Everyone loves to smile! A bright, cheerful smile can make one feel good about oneself and make friends. Well, not everyone is fortunate enough to have that ‘perfect’ smile. For such people who do not like their teeth, a makeover of the teeth will come in handy. In this blog, we will be talking about what a smile makeover is, what it incorporates, how long it takes, and why it is essential. Let’s dive in!
What is a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover is just magic: it changes your teeth! It usually consists of several dental treatments combined to form an enhanced look for your smile, like giving your teeth a new dress! Sometimes, each treatment can be done for a different problem, so you will have the smile you have always wanted.
Why would anybody want a smile makeover?
There could be many reasons as to why anyone would want to attempt a smile makeover.
- Discolored Teeth: Yellow or stained teeth from the consumption of food and beverages will brighten after a makeover.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: If any of your teeth are broken or small portions are missing, then a makeover may repair those teeth.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Some people may have spaces between their teeth that they might want to be closed. A smile makeover can help bring those teeth closer in.
- Misaligned Teeth: A makeover can align teeth that are not straight.
- Irregular Gums: At times, gums seem to be not at the same level or chew into too much of the tooth. The makeover levels them and looks fantastic.
Various Smile Makeover Components
A makeover could include several types of treatment. Some of the most common are discussed below:
- Consultation: This is the initial process whereby you consult the dentist about your smile. The dentist then inspects the teeth and inquires about what you will want changed.
- Whitening: This is a treatment used to brighten your teeth by making them white and shiny. This usually takes an hour at the dentist.
- Dental Veneers: Thin, translucent porcelain shells are fixed onto the surfaces of teeth. It helps to mask chipped teeth, stains, and gaps.
- Dental Crowns: They can be used to cap a tooth that has become broken or severely weak. Crowns shall therefore appear as any other teeth.
- Bonding: It involves a special type of tooth-colored material that is placed by the dentist in your teeth to repair tiny problems like chips or gaps.
- Orthodontia: The big word for treatments to help straighten your teeth. A lot of kids and teens wear braces or clear aligners like Invisalign of Stamford, CT. These clear aligners fit over your teeth and slowly begin to shift them into their proper position without the use of metal brackets in traditional braces.
- Gum Recontouring: If it seems that your gums are all uneven or that too much of the gums are showing when you smile, your dentist can reshape those to balance everything out.
What to Expect During a Smile Makeover
First Visit – Consultation: On this visit, the dentist will be discussing with you the desired outcome of your smile. The dentist will examine your teeth and the photographs taken, possibly even models of your teeth, to determine what will work best for you.
Planning Your Treatment: After having taken a look at your teeth, the dentist suggests a treatment plan. It may be thought of as a map to show what treatment you will have and in what order.
Initiate Treatments: Either you start your whitening or get fitted with braces depending on the treatment plan you have worked out. Some treatments require only one visit, while others may take several appointments.
How Long Does a Smile Makeover Take?
The length of time for a smile makeover can vary greatly. Here is a simplified breakdown of how long different treatments usually take:
- Consultation: This is your first visit and usually takes an hour or so.
- Teeth Whitening: If this is performed in the dentist’s chair, this takes approximately 1-2 hours. If performed at home with kits, it may take weeks for the complete effect to be realized.
- How Long Does It Take? Veneers and Crowns: Most veneers and crowns take two visits to the dentist. The first is to prepare the teeth and molds, which generally takes about an hour or two. The second is to put the veneers or crowns on, which takes about an hour.
- Bonding: Most bonding can be done in one visit, in about 30-60 minutes per tooth.
- Orthodontics: If you choose Invisalign in Stamford, CT you will be fitted and this takes around an hour. It can then take 6 months to 2 years depending on how much your teeth need to be moved.
- Gum Reshaping: This usually takes an hour and can often be finished in one visit.
Smile Makeover: What’s Next?
After your makeover is complete, you will more than likely notice a huge surge in confidence. You will want to show off that new smile! Here are some ways to keep that smile looking its best:
- Brush Your Teeth: Make sure to brush twice a day and floss every day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- See Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups to the dentist, every six months, will keep your smile the best it can be.
- Watch What You Eat and Drink: Staining of the teeth comes from certain foods and drinks, like soda or coffee. Try not to have too much!
- Mouthguard: Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or when grinding your teeth at night to protect them.
- Your Dentist’s Advice: Your dentist will instruct you about specific instructions related to the different treatments that you have undergone. Follow them!
Conclusion
A smile makeover is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. At Aurora Smiles, we cater to various cases, including orthodontics and Invisalign treatments in Stamford, CT. The duration of the smile makeover process depends on your individual needs and the specific treatments you choose. With proper care and attention, your new smile can shine brightly for years to come.
Get ready to take the first step toward a beautiful smile by consulting with Dr. Amul Patel at Aurora Smiles. Don’t wait—visit us today to start your journey toward a radiant and confident smile!