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Unlock Confidence with Smile Makeover Benefits
A Smile Makeover is not just about aesthetics; it’s a transformation that radiates confidence. It’s a process that goes beyond just enhancing your smile; it enhances your life. By focusing on both the functional and aesthetic aspects of your smile, a Smile Makeover delivers a stunning transformation that boosts self-esteem and leaves a lasting, positive impact.
Dental health isn’t just about keeping teeth strong and healthy. It’s also about creating and maintaining a beautiful smile that makes a great first impression. At our Miami area dental practice, Bliss Dental, our skilled staff emphasizes oral health as well as the beauty of our patient’s smiles to deliver optimal patient care. The teeth draw attention to themselves when we speak, eat, and express emotions and cosmetic issues affecting the teeth can cause self-consciousness and have a negative impact on first impressions. Dr. Gaertner is a cosmetic dental care specialist in Kendall, FL, who aims to create minor aesthetic changes that offer maximum impact for his cosmetic dentistry patients.
Understanding Smile Makeover
Cosmetic dental care is a type of dentistry that is performed on an elective basis to improve the appearance of one’s teeth. When a person has had any necessary dental work completed and is in good dental health, Dr. Gaertner and his team can place their focus on a patient’s aesthetics if they are concerned about cosmetic issues. During a smile makeover treatment, the staff at Bliss Dental may work to improve the alignment of the teeth, tooth whiteness, tooth size, and shape, and replace missing anatomy to restore or create a complete set of teeth. Dr. Gaertner practices different types of dental care including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and sedation dentistry. The dentist for smile makeover also provides some endodontic treatments like root canals. By providing a full-service dental clinic, most patients’ needs can be met at a single location.
The Smile Makeover Consultation
Prior to undergoing cosmetic dentistry procedures, Dr. Gaertner must ensure there are no problems with the patient’s oral health. The dental team will perform a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth, including X-rays, and will go over the patient’s goals for cosmetic dental work. This appointment is an excellent opportunity for the staff to get to know each patient and to learn more about his or her lifestyle. With this knowledge, the experts at Bliss Dental can make informed recommendations regarding the type of dentistry procedures that a patient should consider. Many patients are unaware that there are several ways to address even the most common aesthetic and health issues. There is no one-size-fits-all solution available in cosmetic dental care, but rather, customized procedures to address each patient’s particular needs.
Patients are encouraged to complete all necessary dental work before undergoing elective cosmetic treatments. This promotes the health of the teeth and gums and ensures that Dr. Gaertner can create final restorations on healthy teeth so his cosmetic work is not affected by future procedures. If a patient needs fillings, a composite resin material may be utilized to promote uniformly-colored teeth without obvious silver placements.
What treatments are performed in a Smile Makeover
Below are brief descriptions of some of the aesthetic solutions Dr. Gaertner may discuss during consultations at his South Florida office. By having an idea of the work he may perform, patients can make educated decisions about how to improve the look of their smile.
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Dental Implants
Surgically installed in the upper and lower jawbones using metal screws, implant dentistry aims for the total restoration that may be necessary following tooth loss. When a tooth is no longer rooted in the jawbone, the area of bone loses stimulation and calcium, causing it to shrink. This can cause a person to appear much older than they are and lead to facial collapse since the upper and lower jawbones maintain the framework for the mid and lower face. Even if there is bone loss in the area, however, implants can usually be placed. In some cases, this will require bone grafting. The grafting material may be supplied by a bony part of the patient’s body or synthetic material that can be added to the jaw may be used.
A metal screw, most commonly composed of titanium, will serve as the new artificial tooth root, promoting regeneration and continued support of the jaw bone. Over the next few months, the bone will fuse with the screw to create a type of fusion that is similar to the natural root of the tooth. A crown will be created to serve as the visible tooth portion of the implant and will be designed to match any remaining teeth in the mouth. In some cases where a patient has lost an entire upper or lower row of teeth, Dr. Gaertner can utilize the All-on-4 or Teeth-in-a-Day methods (one-day cosmetic dentistry) where four screws are placed, which is sufficient to install a row of teeth. With a single loss or a few missing teeth, the dentist may opt to place individual screws for each implant. Implant dentistry is customized to the patient’s needs to ensure a beautiful smile.
