What is Included in a Smile Makeover?

Imperfections in teeth or gums can make anyone self-conscious about their smile. Everyday interactions become less enjoyable when you are constantly anxious about the way your teeth appear. If you find yourself thinking about this every time you are out, a smile makeover will provide you with peace of mind. It is a comprehensive approach to smile correction tailored to each patient's unique dental needs. So, they can include one or more than one dental procedure. For instance, one person's smile makeover can consist of teeth-whitening only, while another person might need gum re-shaping and teeth whitening.

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening

In-office professional teeth whitening is one of the most commonly sought cosmetic dental procedures. Over time, one's teeth can start looking dull due to lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and aging. For people with discolored teeth, this procedure can deliver a bright smile within one session. After cleaning your teeth of plaque, debris, and tartar, the dentist will cover them with a whitening gel. This gel contains agents for teeth bleaching, so the professional will protect your gums by using a sheet. The gel is further activated by exposing it to specialized light or laser for efficient results. The progress depends on the condition of one's teeth. Likewise, the results can last between three and six months, depending on how well you take care of your teeth.

Dental Veneers or Lumineers

Dental veneers or Lumineers are customized, thin shells that correct aesthetic concerns of teeth by covering their front surface. They are usually made of materials that offer strength and a natural tooth-like appearance, such as composite resin or porcelain. Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant and longer-lasting, while composite veneers are quicker to apply and less expensive.  

The process of getting dental veneers requires only a couple of visits to the dentist's office. During your first visit, they take impressions of your teeth and prepare the surface by removing a small amount of enamel. In the next one or two visits, they will bond the veneers to your existing teeth. Although veneers are durable, they are still better suited for areas that do not have to withstand stronger chewing forces.

Typically, Lumineers last for five to seven years for most people. With proper care, their longevity can be extended to a decade to fifteen years. Adequate dental hygiene and avoiding habits like substance use and grinding help prolong their life.