A smile makeover involves careful planning and a variety of procedures to transform a patient’s smile. Many patients want a makeover to treat cosmetic dental concerns. A combination of cosmetic treatments can also improve your mouth’s comfort, health, and function. Dr. Stephen Hoard can create your customized smile makeover in his New Bern, NC, dental office.
The Smile Makeover Process
New Bern, NC, cosmetic dentist Dr. Hoard begins a smile makeover with a consultation, where he and the patient discuss the desired outcome. Next, a comprehensive evaluation is performed to examine the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and muscles. Dr. Hoard looks carefully for any underlying causes for cosmetic concerns, such as instability in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) or decay.
These problems could cause dental procedures to fail and lead to the same problems recurring. Treating the root cause of the dental problem is critical to ensuring long-term success.
Using 2D and 3D images and models, Dr. Hoard will create a customized treatment plan and give you a visual of the proposed results. When Dr. Hoard performs a smile makeover, he considers the patient’s entire facial appearance, including skin tone, hair color, lips, tooth display, and gums, to create a smile that looks and feels natural.
Dr. Hoard takes a multidisciplinary approach to complex smile makeovers. He has developed a relationship with periodontist Jeffery Thomas, DDS, and orthodontist Todd Rankin, DDS. This team approach allows Dr. Hoard to maximize results for his patients and ensure they receive the same high level of care that he provides in his office.
Smile Makeover Procedures
Patient Review
What Can a Smile Makeover Do?
A smile makeover can improve cosmetic and functional dental concerns, such as:
Discolored or Stained Teeth
Tooth enamel is susceptible to staining from dark foods and beverages. Tobacco use, medications, trauma, and age can also cause teeth to darken and discolor. Selecting a natural-looking tooth shade is important, and one must take into consideration skin tone and facial appearance.
Simple professional teeth whitening can enhance teeth that are minimally affected by discoloration. More serious cases may require porcelain veneers, dental crowns, or composite bonding.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Often, teeth become broken or chipped as a result of trauma or an accident. Teeth that are worn down may indicate a larger issue with occlusal instability (bite). Any functional concerns, such as instability, must be addressed to ensure the long-term success of dental work.
Teeth with small chips or cracks can usually be repaired with composite bonding, inlays, or onlays. Larger chips and broken teeth may require porcelain veneers or dental crowns. In some cases, a tooth may be so badly damaged that it needs to be removed and replaced with a dental implant.
Gaps or Spaces Between Teeth
Gaps between the teeth can be embarrassing and also a health concern. Food and bacteria can become lodged in the spaces between teeth, contributing to gum disease and tooth decay. Gaps or spaces between the teeth can be easily corrected during a smile makeover. We may recommend composite bonding for small spaces. To correct larger gaps, Dr. Hoard may recommend porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
Missing Teeth
One of the most serious concerns is missing teeth. When left untreated, missing teeth can contribute to serious problems in the health of the surrounding bone, gum, and teeth. We offer excellent options for replacing missing teeth, such as dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants in New Bern, NC.
Gummy Smile
If your smile shows too much gum tissue and your teeth appear short, you might have what’s called a gummy smile. The good news is that this common issue is fixable. We can recommend a crown lengthening or porcelain veneers.
Smile Makeover FAQs
Read answers to common questions about a smile makeover in New Bern, NC:
Am I a good candidate for a smile makeover?
You might be a good candidate for a smile makeover if you’re unhappy with how your teeth look or function. Common reasons people choose smile makeovers include
- Stained teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Missing teeth
- Gaps between teeth
Even if you have generally healthy teeth but want a more attractive smile, you could benefit.
How long does a smile makeover take?
The timeline for a smile makeover depends on the treatments you need. Simple improvements like teeth whitening might take just one visit. More complex changes could take several months.
If your makeover includes braces or aligners, you might need 6-18 months to straighten teeth first. Procedures like veneers or crowns typically require 2 to 3 visits per tooth, with about two weeks between appointments for lab work. For dental implants, the process often takes 3 to 6 months. The jawbone needs time to heal around the implant.
Can I preview what my new smile will look like?
Yes, you can preview what your new smile will look like. Dr. Hoard uses specialized tools, such as 2D and 3D images, to show you what your smile makeover results might look like before treatment begins. This helps you see how your teeth and smile could change. It also gives you a chance to ask questions or make changes to the plan, so you feel confident about your new smile.
Can you fix worn-down teeth from grinding or clenching?
Yes, worn-down teeth from grinding or clenching can be fixed. Dr. Hoard can use treatments like dental crowns, veneers, or bonding to rebuild and protect your teeth. He will also check for any bite problems or jaw issues that may be causing the grinding. If needed, he may recommend a custom night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep and prevent more damage.
Is a smile makeover painful?
Most smile makeover procedures involve little to no pain because dentists use numbing medicine to keep you comfortable. You might feel some pressure during treatments, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pain.
Some procedures, like teeth whitening, might make your teeth temporarily sensitive afterward. Dr. Hoard will explain what to expect with each treatment and can offer sedation options if you’re nervous.
How long will the results of my smile makeover last?
The results of your smile makeover can last for many years, but exactly how long depends on the treatments you receive and how well you care for your teeth. Porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years, while dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years. Teeth whitening results can stay bright for 1 to 3 years before you need a touch-up.
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, though the crown on top may need to be replaced after 10-15 years. Orthodontic results from braces or Invisalign can last forever if you wear your retainer as directed.
Will my smile makeover look natural?
Yes, modern smile makeovers are designed to look completely natural. We use materials and techniques that match your real teeth in color, shape, and texture. Treatments like veneers and crowns are custom-made to blend with your natural tooth shade and fit your facial features. The goal isn’t to create fake-looking “perfect” teeth, but to enhance your smile while keeping it looking like you.
Makeover Your Teeth and Gums Today
A smile makeover combines several cosmetic and restorative dental procedures for beautiful results. Contact our office today to learn more about a smile makeover in New Bern, NC, at (252) 507-0373. You can also schedule a consultation with Dr. Hoard.
