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Healthy teeth are a priority for your family dentist. But for many patients, appearance is also high on the list. We all want a smile we can be proud of and want to share. Excellent oral health and beautiful teeth go hand in hand. But sometimes, even when you check all the boxes for oral hygiene, you want to give Mother Nature a little boost with cosmetic dentistry. Fortunately, family dentists are becoming experts in cosmetic procedures while focusing on overall oral health. One of the most in-demand services is a “smile makeover,” where your dentist works on several fronts to help you achieve your best smile. But what does a smile makeover include, and how can you make it happen?
What Treatments Are Part of a Smile Makeover?
The best thing about a smile makeover is that it’s 100 percent customized to meet your needs. We can upgrade the shape, color, and alignment and fix damaged or missing teeth. Some of the top treatments in smile makeovers include:
Whitening is hands-down the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. While plenty of over-the-counter products are available, there’s nothing like professional whitening in your dentist’s office to improve your appearance quickly and dramatically. Your dentist can safely use more powerful bleaching agents than at-home treatments, making your teeth several shades whiter in just one treatment. Your dentist can also create customized whitening trays for you to take home to preserve your bright smile.
Straighter teeth for adult patients are more accessible than ever with Invisalign. Not all of us received needed orthodontic treatment as children. But it’s never too late to make a powerful change. The Invisalign system using clear aligners is revolutionizing orthodontic care for adults and giving many of us the straight teeth we’ve always dreamed of. Invisalign uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth without braces. The best thing is your family dentist can take care of your Invisalign treatments–you don’t need to see an orthodontist. Your dentist takes a virtual scan of your teeth and works with you to create a treatment plan using aligners to shift your teeth gradually. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks; treatment usually takes 12 to 18 months.
If you have one or two broken or misshapen teeth, bonding is an inexpensive approach to restoring your smile. Bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair damaged teeth.
If you’re a reality TV fan, you probably know a little about the dental veneers that give many fan favorites gorgeous smiles. Veneers are a life-changing cosmetic treatment that can completely change your smile. They can transform the color, size and shape of your teeth. So they’re perfect for folks with small or short teeth, severe discoloration or multiple broken teeth. Your dentist covers your visible teeth with a veneer made of porcelain or composite material. Your dentist has to reshape and remove some enamel from your existing teeth to fit the veneers, so the process is not reversible. You’ll need to commit to caring for your veneers and (in some cases) restoring them in the future. However, high-quality porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years.
If you have a missing tooth or need an extraction, ask your dentist about dental implants. New technology allows dental professionals to replace your tooth and root with a crown placed on a titanium root. Usually, your family dentist works with an oral surgeon to make the implant process successful. An oral surgeon will extract your tooth and implant the metal root. Then your dentist completes the restoration with a natural-looking crown.
How Long Does A Smile Makeover Take?
Each patient’s needs are unique, and so is their timeline. However, a smile makeover is a multi-step process that can take several months to a year. But patients confirm it’s worth the wait. For example, Invisalign can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Implants involve several phases and can take several months and visits to your oral surgeon and family dentist. Veneers take several visits to prepare your teeth, create molds and place the veneers. But bonding can be done in just one or two visits. When you consult your family dentist about your smile makeover goals, he’ll develop a treatment plan and timeline to meet your needs.
Can I Get A Smile Makeover From My Family Dentist?
Family dentists are typically trained in cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers. One of the best things about working with your family dentist for cosmetic procedures is that you have a partner who knows your dental history and will always put your oral health first. At Best Smile Dental, we understand that a healthy mouth and a terrific smile go hand in hand. But many patients want to take those extra steps to improve their appearance. If you’re embarrassed by your smile, have missing or damaged teeth, or simply want to upgrade to a whiter, brighter smile, let’s talk. We’ll discuss your goals and budget and determine what we can achieve. Everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile–and it’s never too late to get started.
