A Gorgeous Grin

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SMILE MAKEOVER

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Living in the age of selfies and video calls, most of us aim to improve our smiles and reap all the benefits. Your smile also affects how you feel about yourself. A beautiful smile can enhance social interactions, professional opportunities, and happiness. Your smile also affects how you feel about yourself. Most people report increased confidence and improved self-esteem after cosmetic dental procedures.

Before diving into this life-changing journey, it’s essential to understand the process and options to ensure you achieve the best results.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR GOALS

Conveying a clear vision of what you want will help your dentist create a personalized treatment plan that meets your expectations. Are you looking to whiten your teeth, straighten them, fix gaps or chips, correct a gummy smile, replace old crowns with metal showing, or address a missing tooth? Perhaps you’re interested in taking on a few of these concerns. Each of us is different. Sometimes, only minor adjustments like teeth whitening and a few low-prep veneers are needed, while others might require more extensive work, such as orthodontics and restorative procedures.

ASSESSING YOUR ORAL HEALTH

A healthy foundation is essential for a successful and long-lasting smile makeover. Before performing any procedures, expect your dentist to evaluate your overall oral health, checking for issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental problems. Your dentist may recommend a thorough cleaning and other necessary treatments to ensure your mouth is in optimal condition before your smile makeover begins.

EXPLORING TREATMENT OPTIONS

Smile makeovers include a variety of treatments, from simple to more involved procedures. In-office laser teeth whitening is a popular choice for those looking to brighten their smile several shades. Customized porcelain veneers can correct discoloration, uneven tooth lengths, minor misalignment, chips, and gaps. Crowns address a variety of concerns, including broken- and worn- down teeth. Laser dentistry addresses an uneven gum line or corrects a gummy smile. Orthodontics, such as braces or clear aligners, straighten teeth over time, providing a more uniform appearance and an aligned bite. If you have missing teeth, dental implants may be used instead of a bridge because they can look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Discussing the pros and cons of different options with your dentist will help you understand the best approach for your needs. Often, a combination of treatments uniquely tailored to your needs yields the best results and a smile you’ll want to show off for years to come. If extensive work is needed, ask your dentist to develop a phased approach to upgrade your smile that fits your schedule and budget.

PLANNING AND SCHEDULING

Understanding your treatment timeline will help you plan accordingly and set realistic expectations for when you’ll see final results. For example, in-office teethwhitening may be completed in as little as a single visit. In contrast, porcelain veneers typically require two or more office visits over two or three weeks. Somecrowns involve only one appointment if your dentist uses same-day crown technology. Otherwise, they usually require two trips to the dental office and wearing a temporary in between.

MAINTAINING YOUR NEW SMILE

Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and possibly wearing a retainer if you have had orthodontic work are all part of keeping your smile in top condition and preserving results. Your dentist will provide specific instructions tailored to your treatments, helping your results to remain beautiful and long-lasting.

Questions to Ask During Your Smile Consultation

Cosmetic dentistry is an investment. Take your time to prepare and come ready to discuss your goals openly and to ask questions when consulting with a cosmetic dentist. This will help you make an informed decision. Here are a few key questions to consider.

• What experience and training do you have in cosmetic dentistry?

• Can you show me before-and-after photos of your previous patients?

• What treatment options do you recommend for my specific concerns and why?

• How do you ensure patient comfort during cosmetic dental procedures?

• What are the potential risks and benefits of the treatments you recommend?

• How long can I expect the results of the cosmetic procedure to last?

• Are there any special maintenance requirements or precautions I need to take to ensure the longevity of the results?

• What materials and technologies do you use in cosmetic dentistry?

• How do you stay current with the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry?