Who it is for
A smile makeover suits anyone who is not happy with how their smile looks and who is in good overall health. It can also help people with functional problems. Misshapen or crooked teeth and gaps can affect speech and make chewing difficult or painful.
People often do it before a wedding or another big event, but you do not need a special date. No one should feel embarrassed about their teeth.
Why people need one
The reasons vary. Habits from younger years, an injury to the mouth, genetics and some medications can all change how teeth and gums look. Tetracycline, an antibiotic, can cause permanent gray discoloration when taken at a young age.
Treatments that can be part of it
We look at your goals, your oral health, your facial appearance, your jaw alignment and the condition of your teeth. Then we choose from options such as:
- Dental bonding: tooth-colored resin that repairs chipped or cracked teeth, closes gaps or changes a tooth's shape.
- Veneers: thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their color or shape.
- Crowns: caps over a damaged tooth that strengthen it and improve its look.
- Braces: steady pressure over time to move crooked teeth into place.
- Teeth whitening: brightens stained or discolored teeth. It is often the last step.
No two makeovers are alike. If one treatment does not work for you, we can suggest another.
How we plan it
- Exam and X-rays. They show decay or cavities that need repair first. Dental X-rays involve low radiation, according to the American Dental Association.
- Treat underlying problems. Gum disease and tooth decay are handled before any cosmetic work.
- Build the plan. We choose the treatments and the order that make each step work better.
- Complete the treatments. Many procedures take only one or two visits, and it is common to do one or two treatments in a single appointment.
Caring for your new smile
Cosmetic work does not replace regular dental care. We give you instructions for your specific treatments. In general, brush twice a day, floss once a day and avoid abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch the surface of teeth. Limit stain-causing drinks such as coffee and red wine, and see us every six months for a cleaning and exam.
Ready to talk about your smile? Call (781) 289-3331 and we will help you plan.
Common questions
Is a smile makeover the same as full mouth rejuvenation?
No. A smile makeover is mainly cosmetic and less extensive. Full mouth rejuvenation uses many of the same methods but also includes general and restorative care, such as TMJ or gum disease treatment.
How long does a smile makeover take?
It depends on the treatments you need. Many procedures can be done in one or two visits. We give you a clearer timeline once we have a plan.
Is there an age limit?
No. Adults of all ages can have cosmetic dentistry, and professional care helps keep a smile healthy at any age.
Will insurance cover it?
Plans often do not cover cosmetic treatment. A makeover can include restorative work, such as crowns that repair broken teeth, and insurance may cover part of that.
Will I need X-rays first?
Yes, we recommend an evaluation with X-rays so we can find decay that must be repaired before cosmetic treatment.