Is A Smile Makeover A Good Option For You?
What exactly is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover involves any treatments that we perform to give you a better, more natural-looking smile that you will be happy with. It can involve several different procedures individualized based on the specific patient, but our ultimate goal is for you to leave with a smile you are confident in.
Are smile makeovers considered cosmetic or restorative dentistry?
Patients often ask if smile makeovers are considered cosmetic or restorative dentistry. They actually involve a bit of both. Depending on the condition of a patient's mouth, we'll look at different treatment options to restore a full, healthy smile. One of our goals is for your smile to look great and last as long as possible, which means ensuring the function of your bite is correct so that all treatments in your mouth endure long-term.
What are the goals of a smile makeover?
The main goals for patients are to have teeth that look as good as possible, boosting confidence and self-esteem. As a dentist, it's also crucial to ensure that your teeth function correctly, particularly the back teeth, which handle about 80% of chewing. If we focus only on the front teeth, they may break quickly. I want to ensure the back teeth are touching properly during eating, so nothing chips and everything lasts as long as possible.
Who would be a good candidate for a smile makeover?
This depends on the individual situation. Typically, we're looking at patients who are about 25 years or older. For younger patients, we often address smile issues through orthodontic treatments like Invisalign or braces. For older patients or those not interested in orthodontic treatment, we can explore if a smile makeover is suitable for them.
What are the procedures that are usually involved in a smile makeover?
Common procedures in a smile makeover include veneers, which are porcelain covers for the front teeth. Other procedures could involve full crowns on more broken-down back teeth, dental implants for missing teeth, or bridges to fill gaps between missing teeth. We might also consider dentures, such as an all-on-x denture supported by implants. We conduct an exam to determine what's right for your situation and discuss the options from there.
Will I need anesthesia during my smile makeover?
Patients often worry about needing anesthesia during a smile makeover. Depending on the procedure, we would make that decision, but most of the time, yes, a little anesthesia is necessary. It's important to me that you're comfortable during treatment. I know the needle isn't everyone's favorite, but it's preferable to experiencing pain during the procedure. We administer it as gently as possible to minimize discomfort.
How long will it take to heal from a smile makeover?
The healing time varies depending on the procedure, but most often, it's a few days. Your gums might be a little tender afterward, but things heal quickly in the mouth, allowing you to resume normal activities soon.
Can I resume regular brushing or flossing after I've done my smile makeover?
We will cover brushing and flossing with you during treatment. In the temporary phase, flossing might be challenging if we connect some teeth. However, we encourage continued brushing to maintain oral health.
Once the procedure is complete, we want you back to regular brushing and flossing. If you have a specific procedure, like a bridge, there might be different flossing techniques, which we will explain to you.
If you’re searching for quality dental care, we’re here to help. Call (204) 817-6768 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is committed to keeping your smile healthy.