The term "smile makeover" is relatively new, and refers to the combination of multiple cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve the appearance of one's smile. Smile makeovers normally occur over the course of several visits to the cosmetic dentist's office, but with the advent of sedation dentistry many patients are opting to undergo a full smile makeover in one comfortable visit.
Common cosmetic dentistry procedures that may be combined to create a smile makeover include:
Porcelain Veneers
With
porcelain veneers, patients can mask the appearance of teeth that are discolored, cracked, crooked, or broken in just a few visits.
Teeth Whitening
Patients may use at-home or in-office
teeth whitening as the final procedure in a smile makeover. With a final whitening, patients can ensure that their newly-transformed smile is at its dazzling best.
BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatments
Some cosmetic dentists are now certified to use BOTOX® Cosmetic injections to reduce wrinkles and puff lips to lend a more youthful look to patients' smiles.
White Fillings
White fillings, also known as
tooth-colored fillings or composite fillings, are commonly used to replace metal fillings for a more natural appearance and a more durable solution to damaged teeth.
Gum Recontouring
When patients' gums extend too far down their teeth, the result is what is commonly referred to as a "gummy smile". Modern cosmetic dentists can employ laser technology to gently
recontour a patient's gum line, allowing teeth to appear larger and more prominently.
Invisalign
Adult patients who need more than minor realignment possible with porcelain veneers may opt to use the
Invisalign invisible braces system to straighten their teeth gradually and conveniently.
Dental Implants
Patients who are missing one or more teeth can have natural-looking replacement teeth with
dental implants. Dental implants look beautiful for decades, and do not need to be removed for comfortable eating, sleeping, or cleaning.