For many men and women, a makeover is the ultimate dream come true. However, while a new haircut or a wardrobe do-over is great for your appearance, nothing offers more dramatic results than a smile makeover. Most cosmetic dentists offer this treatment, which allows you to pick two or more cosmetic procedures to achieve the ultimate smile. Though many procedures are available, these are some of the most popular and effective to include in a smile makeover:
1. Teeth Whitening
Whitening your teeth brightens your smile and gives your confidence a huge boost. Cosmetic dentists typically offer two types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home treatments. During in-office treatment, your dentist will cover your teeth with a powerful whitening gel, which breaks down the stains. Some dentists will activate this gel with a specially designed light. If you choose at-home treatment, you will receive custom made whitening trays, which you will fill with gel and wear for 30 minutes to an hour every day for up to two weeks. Both treatments are quite effective and can have a huge impact on your appearance.
2. Veneers
If you have severe stains that do not respond to whitening treatment, or if your teeth have blemishes such as chips or cracks, veneers may be a great addition to your smile makeover. By applying thin porcelain shells to the front of your teeth, your dentist can cover up these flaws and provide you with a whiter, straighter, more even smile.
3. Dental Bonding
Dental bonding offers many of the same benefits as veneers. By applying dental resin to the surface of your teeth, your dentist can fill in chips and indentations, whiten teeth, and even change the shape of irregular teeth. Although bonding does not look quite as lifelike as veneers, used strategically, it is nearly undetectable. Bonding is often a good alternative for smile makeover patients who are watching their budget.
4. Subtle Orthodontia
In the past, straightening your teeth meant dealing with embarrassing metal brackets and wires - often for years. Today, cosmetic dentists offer highly effective yet discreet orthodontic care. Treatments such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® use clear aligner trays to gently straighten teeth and correct misaligned bites. By including orthodontic treatment in your smile makeover, you can vastly improve your appearance and dental health for years to come.
5. Gum Reshaping
When you are evaluating your smile, your teeth are not the only factors; your gums also have a huge impact on your appearance. Disproportionately large gums can make your teeth look small and can contribute to an appearance of advanced age. Similarly, ragged or crooked gums can make you look older and can detract from healthy, straight teeth. Many cosmetic dentists offer gum reshaping, in which they use a surgical laser to remove excess gum tissue and straighten uneven gum lines. If you have a receding gum line, you may also want to consider tissue grafting.
Find a Cosmetic Dentist
The possibilities for a smile makeover are endless. To learn more about smile makeovers, contact a cosmetic dentist in your area. During your consultation, you can discuss which procedures will best meet your cosmetic goals, dental health, and budget. No matter which procedures you choose, you are sure to achieve a beautiful new smile!