Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. A smile makeover can radically change the entire persona of an individual , boost confidence, increase likeability and make you stand out in a crowd. A smile makeover can vary significantly from patient to patient, from being a simple as a tooth whitening and minor reshaping, to a complete replacement with ceramic restorations. Every smile makeover is tailor made and designed individually for the patient. Choosing the right doctor for a comprehensive and transparent treatment planning as well as execution of the treatment to deliver the most perfect smile suitable for you is one of the most important decisions you can make.

This article will provide a simple summary of what a smile makeover is, the benefits, the various types of makeovers, the procedures involved, the time taken, the expected longevity and the price point of each type of treatment plan.

THE START OF A SMILE MAKEOVER

A smile makeover starts from the moment a patient walks into the dental clinic, notes are made from the patients existing smile, speech pattern, tooth visibility and self-consciousness. Apart from this, a diagnostic model is made of the existing teeth, as well as records of the bite relation, as well measurements of the visibility during speech, rest and smiling. The amount of space available for addition of material without it interfering in the natural working of the mouth is also determined. Once all this data is collected, the dentist will design a new smile either digitally or on the diagnostic cast, following the right proportioning between the teeth and the gums. This helps in making the patient envision the possible outcome as well suggest personalisation without jumping into the plan on faith alone. Once satisfied with the design, the dentist can layout the steps and procedures needed for reaching the final outcome.  They usually entail modifying the tooth or gum surface and, in some instances, interior elements of your teeth, as well addition of various restorative materials best suited for the scenario.

THE REASONS YOU MAY NEED A SMILE MAKEOVER

A smile makeover can be indicated for a multitude of reasons, from tooth defects, tooth damage and tooth failure or loss. Apart from this a general asymmetry of the components of a smile without a specific aetiology, but just a patient’s own preference can also qualify for a smile makeover. A smile makeover is an elective procedure to improve the aesthetics of a smile. It is the job of the dentist to help educate and help the patient find the best possible outcome, even if it means no treatment. Some specific reasons why a person may need a teeth makeover include;

• Teeth that are discolored or dull
• Crowded teeth, or flared teeth
• Bite misalignment
• Teeth that have been chipped or have gaps between them
• worn-out teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Dentures that are crowded
• tooth decay
• multiple missing teeth

TYPES OF SMILE MAKEOVER PROCEDURES?

Smile makeovers consist of several procedures. Let us take a more detailed look at some of the fantastic techniques you could get if you opt for a teeth makeover.

• Teeth Bleaching: Bleaching is a relatively effective way to achieve exceptional results. Professional whitening procedures are superior to over-the-counter solutions and can produce safer, more apparent results. Concentrated whitening agents can help lighten the shade of your teeth in 1 to 3 sittings, without any procedures done to your teeth.
• Crown lengthening and depigmentation: this professional procedure is most helpful for patients who think the have smaller teeth and gummy smiles, leading to a transformation of the smile by contouring the gums, and once again no tooth modification is done.
• Dental Resin Bonding: Adhesive dentistry or dental bonding procedures, help change the form and shape of the teeth by the addition of tooth colored materials over the tooth surface. These involve very minimal change to the tooth structure and is a conservative yet very effective makeover that can change discoloration as well as asymmetry.

• Dental Crown: Dental crowns are custom made prosthesis that not only change the look of the teeth but are well equipped for long term function, in extensively damaged teeth, this option restores the smile as well as the chewing capability of the patient

• Veneers: Veneers are an excellent option for a complete smile makeover. They are perfect middle ground between crowns and composite restorations, with excellent aesthetic results, blending seamlessly with your mouth at the same time, not needing a lot of tooth modification, maintaining a majority of the chewing capability as is, good longevity.

• Dental implants: these are the most accepted as well clinically proven replacement for missing teeth, allowing the utilization of the gums and bone for support without needing any support from healthy teeth, all the while restoring missing segments as well as chewing ability back to normal.

REASONS WHY A TEETH MAKEOVER TREATMENTS CAN RUIN YOUR SMILE

Even though smile makeover treatments can give you a gleaming and faultless smile, it is essential to be aware that if these procedures are not performed correctly, they may result in outcomes that are not desirable. This is why choosing the proper dental practice is crucial. It is not uncommon to see ads on the internet promising outrageous smile results for meagre prices. More often than not, the results promised by these practices are not attained, leaving patients with broken dreams and, in some cases, ruining or worsening their smiles. To prevent yourself from experiencing these unfortunate turns of events, it should be critical when choosing a dental practice for your smile makeover. Here are some tips you can follow when selecting a dental hospital for your teeth makeover;

•  Qualification and Credentials: Verifying the credentials and qualifications of the dentists and personnel is crucial. Seek out clinicians that have advanced training in cosmetic dentistry and related expertise when selecting a hospital.
• Cutting-edge Technology: For cosmetic dental procedures, select a dental centre that has state-of-the-art machinery and technology. Modern technology and equipment can increase the precision and effectiveness of smile makeover procedures.
• Portfolio and Prior to and Following Images: Choose a dentist office that has a track record of producing really nice cosmetic outcomes. Examine the dentist’s work history and request to view before and after pictures of prior smile makeover procedures. This will show you their level of skill and the anticipated outcomes visually.
• Cost – be wary of cheap smile makeovers, as the quality of work can be assured to be on par with price.

DURATION OF A SMILE MAKEOVER

The duration and number of visits you will need to complete your smile makeover depends on the procedures you will have to fix your smile. For instance, teeth whitening may require only a visit, while you may need a few more appointments for a dental implant.

IS A TEETH MAKEOVER PAINFUL?

Present day dentistry is minimally invasive and cause little to no pain. For more extensive procedures, your dentist will administer painkillers to ensure you are comfortable. In general, all smile makeover procedures are outpatient procedures, with very little down time.

LONGEVITY OF A SMILE MAKEOVER

How long the results last vary on things like how well you care for your teeth, your lifestyle, and the materials used. With proper care, results can last for many years.