How Do I Prepare for Smile Makeover Treatment?

If you have discolored, damaged teeth or are simply unhappy with how your teeth look, it is a good idea to ask a dentist about getting a smile makeover. This treatment involves a series of cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve the overall appearance of the teeth. Before having any work done, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a dentist to discuss the desired outcome. To make the most out of this appointment, it is important to come prepared with a general idea of what improvements need to be made.

Making the most of a smile makeover consultation

While some people assume that the dentist will do most of the talking during a cosmetic dentistry consultation, this appointment is the patient’s main opportunity to discuss any dissatisfaction with their teeth and establish what changes are a priority. Every patient’s situation is unique, so there is not a single treatment plan for every person seeking a smile makeover. Going into the consultation, the patient should know the following information ahead of time:

• What missing or damaged teeth need to be addressed
• How extensive any discoloration or staining is
• What other dental problems such as misalignment, tooth decay or gum disease are present
• Whether there is anything else about their mouth that bothers the patient
• What the patient’s ideal tooth color and alignment looks like

Prioritizing treatments and setting goals

Depending on the patient's budget, it may be necessary to prioritize certain treatments ahead of time and to set clear goals. For instance, a patient may want to focus on whitening the teeth and removing any stains, or the main goal could be to address any damaged or misshaped teeth. Once the patient has an idea of what work needs to be done, it is time to discuss the treatments that can be used to achieve this goal.

Dental crowns or veneers

Dental crowns are caps that fully cover a tooth, while a porcelain veneer is a thin shell that is bonded to the front of the teeth. Both options can help address visible flaws on the teeth, but crowns are often needed for teeth that are severely worn or decayed. Additionally, while veneers can be effective for making minor shape corrections, a crown may be a better option for addressing misshaped teeth. Veneers are a minimally invasive option and require less of the teeth to be trimmed.

Dental implants

If a tooth is extremely damaged or missing, a dental implant can replace it completely. This treatment option requires surgery and often take several months to fully complete.

Teeth whitening

Over time, stains can appear on the surface of the teeth due to drinking dark-colored drinks, smoking or other causes. While there at at-home bleaching options, a dentist can help patients achieve the desired shade of white in office.

Conclusion

Living with unattractive teeth can take a major toll on a person’s confidence and can even impact oral health. Scheduling a smile makeover treatment can help patients transform their smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.advdentalarts.com or call Advanced Dental Arts: Rey Martinez DDS at (847) 223-5200 for an appointment in our Grayslake office.

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