TV shows like Extreme Makeover play off a familiar idea. Sometimes, a drastic change can be a good thing. Undergoing a cosmetic teeth makeover can have long reaching benefits, from better oral and overall health to more self confidence.
Undergoing one treatment at a time can actually leave you paying more. You’ll make more trips to the dental office, have to take time off work, and won’t benefit from cost savings of having multiple treatments done at one time.
Combining your treatments into one visit can deliver results quickly, too. If you want to learn more about a total teeth makeover, read on.
This sweet lady had a gum lift and dental crowns that look like natural teeth as part of her teeth makeover.
What is a teeth makeover?
Makeovers can be thought of as a complete overhaul. It’s akin to changing your identity. As we launch into this new decade, many of us are thinking about ways that we can reinvent ourselves.
You might want to start making healthier food choices. Or you may want to start a new relationship. A smile makeover, particularly in the front, could be just the life change you’re looking for. A makeover combines two or more cosmetic and/or restorative procedures. It delivers drastic results and will improve the appearance of your smile. You’ll feel more confident, and it will show!
Let’s take an example. Imagine that you have one missing tooth, a chipped tooth, and all of your teeth are stained from coffee and age. These dental problems can leave you looking older and less healthy than you actually are. To fix these dental issues, a dentist may suggest three options: a dental bridge, tooth veneers, and teeth whitening.
Your teeth can be prepared to receive a dental bridge (for the missing tooth) and veneer (for the chipped tooth) in one visit to our office. On the second visit, your bridge and veneer will be ready. You can have both placed at that time.
Teeth whitening in our office can be scheduled during either visit or you can opt for home whitening.
Who can get a teeth makeover?
Almost anyone in good health who needs more than a single procedure, like teeth whitening or a single crown, will be eligible for a smile makeover. If your mouth is unhealthy, we can help you improve your oral health before beginning a teeth makeover.
Your cosmetic dentist can develop a treatment plan for your unique problems. The plan may include one or more of the following dental treatments:
- Natural looking crowns
- Gum lift
- Teeth veneers
- Dental implants
- Bonding and contouring teeth
- Porcelain or zirconia bridge
- Teeth whitening
- Cosmetic dentures (including partials)
Porcelain Crowns
To address damaged teeth from trauma, closing diastemas, tooth decay, and gum disease, the dentist can fit you with a white porcelain crown that “caps” your tooth. The porcelain will match the shade and shine of surrounding teeth, to blend seamlessly.
The dentist will prepare your tooth for the permanent crown and place a temporary crown over the tooth. Once your porcelain crown is ready, it will be secured with a strong bonding agent. The crown can last for well over 10 years. Many zirconium crowns will last even longer.
Porcelain Veneers
Many patients wonder what are veneers? Getting veneers as part of a teeth makeover can deliver a fast smile improvement. The shells can alter the shade, size, and shape of your tooth.
A few veneers can achieve dramatic results. Veneers can last for many years when properly cared for. Regular visits to our office can ensure that they last. See a recent veneer before and after case.
Cosmetic Bonding and Contouring
Cosmetic Bonding and ContouringBonding can add and reshape the tooth. For cosmetic bonding, we use tooth colored composite resin, the same material used for white fillings. It corrects problems like wide spacing, chips, and oddly shaped teeth.
In some cases, bonding is preferable over veneers because of its lower cost. However, composite bonding may need to be replaced every five to ten years.
Contouring involves removing structure from a tooth. The dentist recommends contouring to smooth sharp or uneven teeth. The procedure may be ideal for evening out teeth, for a softer and more attractive appearance.
Gum Lift
If you have a “gummy smile,” your teeth may look short and stubby. A gum specialist can offer medical advice on gum lifts and gum contouring. A gum lift can raise the gum line and reshape your gum tissue to create better symmetry. The procedure will reveal more tooth enamel, making teeth look longer or taller.
A gum lift does not require that your tooth surface is changed. Many people do not realize that their gums overlap their teeth.This treatment can be completed in just one visit.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening can brighten your smile by several shades. Whitening does not alter the natural structure of your teeth. You can choose instant, in-office teeth whitening or a take-home kit. We’ll explain the benefits of each so that you can decide which is best for your lifestyle and goals.
Try avoiding or minimizing the consumption of foods like wine, coffee, and dark fruits that can stain your teeth. You can also drink through a straw to reduce your risk for staining from beverages.
Benefits of a Teeth Makeover
Not everyone had the benefits of treatments for crooked teeth or dental care when they were young. Maybe you put off doing something special for yourself. Maybe work, friends, and family were put ahead of your personal needs.
It’s time to treat yourself to the many benefits of a teeth makeover. Here’s how the investment could positively affect your life:
Career Advancement
Did you know that an attractive smile conveys friendliness and leadership? Many studies have found that confident smiles are memorable. An attractive smile also boosts self esteem (another important leadership trait).
Maybe you want advancement at work or a new job altogether. Maybe you want to look your best during group meetings. Then do it with a completely new smile that may lead to real career growth.
Personal Fulfillment
How often do you catch yourself looking in the mirror? For better or worse, we are all aware of the appearance of our smile. Having the confidence to smile in public is a gift. We want all of our patients to enjoy this gift.
Improved Oral Health
We don’t always think of cosmetic treatments as improving oral health. But think of this: how much more likely will you be to prioritize the health of your teeth and gums once you love your smile? We take care of the things we value.
Cosmetic treatments are an investment. Making your dental work last requires good oral hygiene habits and regular checkups and cleanings, every six months. Straight teeth are easier to clean.
Schedule Your Teeth Makeover Today
Dr. Fondriest is a respected member and educator for the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He will consider your goals, preferences, budget, and other concerns while working with you. Your treatment plan will be based on what you want, and what’s best for your case.
If multiple cosmetic dental issues make you embarrassed about your smile, isn’t it time to make a change? Don’t let dental problems steal your confidence.
If you are planning dental work, get another opinion from a skilled dental professional. Dr. Fondriest has the skills, experience, and tools to deliver the smile of your dreams. High-end cosmetic dentistry can last for decades.
To schedule your makeover, contact our office online or call (847) 234-0517.