Is a Smile Makeover For Cosmetic Or Restorative Purposes?
A smile makeover is the use of both cosmetic dentistry and restorative dental procedures to repair and enhance the look of the teeth so that individuals can smile confidently. When continuously finding imperfections like discoloration, crooked teeth or missing teeth, undergoing a smile makeover may offer the perfect solution that is needed. Whatever the goals are, a general dentist will develop the right treatment plan for a successful smile makeover.
The smile makeover solution
The procedures included in a smile makeover treatment focus on improving cosmetic concerns that patients have. Additionally, some of the procedures also serve restorative purposes as well. Some of the options available include:
Teeth whitening
This is probably the most common cosmetic treatment provided to patients during a smile makeover. Many people usually try to whiten their teeth with at-home whitening gels, strips and toothpaste. However, many of these store-bought products do not produce the kind of results that they desire. The dentist provides professional teeth whitening treatment to patients with stains or discoloration.
The procedure is ideal for patients who are looking for quick and drastic changes to their smile and have no history of teeth sensitivity. With this option, the dentist can make the teeth up to eight shades whiter. Alternatively, patients can get a professional at-home whitening kit to use.
Porcelain veneers
Veneers are popular options among patients who want to cover flaws on their teeth. They are ultra-thin, tooth-shaped shells that are bonded to the surface of the teeth to improve symmetry, size and shape. The dentist can use them for issues such as chips, fractures, discoloration and the results are usually stunning. Unlike other smile makeover procedures, veneers can be used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes.
Dental crowns
Dental crowns are usually for restorative dental care, such as to repair and support a tooth that has suffered damage due to decay or injury. Additionally, they can be used to hide imperfections and lengthen a tooth, both of which are considered cosmetic. Since the materials used for crowns (porcelain) look a lot like the natural tooth, they are often a popular choice for those undergoing a smile makeover.
Dental bonding
If the imperfection is minor, the dentist may include dental bonding in the smile makeover treatment plan. Dental bonding is a quick and easy solution that involves the use of composite resin material to enhance the appearance of a tooth. Stains, chips, cracks or gaps can be corrected with a dental bonding solution.
Tooth-colored fillings
Many patients are opting to have old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings. When properly done, it is hard to tell the restoration apart from the natural tooth. The dentist will customize the filling to match the shade of the patient’s tooth so that the tooth can remain functional, yet good-looking. Replacing old fillings with more modern ones may fall under the category of cosmetics, however, traditionally, fillings are a restorative procedure.
Learn more about the smile makeover process
Some of the procedures included in a smile makeover treatment plan can serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. The goal is to dramatically improve your smile, which may require various procedures. Reach out today to find out more or to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalcareofmadison.com or call Dental Care of Madison at (601) 898-9390 for an appointment in our Madison office.
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