The desire for an attractive smile goes beyond the superficial. A smile makeover not only has aesthetically pleasing results, but it can also lead to better oral health. If you are considering a smile makeover, there are some things to consider before you proceed. Your dentist will analyze the current state of your teeth and gums and let you know if you are a good candidate for certain procedures. Whether your goal is whiter, brighter teeth or you need an entirely new alignment and shape to your smile, a makeover can help you reach your vision.
What Makes a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover? Although a smile makeover may be an option for any patient the ideal candidate will have few structural and oral health concerns and have a primary goal of cosmetic correction. If you have considerable dental health concerns these problems will need to be addressed before the cosmetic procedures can proceed. In general, patients who have tooth discoloration, cracks, chips, missing teeth, misshapen teeth, or gum recession are all candidates for procedures that improve the look of the smile. An evaluation by your dentist provides you with more information about which procedures are available for your particular concerns. Your dentist will also make recommendations based on the state of your teeth, your end goals, and your budget.
What Are Smile Makeover Procedure Options?
The procedures you receive during a smile makeover depending on the condition of your teeth and gums and the results you are seeking. Your dentist guides you through the entire process and makes sure your results are as close to your vision as possible.
- Teeth whitening. A whiter smile can be achieved through several procedures. If you have old silver-colored fillings, these can be replaced by ones that are colored to match your teeth. The teeth can be bleached with a professional whitening solution and any visible old dental work may need to be adjusted to match. When whitening does not produce results or cases are more severe, another option is to cover the existing teeth with porcelain veneers.
- Teeth straightening. If your teeth are misaligned or crooked teeth straightening is an option, whether using traditional braces or invisible tray systems. Once the teeth have been straightened, whitening finishes the new look.
- Teeth replacement. Teeth that are damaged or poorly sized for your mouth can be covered using porcelain veneers. Modern veneers are thin, so more of the natural tooth can be retained. If you have missing teeth or teeth that are severely damaged and need to be removed, they can be replaced using bridges, dentures, or dental implants.
- Gum correction. Patients with periodontal disease or receding gums may need to have additional procedures performed on the gums before more corrective dentistry work can be completed. Gum procedures include rebuilding and contouring.
How Can You Maintain Your Smile Makeover Results?
Part of gaining a new smile is maintaining the results once the work is done. Some dental procedures produce results that do not need any more care than natural teeth. Brushing and flossing remain vital to dental health, but you should use a non-abrasive form of fluoride toothpaste if you have any cosmetic dental work. Using mouth rinses can also help with oral hygiene, but the formula should not contain alcohol since this can break down restorative materials. Avoiding foods and beverages that stain the teeth can keep your smile makeover looking fresh and healthy long-term.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have issues with your smile and are considering a smile makeover the next step is to schedule a consultation with a dentist to go over your options. The team at Ingenious Dentistry is ready to answer any questions you have about dental procedures and will help you reach your dental goals, so call (713) 795-5905 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment.
