A gorgeous smile is an asset, both in your professional as well as your personal life. However, this smile can become dull and unsightly due to many reasons like not taking care of teeth, consuming foods and drinks that damage the teeth, etc. To revive your dull smile back to its former glory, the patient is suggested to get a smile makeover.
A smile makeover is a set of procedures performed at the dental clinic to enhance the appearance as well the dental health of the patient. It is a customized plan created by the dentist upon consultation according to the patient’s needs. It is different for every patient.
Let us try to understand some procedures that may be included in a smile makeover.
1. Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic procedure opted by patients. It helps brighten the teeth. The procedure involves a thorough examination of the teeth for any complications. After making sure that the patient doesn’t have any conditions that could damage the teeth, the dentist will proceed with the treatment.
A whitening gel or solution is applied to the patient’s teeth with the help of a brush. This whitening solution contains whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide, etc. It is left on the teeth for a few minutes.
After a while, laser light is used on the teeth to activate the whitening agents. The teeth are closely observed during this step. The teeth colour starts to change with the application of laser light. The laser is removed when the desired shade is achieved and the whitening solution is washed off.
The results from this procedure last for a long time if the patient properly takes care of them. Patients are also advised to show up for follow-up treatments to maintain the whiteness.
2. Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are custom-made, shell-like veneers that are attached to the surface of the teeth. They are made of ceramic material. This material looks and functions like tooth enamel. Porcelain veneers can help correct uneven teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, etc.
The procedure begins by creating an appropriate dental plan with the dentist. The dentist will assess your needs and concerns and will prepare the strategy appropriately. During the next visit, the impression of your teeth will be taken. This impression will help in the preparation of customized porcelain veneers. It is then sent to the lab for preparation of the same.
After the veneers are prepared, the patient will be called to the clinic once again for the final appointment. During this visit, the dentist will place the veneers on the teeth and match the colour and appearance. After making sure that the veneers match the colour of the teeth, they will be bonded to the teeth with the help of dental cement. A light beam is shown on this cement for hardening. This appointment will take anywhere between 2- 3 hours.
3. Dental braces
Braces are dental tools attached to the surface of the teeth for straightening and realigning them. They are a very good choice for patients who want to correct crooked teeth. Braces also improve the appearance of the teeth. They take a few months for straightening the teeth but the results are worth it as they are long-lasting.
The procedure involves a thorough examination of the teeth, an X-ray may be advised. The next step involves placing brackets on the teeth surface with the help of dental cement. These brackets help hold the wire in place. A high-intensity light is shone on these brackets to harden the cement and strengthen the bonding of the brackets. Next, an arch wire is placed on these brackets and is tightened. The procedure ends here and does not take more than 30 minutes.
4. Dental bonding
Dental bonding is defined as the binding of a particular material that either strengthens the teeth or improves their appearance by filling in chips, cracks, and fill in cavities. It is bound to the teeth with the help of dental cement or other dental adhesives. In direct dental composite bonding, the composite material is applied directly to the surface of the teeth.
The procedure begins with applications of phosphoric acid solution to the teeth. This will help in better adhesion of the composite material to the surface of the teeth. It is removed from the teeth after 15 seconds. Composite material is applied to the surface in a putty-like form. Then it is sculpted with the help of tools to look just like natural teeth and is then dried and strengthened with the help of high-intensity light. Composite resin is the most common material used for bonding.
5. Dental implants
Dental implants are devices that act as false tooth roots and hold artificial teeth in place. They are used in cases of tooth loss. The procedure for dental implants begins with a consultation with the dentist and a thorough examination of the teeth. Any underlying dental issues are also supposed to be treated. If the patient has decaying teeth, cavities, etc. he or she is advised to get treatment for these issues first and then proceed with dental implants as these conditions can affect the impact of the implants.
Then, during placing the implants, a small incision is made in the gum to make the jawbone visible. A hole is made into the jaw for placement of the metal post. The metal post is usually made of titanium and is made to sit deep in the jawbone. The metal post is left undisturbed for a few weeks to promote Osseo integration and healing of the tissue. Once the tissue has healed, an abutment is placed above which a crown will be placed. The abutment is also given a few weeks for healing. After complete healing, impressions of the tooth are taken for the preparation of an artificial tooth. When the artificial tooth is prepared, it is placed on the crown and the procedure is completed.
If you are interested in a smile makeover, schedule a consultation with your dental clinic. They will be able to customize a plan taking into account your specific requirements.