A smile makeover is a set of dental and orthodontic procedures that help correct multiple cosmetic issues. These procedures often involve restoring or replacing teeth, as well as treating gum recession.
Traditional braces
Metal brackets and wires are bonded to the teeth with metal cement. The braces act as tiny anchors for the archwire, which gently applies pressure to move the teeth and correct misalignments. Brackets are cemented to the front of the teeth while metal ties loop around each tooth and hold the wire in place. Some patients choose elastics or small rubber bands that fit between sections of the braces to provide extra force for correcting bite issues or widening the arches of the mouth.
Once treatment is complete, the patient receives two sets of retainers that are worn at night to keep a new smile healthy. In the beginning, you will need to wear your retainer day and night to keep the teeth in proper alignment. After your first retainer check, you will graduate to only wearing the retainer only at night. These appliances must be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause oral health problems such as plaque buildup and gum disease. Patients must also keep their teeth clean with daily brushing and flossing at home.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for straightening teeth, so it’s important to consult an orthodontist to discuss the pros and cons of each option to determine which one is ideal for your unique situation. There are different types of retainers; Dr. Ben will recommend the one that is best suited for your treatment. You can also request the type of retainer you need as per your preference and comfort.
Invisalign
The clear plastic aligners of Invisalign are hardly noticeable when worn, and the natural shape, size, and color of the teeth are preserved during treatment. Our patients love that they can straighten their smiles without others noticing it.
In addition, the removable nature of the aligners means that they require less discipline than braces when it comes to oral hygiene practices. Unlike traditional fixed orthodontics, there are no brackets or wires to impede brushing and flossing during treatment. Patients simply remove the aligner for these activities and then replace it when finished. There are only a few dietary restrictions associated with wearing Invisalign trays as well, such as being unable to chew gum while wearing them to avoid dislodging an aligner.
Porcelain veneers
The shape, color, and symmetry of your teeth can all be improved with porcelain veneers. Veneers produce a brighter, straighter, and more balanced smile by covering the front surface of teeth. Each veneer is custom-made to fit the shape of a patient’s smile and can be crafted from a variety of materials, including composite resin or porcelain. Porcelain is a strong material that mimics the color and shape of natural enamel. It can be designed to perfectly complement the size, shape, and color of the natural teeth to create a brighter, more symmetrical smile.
Dental crowns
If a patient is unhappy with the appearance of their smile, crowns may be a solution. Crowns are carefully made to match the shape and color of the rest of the teeth and can therefore transform the appearance of the teeth. They are versatile and can be used to treat a number of cosmetic concerns, such as:
- Discoloration
- Chips/Cracks
- Misshapen Teeth
- Gaps between Teeth
- Misaligned Teeth
To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (801)- 269-0303 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 155 E 13800 S Ste F4, Draper, UT, Draper 84020.
