Many people want to change something about their physical appearance, whether they want to lose weight, gain muscle, or change the way their face or hair looks. Some people aren't happy with their smiles and want to improve the appearance of their teeth and gums.
A complete smile makeover can do just that. A smile makeover usually includes one or more cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers. If you want to change your smile, here are a few things to keep in mind before you start the process.
1. Your budget
The first thing to consider is how much you can comfortably afford to spend making over your smile. While your dental insurance is likely to cover restorative treatments, it usually doesn't cover cosmetic treatments such as veneers or teeth whitening.
If you're concerned about the cost of your smile makeover, you have some options. Your dentist might offer financing to help you pay for the makeover in affordable monthly installments. Another option is to use a credit card or personal loan to pay for your makeover.
2. What you want to change
A smile makeover can be as dramatic or subtle as you want it to be. Make a list of the things you want to change about your smile. Some options include:
- Your tooth color: Teeth whitening can remove stains and discoloration from the surface of your teeth.
- Your tooth shape: If you have broken teeth or a tooth with a jagged edge, veneers or bonding can help to improve the shape.
- Your tooth spacing: Veneers can also help to reduce the amount of space between your teeth, creating an even, aligned appearance. In some cases, orthodontic treatment – such as Invisalign – can be part of your smile makeover.
- Your gums: If your gums are receding, too much of the tooth is exposed, which can make you look older. Some people also show a lot of gum when they smile. A dentist can change the gum line to create a more proportional appearance.
3. Your commitment
For the best results, you'll need to put some effort into maintaining your new smile. That means committing to taking good care of your teeth after the makeover. For example, you'll want to brush and floss at least twice a day and see your dentist twice-a-year for exams and cleanings.
It's also important to understand how long each cosmetic enhancement will last. Veneers and crowns often have long lifespans with the right care, but will likely need replacement if they chip or break.
Before you schedule your makeover, it's important to treat any underlying dental issues. Cosmetic treatments improve the aesthetics of your smile but won't fix cavities or bite issues. Get your cavities treated and consider Invisalign if your teeth or bite are considerably misaligned.
Your dentist can help you choose the cosmetic dental treatments that will give you the smile of your dreams. Contact us today at 212.685.4730 to schedule an appointment. We’re conveniently located between Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library (Bryant Park) on 41st Street.