Cosmetic Dentistry & Smile Makeover

Due to the flexibility of a smile makeover, almost any patient is a candidate for treatment. However, if you have underlying oral health issues such as gum disease, you should seek restorative care before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Your dentist can carefully examine your smile to determine whether you qualify.

For the most part, there is no age limit for cosmetic dental treatments. As long as you have good oral health and can safely undergo the included procedures, you should be able to receive a smile makeover.

Yes, depending on the procedures they wish to include. For example, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends patients wait until age 14 or 15 to whiten their teeth. You can discuss the services you desire with your dentist who can then recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Your treatment plan will depend entirely on your goals for your smile. No two patients have the same cosmetic goals, which is why each makeover is unique.

A wide range of cosmetic procedures are incorporated into smile makeover treatment plans, including porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dental bonding, and gum contouring. Some patients also undergo orthodontic treatment with Invisalign® or traditional braces.

There is no limit to how many treatments you can include in your plan. You may find that two or three procedures is enough to meet your needs. However, your dentist can advise you how best to achieve your aesthetic goals. Keep in mind that sometimes, performing treatments in a particular order will produce the most beautiful results.

The duration of your treatment will depend on the number and type of procedures, as well as the extent of the changes you want to make. Some smile makeovers take as little as one office visit, while others may require several weeks of treatment. For patients who add orthodontic treatment to their smile makeover, the timeline will be longer.

Many dentists integrate advanced technologies into treatment. Virtual smile design software allows dentists to provide a preview of your expected results. Talk to your dentist about the tools that can be used during your smile makeover.

Each smile makeover is unique in scope, meaning the cost of a smile makeover can vary significantly from patient to patient. The overall price of your makeover will depend on the number of procedures included as well as the types of treatments you choose. Other factors can affect your treatment costs, including your geographic location and your dentist’s experience.

In general, insurance does not pay for purely cosmetic work. However, if one or more of your procedures provides a health benefit, your insurance may cover part of your makeover plan.

Most cosmetic dentistry treatments involve little to no discomfort. Some patients notice a feeling of mild pressure during the placement of porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Most patients find local anesthetic is sufficient to keep them comfortable during treatment. However, if you experience dental anxiety, you can discuss sedation options with your dentist.

The most effective way to maintain the results of your smile makeover is to exercise good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily and attending regular office visits can keep your teeth looking strong and vibrant for years to come. You can also minimize dental staining by avoiding dark-colored foods, such as wine, tea, and coffee.

Dentists take protective measures to prevent discomfort during teeth whitening procedures. Typically, a protective gel or rubber shield is used to prevent bleaching agents from damaging gum tissue. The most common bleaching agents used by dentists are approved for use by the American Dental Association, ensuring safety and effectiveness. After the whitening procedure, you may experience minimal tooth sensitivity for a short period of time.

No. In cases involving severe discoloration, teeth whitening may not result in a bright, white smile. Individuals with severe tooth discoloration should consider other options, such as porcelain veneers or composite bonding.

The factors to consider when evaluating a veneer procedure from an esthetic point of view include:

• The color of your teeth.
• The impact of your lifestyle and habits. For example, teeth grinding and clenching may make the veneer more susceptible to chips, cracks, and breaking.