A smile makeover is about much more than fixing a chip here and there. It’s a carefully planned cosmetic dentistry treatment that tries to get a bird’s-eye view of your entire smile and how it fits your face. When dentists begin treatment, they look at several aspects of your teeth to “get it right.” Read on to learn five important aesthetic elements of smile makeovers, so you can articulate your desires to your dentist.
1. Tooth Color and Brightness
Tooth shade is often the first thing people notice because it’s easily seen and articulated. “Shade” refers to both the color and overall brightness of your teeth, and a smile makeover focuses on creating the perfect blend that looks completely natural.
The final result is chosen to complement your skin tone, eye color, and even hair color, so it looks balanced instead of artificial. Treatments like professional teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding are great for correcting stains and discoloration.
2. Alignment and Spacing
Aside from tooth color, crooked teeth, gaps, and crowding can all affect how your smile looks—sometimes drastically.
To keep your smile symmetrical without orthodontics, many dentists use treatments like cosmetic bonding and veneers. These can subtly change the appearance of gaps and alignment issues.
3. Gum Line and Symmetry
Your gums are like a natural frame for your teeth, so their appearance also matters. A “gummy” smile, uneven gum levels, or areas of recession can distract from otherwise healthy teeth.
In some smile makeovers, gentle gum reshaping is used to create a more even and aesthetic gum line. This can help your teeth appear properly sized and aligned without ever touching them.
4. Tooth Shape, Size, and Proportion
Every tooth has a part to play when it comes to the appearance of your smile. Teeth that are too short, worn down, or uneven can make your grin look older or unbalanced.
Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can reshape or rebuild teeth using cosmetic bonding, veneers, or crowns. These restorations can change the proportions of individual teeth, bringing them more in line with your overall smile aesthetic.
5. Smile Line and Facial Harmony
A smile makeover also looks at how your teeth follow the curve of your lower lip when you grin. This is called the “smile line.” To check this, your dentist will evaluate how your teeth, lips, and facial features work together from the front and side. Then they’ll use different procedures to create a satisfying line.
By carefully considering the overall balance of your smile, a cosmetic dentist can design a treatment plan that works to fill all your needs and goals. With thoughtful planning and modern techniques, a smile makeover could be the key to a gorgeous grin you’re glad to have.
About the Author
Dr. David Nisenboym is a passionate and friendly Walnut Creek dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific Dental School. A Misch International Implant Institute Fellow and member of the American Dental Association, he’s dedicated to precise, comfortable, and personalized dentistry. Call (925) 934-3395 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Blue Wave Dental or visit our website to explore other services.