Those looking to revamp their smiles have probably encountered the term smile makeover and wondered what it is. The term does not refer to just one procedure but a plan to "makeover" the smile by improving the aesthetic appearance of teeth. A smile makeover can radically differ from patient to patient because each plan is highly customized. If you are considering a smile makeover, here is a closer look at what it involves.
A smile makeover can involve any plan of dental treatment where the goal is to improve the way the smile looks. Sometimes, the plan involves only one or two procedures. Other times, it may involve five or more. The procedures can be purely cosmetic, such as teeth whitening, or restorative procedures, such as dental implant teeth replacements or crowns. Changing metal fillings for tooth-colored ones or undergoing teeth straightening with clear aligners may be part of a person's smile makeover plan.
There is no set way to do a smile makeover plan. During the consultation, the dentist assesses each patient and discusses what they would like to change. The dentist will examine the patient and may take pictures, X-rays, or impressions. Then, based on the patient's dental health, budget, time frame, and other relevant factors, the dentist suggests procedures likely to produce the desired results. Smile makeovers can take a week to several months, depending on what the patient hopes to accomplish.
Here is a look at some popular treatments included in a smile makeover.
This is perhaps the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. Dentists offer teeth whitening services that are safer and more effective than store-bought products. Dentists take great care to make sure the gums and enamel are protected as the teeth are whitened.
For stubborn stains that seem immune to teeth whitening, dental bonding can cover them. In this procedure, a dentist applies tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth and hardens it with a special light. This treatment can not only be used to cover discolorations but also to improve the shape of the teeth and fix chips and other tooth imperfections.
This popular procedure is known for giving people a "movie star" smile. Attaches thin wafer-like shells of porcelain or other tooth-colored material to the fronts of teeth visible when the patient smiles. The result is a bright white smile uniform in tooth color, shape, and size.
Many patients choose to include teeth straightening in their smile makeover plans. It is possible to accomplish this with either braces or clear aligners. Though teeth straightening can add more time to the smile makeover plan, the results are well-aligned smiles patients can enjoy showing off.
Find a dentist experienced in cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers who can suggest the right procedures for you. Teeth whitening does not lighten dental bonding or other dental restorations. Therefore, patients either need to replace those restorations after the teeth whitening or have the teeth whitening performed before the restorations. A skilled dentist will know this and help patients plan accordingly.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Alexandria, VA
Alexandria Old Town Dental is a skilled general and cosmetic dentist who offers customized smile makeover plans. We enjoy helping patients create smiles they are proud to show off. Call us today to learn what a smile makeover can do for you.
Request an appointment or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at 703-763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
Smile makeovers are a blanket term for one or multiple procedures that help you achieve your dream smile. From adjusting the positions or replacing teeth to brightening or repairing them, smile makeovers can transform your teeth and self-confidence. Take a look at a few services typically offered to improve your smile.When the teeth shift, they…
A smile makeover can be the transformative journey many dreams of having. Behind many of those Hollywood-perfect white smiles is a secret: veneers. These custom-crafted shells can effortlessly hide dental imperfections such as gaps, discolorations, and chips. They are designed to blend flawlessly with natural teeth. This cosmetic dentistry method can shift one's smile and…
A smile makeover aims to improve the overall look of your smile. Therefore, it may involve one or a series of treatments to address multiple aspects of your smile's appearance. If there are a number of things you would like to change about how your smile looks, consider a smile makeover. Here is a closer…
Dental emergencies can happen at unexpected times, causing discomfort and anxiety. Knowing when to seek emergency dental care can help preserve the integrity of your oral health. Here are some common situations that may warrant a visit to an emergency dentist.A persistent and severe toothache often indicates an underlying issue that requires immediate medical attention.…
Tooth extractions are common in children's services due to severe decay, infection, crowding, or facial trauma. It is a common misconception that replacing a primary (baby) tooth is unnecessary. Replacing a missing primary tooth impacts a child's overall development more than you think.Primary teeth play a crucial role in children's speech and pronunciation development. They…
