A confident smile can project your best self to the world. A smile makeover combines two or more cosmetic dentistry procedures that improve the overall look of your teeth. During an in-depth consultation, your cosmetic dentist will assess the appearance of your teeth to determine the best procedures to help you achieve your specific goals.
When performed by a reputable cosmetic dentist, a complete smile makeover is a harmonious blend of art and science designed to correct common issues that detract from the aesthetics of your smile.
This comprehensive guide delves into the various ways to customize a smile makeover, explores the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, and identifies ideal moments to embark on this transformative dental process.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments Used for a Smile Makeover
The following dental procedures are listed in the order they should be performed when needed to improve a troubled smile:
1. Orthodontic Treatment
Traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign® dental aligners can straighten teeth with the following issues:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
If you have any of these concerns, orthodontic treatment is the first step to a better smile.
2. Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most comprehensive tooth replacement method, replacing both the tooth root and the visible portion of the teeth. Neglecting to replace tooth roots can lead to jawbone resorption and changes to the shape of your lower face.
- Missing teeth should be replaced and any other oral health problems corrected before proceeding with other cosmetic dental treatments.
If you plan to whiten your teeth, your dentist can brighten your healthy teeth before the crown is color-matched.
3. Professional Teeth Whitening
Having your teeth professionally whitened can dramatically affect your smile by erasing stained dental enamel.
- Professional teeth whitening should be performed before receiving restorations so they can be color-matched to a lighter shade for a uniformly bright smile.
If you are using Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, you can use the last set of aligners with a professional strength whitening gel.
4. Porcelain Restorations
Dental prosthetics like crowns and veneers can repair damaged teeth in the following ways:
- Porcelain crowns repair and protect teeth that are too compromised by decay for fillings and those that are broken or severely cracked. These caps are custom-made and color-matched to your natural or whitened teeth to replicate your once-healthy tooth restore function and provide natural-looking results.
- Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made shells that fit over the front surface of teeth.
This transformative cosmetic treatment addresses issues like:
Permanent, whitening-resistant discoloration, chips and surface cracks, small or misshapen teeth, minor dental misalignment, and gaps.
5. Dental Bonding (Composite Veneers)
Dental bonding uses tooth-colored composite resin to repair structurally damaged teeth.
- The dentist sculpts and shapes the resin, ensuring a seamless integration with the natural teeth.
- This option is an effective alternative to porcelain veneers that cost less and can be performed in one visit. However, composite veneers are not as resistant to staining as porcelain veneers and do not last as long.
Other Cosmetic Dental Treatments
If you have silver fillings and want to replace them with tooth-colored resin, this can be done anytime.
Another treatment many individuals can benefit from is gum contouring. If you have an uneven gum line or excessive gum exposure, gum contouring can reshape and redefine the gum tissue, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Ask your dentist or periodontist about the best time for this procedure, depending on other treatments you intend to receive as a part of your complete smile makeover.
Benefits of a Custom Smile Makeover
A smile makeover offers both visible benefits and improved overall well-being:
- Enhanced confidence: A customized smile makeover goes beyond physical changes by boosting self-esteem and empowering individuals to confidently showcase their radiant smiles.
- Natural-looking results: Skilled cosmetic dentists ensure that the results of a smile makeover are natural-looking. The goal is to enhance aesthetic quality while maintaining the authenticity of your smile.
- Functional improvements: In addition to cosmetic enhancements, certain procedures in a smile makeover, like orthodontics and dental implant placement, can improve bite alignment and overall dental function.
Ideal Times for a Smile Makeover
- Before major life events: Consider a smile makeover before significant events like weddings, graduations, or milestone celebrations. A radiant smile enhances the joy of these special moments.
- Career advancements: A confident smile can positively impact professional interactions. Consider a smile makeover before entering the workforce or important presentations.
- Personal milestones: Whether it’s a personal achievement, a fitness milestone, or any significant accomplishment, a smile makeover is a powerful way to treat yourself and celebrate success.
Scheduling Your Beverly Hills Smile Makeover
Dr. Kevin Sands is a well-respected Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist providing smile makeovers and other services. Speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members to schedule your custom smile makeover consultation by calling (310) 273-0111 today!