Happy Woman after Smile Makeover

3 Considerations for a Complete Smile Makeover

Team General Dentistry

If your teeth are healthy but unsightly, a complete smile makeover may be just what you need to take your self-confidence to the next level. It is important to work closely with a skilled, trusted cosmetic dentist to design and plan your new smile. If you are looking for a radical overhaul of your smile, here are 3 things to consider as you plan your smile makeover.


Perfect or Natural?


You may be looking for the “perfect smile,” but keep in mind that teeth that are too straight, too white, and too objectively perfect often appear fake. If you are certain this is the smile you want, you might need facial plastic surgery to restructure your features.

Instead, consider the “natural smile” that is perfect for you. It will be straighter, whiter, and more perfect than your current smile, but it will be uniquely yours. Tailored to your features and your personality, this is a stunning smile that truly fits you.

We will carefully analyze the existing spacing and alignment of your teeth, your face shape, your features, your skin tone, and the issues you want to fix, and then work collaboratively with you to design the size, shape, and color of each individual tooth. Please note that we must correct any existing oral health problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, before starting your smile makeover.


Photographic Inspiration


It is always helpful to begin with a bit of design inspiration. Please bring in photos of your childhood smile and various smiles that you admire, and be prepared to talk about what you like and don’t like about them. Also consider different smile quirks you like, such as slightly pointy canine teeth or a small gap between the front teeth.


Digital Smile Design


When we understand what you are looking for, we will take digital impressions and photos of your existing smile and create a 3-D digital smile model. We will then morph it into your projected smile and make digital adjustments until you are satisfied. 

Next, we will build a wax mockup of your new smile. This allows you to make cosmetic changes as desired, and it allows us to ensure that the smile is as functional as it is beautiful. We will tweak the model until we are all happy with it.