Smile make-overs

What is a smile make-over?

As the name suggests, a smile makeover is a new improved smile. It may align crowded teeth, close gaps, reduce protrusion, whiten teeth, reduce a gummy smile, widen a narrow smile, change the length or shape of teeth, replace missing teeth or any combination of the above. The extend of treatment depends on the complexity of the initial problem. Since a smile make-over is an aesthetic intervention and not treatment of disease, careful treatment planning is paramount in order to minimize any biologic risk to the teeth and gums. Depending on the plan, a smile makeover may occur on a single or multiple appointments. It may involve one or a combination of materials and techniques, such as tooth whitening (bleaching), composite bonding, ceramic veneers, crowns, implants or orthodontics. Professor Lambis Petridis is a specialist in reconstructing or improving smiles. You may arrange a consultation appointment by pressing here.

An integral part of a smile makeover process is the preview of the future result so it can be evaluated before treatment begins. To that end, initial diagnostic impressions will be obtained from your mouth, in order to fabricate stone models, proceed with diagnostic work and showcase the final result from the beginning of treatment. Various ways may be utilized for the aesthetic preview, including a wax model of your mouth or even a so-called “mock-up” of the final result in composite directly in your mouth with the proposed size and shape of teeth.

What is the time required and cost of a smile make-over?

The duration of treatment and cost of your smile makeover will vary depending on the state of your oral health and the extent of your customized treatment plan. A smile makeover may take significantly longer if any underlying oral health issues are identified prior to treatment. Final costs vary and are associated with the duration of treatment and the types of intervention. It is worth investing in your smile as research has shown that people who smile more may have a longer life expectancy!

Is the result of a smile make-over permanent?

The oral environment is very challenging for all restorative materials due to the humidity, temperature and acidic changes from the food we eat, as well as the mechanical challenges of function with our teeth. Therefore, all restorative procedures require regular oral hygiene care and maintenance over time. For example, teeth whitening must be repeated on occasion in order to maintain brightness. Various restorations such as crowns, bridges or veneers may experience mechanical complications over the years and need repair or replacement. Permanent composite bonding may stain and require enhancement or replacement. At the end of treatment, you will be given a customized care plan which will help you maintain your new smile for years to come.

How can I maintain the results and my smile?

A smile makeover is an emotional and financial investment you make for yourself in order to enhance the health, function and appearance of your smile. You want that investment to bring happy and satisfying returns for years to come. Knowing how to modify your oral hygiene habits to best care for your restorations will help you maintain your new smile for years to come:

Brush two to three times each day for maximum effectiveness, always after you eat.
Flossing is a key factor in removing debris and plaque from the teeth, and actually increases the lifespan of restorations and helps prevent tooth decay.
You may have been prescribed to use fluoride as a mouth wash or gel, if you have been diagnosed as having a high risk for future decay. Avoid foods high in sugar and limit between-meal snacks to prevent cavities.
Limit consumption of coffee, soda, tea, etc. to keep your smile stain free.
Refrain from biting and/or chewing hard objects such as pens, staples, metal, bottle caps, etc.
If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism) and will be fitted with a hard clear acrylic night guard to prevent damage to your teeth and restorations; please wear it when you sleep in order to minimize the risk of mechanical damage such as chipping of porcelain or fracture of teeth.
Finally, be sure to regularly attend your review and hygiene appointments.

Please see the cases in the iSmile gallery for stories of patients who regained their confidence in smiling back! You may arrange for a consultation appointment so we can plan your new smile together.