What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan designed to change or improve the appearance of a patient's smile. Sometimes this is done with restorative procedures, periodontal procedures, or a combination of different treatments.
At Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee, one procedure that we commonly perform as part of a smile makeover is aesthetic crown lengthening. This may be used to address a gummy smile or improve the proportions of the visible teeth and gums.
This treatment is often coordinated with a restoring doctor, such as a general dentist or prosthodontist, who may provide additional cosmetic or restorative care after the periodontal procedure has been performed.
What are the goals of a smile makeover?
The goals of a smile makeover depend on what the individual patient would like to change about their smile. Treatment may focus on the appearance of the teeth, gums, or both.
While many smile makeover procedures are primarily cosmetic, some treatments may also address restorative or functional concerns depending on the patient's needs.
Who is a candidate for a smile makeover?
If you're unhappy with an aspect of your smile, you may be interested in learning about smile makeover options. However, not every procedure is appropriate for every patient.
We would want you to come in for an exam so we can evaluate your teeth, gums, bone levels, bite, and other clinical factors. From there, we can determine which treatments may be appropriate for your individual goals and oral health.
What procedures can be part of a smile makeover?
There are a few different procedures that can be performed as part of a smile makeover. Keep in mind that treatment may involve multiple doctors and coordination between offices.
At our office, a common procedure that we perform is aesthetic crown lengthening. This procedure changes the gumline and, when appropriate, the underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth and improve tooth-to-gum proportions.
This may be coordinated with treatments provided by another dental provider, such as crowns or veneers, to change the shape, color, size, or appearance of the teeth. The combination of procedures depends on the individual patient's needs and goals.
What are the benefits of a smile makeover?
One potential benefit of a smile makeover is helping patients feel more comfortable with the appearance of their smile. Some people seek treatment because they're self-conscious about their teeth or gums and would like to change a particular feature.
The results and benefits vary depending on the procedures performed and the patient's individual goals. Before treatment, we'll discuss what changes may realistically be achieved.
Is a smile makeover painful?
The experience depends on which procedures are included in your smile makeover. For procedures such as aesthetic crown lengthening, local anesthetic can be used to numb the treatment area and help keep you comfortable.
Some temporary soreness, swelling, or sensitivity may occur afterward as the tissues heal. We'll explain what to expect based on the specific treatment you're having and provide instructions for managing your recovery.
How long is the healing time for a smile makeover?
The overall healing time for a smile makeover depends on where we're starting, which procedures are being performed, and where we're trying to finish.
If aesthetic crown lengthening is part of the treatment plan, the gum tissues need time to heal and mature before certain final restorative work is completed. Depending on the location and extent of treatment, that healing period may take several weeks or longer.
We'll coordinate with the restoring dentist so that crowns, veneers, or other final restorations are completed at an appropriate point in the healing process.
How soon can you brush after a smile makeover?
At Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee, we take a lot of pride in going over postoperative care instructions. How soon you can brush the treated area depends on the surgical procedure and how the tissues are healing.
After aesthetic crown lengthening or another periodontal procedure, we may ask you to temporarily avoid brushing directly over the surgical site. We may also recommend a postoperative mouth rinse and give you instructions for gradually resuming brushing with a soft toothbrush.
It's important to follow the specific instructions you're given rather than using one fixed timeline for every procedure.
If you’re looking for dental care you can trust, call us at (850) 909-9731 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help you have the smile you've always wanted!