Park)
3 Dock Road
V&A Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001

Telephone: +2721 424 5172 OR +2721 422 2443

E-mail: info@jjteeth.co.za

Website: www.jjteeth.co.za

Instagram: @jjs_dentistry

DISCLAIMER

This article may contain affiliate links. I may receive compensation if you make a booking through the links on this blog post but it won’t cost you anything extra.

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