What do George Clooney, Jessica Alba, Zac Efron, Jennifer Aniston and Tom Cruise have in common?
Besides the fact that they are world-famous, it’s their teeth! Yes, these stars are all thought to have had what we call a smile makeover. In Part One of this series, we’ll explore the most common aspects of what could be one of the best ways to improve your smile — and your life!
What is a smile makeover, you ask?
Should you get a smile makeover?
Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem: It’s no fun being reluctant to express yourself to others and to be “in the moment”. If you have problems smiling because you’re embarrassed by defects in your oral cavity, you may want to consider a smile makeover.
Improving oral health and function: Sometimes, it’s got nothing to do with cosmetics — you may have a problem simply chewing, swallowing — even breathing! Correcting the physiology of your mouth can be a source of tremendous relief, and might even improve your health.
A brighter, whiter and more youthful smile: Some people, not all, say, nothing makes you look older than stained or discolored teeth. Take a gander in the mirror and try to imagine what you would look like with a whiter smile, even just a little. If you see a younger-looking person, it may be time to try a smile makeover.
A more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing smile: For some people, a misaligned smile such as a gap between the front teeth, can make you look profound or quirky — possibly not for you. If you’ve always wanted a more aligned smile, a smile makeover presents a number of ways to make your dream a reality.
A more harmonious balance between facial features and teeth: Interesting question — Does what your teeth look like match what your face looks like? A smile makeover removes the incongruity, to make you look like, well, you!
What are some typical solutions built into a smile makeover?
Teeth Whitening: You know this one. Usually, the big decision is whether to…
- go your own way with commercial products like whitening strips
- use customized solutions we prepare for you to take home
- have us do the treatments for you in the dental office
These solutions are not equally effective — you may not even be a good candidate for teeth whitening. We say, for maximum benefit, let us evaluate and help you make the right decision for you at your next appointment.
Dental Veneers: These are custom-made, thin shells of dental ceramic bonded to the front of the teeth to cover imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps, and permanent discolorations. Veneers present some pluses and some minuses, depending on your personal lifestyle, habits, and issues with your teeth. Again, it’s best to evaluate the appropriateness of this option with us first, but often, dental veneers are just the thing to help change your look for the better.
Dental Crowns: A crown is a cap that fits over a partially damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. A root canal procedure may require a dental crown if an affected tooth is significantly damaged, but they can be an excellent solution to help bring out the best in your smile.
Dental Bridges: These are dental appliances used to replace missing teeth by attaching to adjacent teeth, creating a bridge-like structure (no toll required) :). Bridges are a great solution in a variety of situations, and may have to be used as a substitute for dental implants. Ask us for more info.
Dental Implants: These technological marvels can preserve the integrity of your jaw over the long haul and are one of the best solutions for replacing missing teeth. In a nutshell, a metal post is inserted into the jawbone. After the healing process is complete, a dental crown it fastened to it. Implants can be just like smiling, biting and chewing with a real tooth. Ask us if you are a good candidate! These are just some of the techniques we can use as part of our cosmetic dental plan.
The bottom line…
In Part Two of this series, we’ll tell you more about smile makeovers. In the interim, if you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call. Your smile is important to us!
