Smile makeovers are a complex dental process that involves multiple procedures to help a patient feel more comfortable with their smile, prevent severe tooth loss, or treat extensive cavities. Smile makeovers include a process of preparation, teeth and gum repair, teeth whitening, and more. Determining how long a smile makeover will take depends on the needs of the patient and the complexity of tooth deterioration. In this blog, we will look at what is involved in the smile makeover process, what can cause delays, and the different complexities of a smile makeover.
Common Steps Involved In A Smile Makeover
The first step in planning and understanding the length of a smile makeover is to know what is involved in the process. Smile makeovers can vary depending on the person, how many teeth they have, or if they have other dental problems like gum disease. Here are some of the most common steps taken by dentists during a smile makeover.
Goals And Expectations
During the first appointment, the dentist and the patient will discuss what the client wants the final result to look like, discuss any concerns, and what to expect during the process. Communicating the vision clearly to the dental experts can help them make a personalized treatment plan that will help you reach the best results possible. Dentists will also help the patient have realistic expectations while also showing them what is achievable for them.
Examination And Imaging
Before any work can start, imaging and a human examination will need to be done to see if there is hidden damage or parts of the mouth that can not be worked on. Underlying issues will need to be corrected first before restorative procedures can be completed. Digital X-rays, Cone Beam Imaging, and digital impressions may all be used to get a clear picture before the work begins.
Preliminary Treatments
Some patients can benefit from preliminary work to create a healthy foundation. These treatments can add to the time it takes to get to the finished result, but they can improve the long-term outcomes and aesthetics of your teeth. These preliminary treatments can include gum disease treatment, root canals, extractions, fillings, and cleanings.
Cosmetic Procedures And Sequencing
With a quality foundation, cosmetic work can begin, which is where your gums and teeth will undergo the biggest transformation. These makeover procedures will ensure shade matching, proportional design, and a cohesive look. Teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, bonding, and polishing will all be done in this step.
Final Adjustments
The final step in a smile makeover is to fine-tune the results and ensure that everything functions correctly. Bite adjustments, clean up, and cleanings will be done to make sure that everything looks good and feels secure. Dentists will also provide patients with aftercare instructions and what to avoid during the healing period.
Complexity Of Makeover
There are many issues that can occur with teeth and gums, so different patients will have different complexities when it comes to a smile makeover. Depending on the goals of a patient and the current state of their teeth, the smile makeover could take longer because certain procedures will need healing time in between.
The most basic smile makeover is a simple enhancement that can take anywhere between 2 and 4 weeks. These makeovers often include teeth whitening, bonding, and minor gum contouring. Bonding or gum contouring may need to heal for a week in between before another procedure can be completed.
Moderate procedures typically take 6 to 12 weeks because multiple veneers or crowns may need to be installed. Crowns may need to heal before other procedures and teeth whitening can be completed because of the extreme sensitivity of your teeth.
A comprehensive makeover can take multiple months to fully complete, ranging from 3 months to 6 months. Multiple procedures like veneers, crowns, bonding, and preliminary treatments will need to be done one at a time to prevent damage to nerves and ensure optimal healing.
Factors That Can Extend The Timeline
The more damaged and complex your teeth are, the longer your smile makeover will take. Factors that can extend the timeline include:
- The need for preliminary treatments to get a solid foundation for later work
- Orthodontic procedures or tooth movement before cosmetic procedures can begin
- Longer healing periods for implants or after-care steps were not followed, leading to infection during healing
- Multi-phase plans or complex goals of the patient
Cosmetic Treatments From Jenson Dental
Our team is proud to offer cosmetic dentistry services to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. We can help remove fillings, install crowns, implants, and whiten the teeth. Jenson Dental has experience working with all different types of patients and helping them to achieve their smile goals. Whether you want to improve a few teeth or complete a full mouth restoration, our team is here to help you throughout the entire process. Contact us to get started on your cosmetic journey today!
