What Types of Dental Restoration Are Part of a Smile Makeover?

People looking to enhance the appearance of their teeth often request smile makeover treatments. Dental restorations transform a patient's smile by replacing missing teeth or changing the look of the natural teeth. Patients considering cosmetic dentistry should be aware of the treatment options available to make informed decisions about dental care.

4 common restorations used for a smile makeover

A dentist chooses treatment options based on the patient's specific needs. The patient and dentist should discuss all options and expected outcomes for these and other restorations.

1. Orthodontic appliances

Adult patients may think they are too old for orthodontic treatment. However, patients of any age can benefit from orthodontics. Straighter teeth can make a significant impact on a patient's smile. Dentists can use traditional braces or clear aligners to accomplish this as part of a smile makeover.

In some cases, dentists may recommend orthodontic appliances. For example, palatal expanders can change the shape of the upper jaw. Appliance therapy is beneficial for patients who have very crowded teeth. These devices expand the jaw to make room for the teeth, and dentists can then provide braces or aligners to straighten the teeth.

2. Crowns and veneers

Crowns and veneers have been a part of dental treatments for many years. These restorations can change the size, shape, and color of the teeth. They can also restore broken, stained, and decayed teeth.

Crowns offer full coverage around a tooth, so dentists recommend these restorations when a tooth is badly decayed. Veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth, so dentists have to remove less tooth structure to apply them. The patient can choose the color and shape of both crowns and veneers to match the existing teeth.

3. Dentures

Patients with severely decayed teeth may feel too embarrassed to show them. However, there are several treatments to allow these patients to smile confidently again. If the teeth are too decayed for a dentist to restore, extraction is necessary, and then a denture can replace multiple teeth.

Dentures help patients retain lip support, which is a factor in having a younger-looking smile. Patients can choose the shade of the denture teeth, and the dental laboratory can make the acrylic base for the denture match the patient's gums. This way, the restorations look as natural as possible.

4. Implants

For patients who are missing teeth but do not want dentures, dental implants are a viable option. A single implant can replace one or more teeth, and a dentist can often place several implants in a single appointment.

A patient should always discuss implant compatibility with a dentist before the procedure. The patient must have ample jawbone to support the implant and commit to caring for the surgical sites. After the implant sites heal, a dentist can place natural-looking porcelain crowns on the implants. A dental laboratory can also make a denture that snaps onto implants.

Conclusion

Cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve. With more restoration options available than ever before, patients can have a smile to love. For those interested in a smile makeover, set up a consultation with a dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://totalcareimplantdentistry.com or call Total Care Implant Dentistry at (760) 394-3088 for an appointment in our Palm Desert office.

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