If you feel self-conscious about multiple aspects of your smile, a complete smile makeover may be what you need to regain your confidence. Smile makeovers include two or more cosmetic dental procedures, creating the look you have always wanted.
Considerations for Smile Makeovers
1. Keep it Natural
Rather than going to extremes with your makeover, your dentist may encourage you to stay with a more subtle, natural look. For example, restoring your original healthy smile will produce better results than over-whitening.
2. Address Oral Health First
Smile makeovers work best on healthy teeth. If you need to complete restorative work or have untreated tooth decay and gum disease, address these issues with your dentist before starting the process of a smile makeover.
3. Consider Procedures that Have Multiple Uses
Veneers and bonding are perfect examples of multi-purpose cosmetic procedures. Veneers can cover chipped, misshapen, gapped, and discolored teeth and correct a slightly misaligned smile, while bonding can simultaneously cover many aesthetic flaws.
Components of a Smile Makeover
Your dentist will help you choose two or more of the following cosmetic dental procedures to brighten your smile:
Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening can safely and efficiently remove years of stains. In-office whitening gives fast, dramatic results, while at-home professional whitening is more gradual but equally effective.
To whiten your teeth in the office, the dentist uses a strong carbamide peroxide gel and activates it with a specialized laser. The safe and effective treatment produces immediate results.
At-home whitening involves using a set of custom trays filled with professional whitening gel. The dentist adjusts the solution's strength so it is safe to use at home. You will wear the trays for the prescribed length of time each day, and you will notice a gradual whitening effect.
Invisalign
Invisalign® provides a discreet, comfortable way to straighten your teeth. It is an excellent choice for adults who do not want the extra attention drawn by standard braces.
Veneers
Veneers are slim sheets of porcelain or composite material that the dentist applies to the forward surfaces of your teeth. They can replace several cosmetic procedures at once.
Additional Services
Many restorative dental procedures can also have a cosmetic purpose:
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Implants
Frequently Asked Questions About Smile Makeovers
Is teeth whitening bad for your teeth?
Teeth whitening is safe and effective when applied by a professional. Purchasing strong whitening gels online and using them without proper supervision can be dangerous for your gums and enamel.
How long does Invisalign take to work?
Generally, Invisalign takes about 12 to 18 months, though it may be faster or slower in certain situations.
Call Total Dental Care
We would gladly help you plan your smile's transformation. Our dentists will help you select the procedures that would benefit you most. Call our Germantown, MD, office at 240-813-9111 to schedule a consultation today.