A smile makeover is a set of procedures used to enhance the appearance of your smile. In this article, we address a common question: “What to expect from a smile makeover?”
What to Expect From a Smile Makeover
A smile makeover is a comprehensive treatment plan that typically includes several procedures tailored to the patient’s specific goals and needs. The set of procedures differs from patient to patient. In some cases, a smile makeover can involve relatively quick cosmetic procedures, while in others, more time-consuming procedures might be needed. Let’s examine the most common procedures that can be included in a smile makeover.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic procedures for a smile makeover. It can make your teeth up to 8 shades whiter in just one visit to a dental office. Additionally, teeth whitening can help remove stains on the teeth.
Teeth whitening solutions typically contain a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. The procedure can be performed in a dental office with the use of additional tools, such as lasers, or at home, using whitening kits provided by your dentist.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding uses a resin composite, which is applied to those parts of your teeth that need altering. Dental bonding is a versatile procedure and can solve a variety of cosmetic issues:
- Mask stains and discoloration
- Restore chipped or cracked teeth
- Close minor gaps between the teeth
- Alter the shape or the length of teeth
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that is best suited for addressing minor cosmetic issues. The results of bonding can last 3 to 7 years with proper care and maintenance.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells, typically made of porcelain, that cover the entire front side of a tooth. Veneers can solve similar issues to dental bonding and look very natural in the mouth due to the slight translucency of porcelain. Veneers can also be used for elongating the teeth and in “gummy smile” treatments.
If you care for your dental veneers properly, they can last up to 10 years before needing replacement. This procedure is irreversible because the tooth is filed down before the veneer is applied.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are primarily used to protect and reinforce teeth weakened by decay. However, they also have cosmetic benefits, especially if your teeth become discolored or misshapen due to infections.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments are also often used for a smile makeover, as they can take more than a year but provide permanent results. Additionally, orthodontic treatment can be highly beneficial for both your oral and general health, rather than just masking issues with bonding or veneers. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which reduces the risk of cavities. Also, an orthodontic treatment can enhance facial structure and symmetry.
Dental Implants
Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure that replaces a missing tooth. Implants are one of the most sophisticated dental restoration options, and they look very natural in the mouth. However, the entire procedure, from preparation to fully healed dental implants, can take up to six months to complete.
Gum Contouring and Pinhole Technique
Both gum contouring and the pinhole technique are often used in “gummy smile” treatments or to enhance the appearance of receding gums caused by periodontal disease.
Get a Smile Makeover at Tropic Dental Care
If you are considering a smile makeover, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist at Tropic Dental Care today. At our office, we offer a wide range of cosmetic, surgical, and orthodontic procedures, and we will create a personalized treatment plan to best accommodate your goals and needs.
