What is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is the name used to describe a combination of different dental procedures that are designed to improve and enhance the esthetic appearance of your teeth in order to restore your confidence in your smile. Despite being carried out for cosmetic reasons, many of the treatments included in a smile makeover can also benefit the overall function of the teeth too. 
 

Procedures included in a smile makeover

There are many different cosmetic treatments that can potentially be combined to create your personalized makeover treatment plan. Some of the most common include the following:
 

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental treatment with countless procedures being carried out across the U.S. every year. There are many reasons why teeth become discolored and stained, from being affected by the colorings in the food that we eat to staining caused by nicotine, coffee and red wine. There are many products that claim to be able to whiten your teeth, but only professional whitening performed by a cosmetic dentist can produce the exceptional and long-lasting results that patients are looking for.

Teeth whitening is simple and doesn’t require anesthetic. Special guards are placed into your mouth to protect your gums, lips and tongue from the bleach which is then applied to your teeth by your dentist. A special light is then used trigger the chemical reaction that will lighten your teeth. The number of treatments you will need will depend on the original color of your teeth and the shade of whiteness that you want to achieve.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular alternative to whitening. They hide imperfections on the surface of the teeth with each fingernail-type porcelain cover designed specifically for each individual tooth. They may look very thin and fragile, but they are very durable and resistant to staining. They are attached to the outer face of the teeth by filing down a little of the natural enamel and placing the correct covering over the top, securing it with adhesive.

Porcelain veneers can be used to cover stains, chips, cracks and other superficial damage. They can also be used to cover small gaps between the teeth and add height and thickness to them to make them appear more uniform.

Porcelain Crowns

Crowns are best known as a type of restoration, but they also serve a cosmetic purpose since they are effective at covering unattractive teeth. They are bespoke, created specifically for each patient meaning that they can be made in the perfect shape, size and color to cover your bad tooth and replace it with a natural and discreet alternative.
 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a very straightforward and simple treatment that many people also opt for as an alternative to teeth whitening or veneers. Like whitening, bonding is completely non-invasive. The process involves a special resin which is placed onto the outer enamel of the teeth and then molded to cover imperfections and create an attractive and uniform appearance. This resin is then hardened using a special light, and polished so that it looks just like your natural teeth.

Orthodontics

If your teeth are crooked, gapped, twisted or overlapping, or if your teeth don’t come together properly when you close your mouth, your cosmetic dentist may recommend that you consider orthodontic treatment. This treatment focuses on improving the alignment of your teeth and bite, giving you a smile that is not only more attractive, but that is also healthier and less likely to develop dental problems. You may be able to choose between conventional braces and a clear aligner solution like Invisalign or Clear Correct and your dentist will give you more specific advice and information about your options.

Dental implants

Dental implants are an innovative and effective treatment for replacing missing teeth. Implants use a titanium post secured into the jawbone to act as the foundation for the solution. A porcelain crown forms the visible part of the tooth. Since they are anchored directly into the bone, implants are considered to be the strongest and most durable of all tooth loss solutions and this also makes them the most natural in appearance.

If you would like more information about what is involved in a smile makeover, or if you would like to find out what treatments could help you to achieve the smile of your dreams, don’t hesitate to call us at (770) 830-3700 and speak to our expert team.