The gap-toothed star of ITV2’s hit television show The Only Way is Essex has turned to a Chigwell cosmetic dentist for help with his smile.

James Argent, known to millions of viewers as Arg, dropped in to meet Ashish Parmar at his Chigwell Rise practice in a bid to keep girlfriend Lydia Bright interested in him.

During the episode, aired last week, Mr Argent was seen asking the dental expert for a look that is “something between Hollywood and Brentwood.”

Mr Parmar, who also appeared in the television series Extreme Makeover said he was pleased to play his bit. He added: “I was amazed at how much equipment and set up was required for filming a short scene.

“As seen on the programme aired, Arg is a bit conscious of his weight, smile and general self confidence.”

About 10 people from the film crew invaded Mr Parmar’s consulting room for half a day of filming on October 22.

It is thought that the ongoing treatment will feature in future episodes of the structured reality show.