Recovery After Dental Implants
The recovery process following the placement of dental implants is critical. This period can span several months, as it involves allowing the implant to properly fuse with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. During this time, patients may need to adhere to a diet of soft foods and maintain meticulous oral hygiene to prevent complications. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the implants are integrating successfully.
Dental Bridges
Patients suffering from tooth loss may choose to complete their full set of teeth by undergoing bridge work. One of the main qualifiers for this procedure is the existence of healthy teeth on either side of the gap to serve as a dual-sided anchor for the artificial tooth. The adjacent teeth are abraded and crowned so they can form a bridge where the missing tooth or teeth are replaced in the central part of the dental work. Patients with extensive tooth loss may not be ideal candidates to receive a dental bridge since there must be existing natural teeth for support. A bridge is a non-surgical solution used for minor tooth loss. For patients with more missing teeth, implant dentistry may be a better option.
Recovery Following Dental Bridges
The recovery time for dental bridges is generally shorter compared to implants. Patients might experience some sensitivity or discomfort initially, which usually subsides within a few days. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene and follow specific care instructions provided by Dr. Gaertner to ensure the longevity of the bridge and to maintain overall oral health.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a replacement of the portion of the tooth that sits above the gum line. Created from a durable ceramic material, these artificial teeth cap the underlying tooth, which has been treated and abraded due to decay or other structural issues. Dental crowns can also be placed when patients dislike the look of the existing tooth or teeth.
The first step of the process is the shaping of the natural tooth to accommodate the ceramic cap. It will be sanded down so that the artificial tooth can fit snugly over the top of it. Dr. Gaertner will then take an impression of the modified area of the mouth. A mold is formed and a crown will be created by an expert dental laboratory team. The crown will match the color and look of the existing teeth and will be an appropriate height to maintain the patient’s bite pattern.
Before having the crown permanently bonded to the remaining natural tooth, a temporary crown will be placed. This ensures the remaining portion of the natural tooth below is protected from bacteria and maintains a normal look. Once the crown is ready for placement, Dr. Gaertner will dissolve the water-based glue and permanently bond the artificial tooth to the location. Crowns are expected to last 15 years or longer.
Healing Process for Dental Crowns
After receiving dental crowns, patients might experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, particularly to hot and cold temperatures. This usually diminishes within a few days. During recovery, it’s important to avoid chewing hard foods directly on the newly crowned tooth to prevent any damage. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene are key to maintaining the health and appearance of the crown.
PATIENT RESULTS
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary
Dental Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an excellent way to improve the look of the teeth without impacting their structural integrity. Because the fronts of the teeth are the only visible portions, veneers are designed to enhance this part of each treated tooth. Composed of a thin porcelain shell, veneers are bonded to the tooth’s surface following a procedure where a minimal amount of enamel is removed from the tooth. Dental veneers can be created to offer a permanently whiter smile, to change the shape of the teeth, and to create a more aligned smile with straighter teeth. Veneers are popular with patients seeking to create a permanent and beautiful smile through a less invasive method than other treatment options. While dental implants are performed as a total tooth replacement, and crowns and bridges require extensive modification of existing teeth, porcelain veneers are performed as a surface treatment.
Post-Treatment Care for Dental Veneers
Recovery from dental veneers is usually swift and uneventful. Patients may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold due to enamel removal during the procedure. It’s essential to avoid biting on hard objects to prevent chipping or damaging the veneers. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are important for maintaining the longevity of the veneers.
Professional Teeth Whitening
After learning more about the above restorative dentistry methods, current and prospective patients may have determined that they do not need an in-depth procedure and only wish to make minor changes to their smile. Professional tooth whitening is a non-invasive, non-surgical in-office procedure that does not require any changes to the existing teeth. Through a bleaching gel and an accelerating light, stains from the teeth are uniformly removed.
It should be noted that some tooth discolorations, such as those that are caused by a dying root structure cannot be whitened through this method. A root canal may be necessary to save the tooth and improve its appearance. Dental crowns and implants are composed of synthetic materials and will also not change color after a teeth whitening treatment. Patients should also be aware that due to varying colors of dentin, which is the part of the tooth below the enamel, results will vary as the enamel is transparent.
Recovery After Professional Teeth Whitening
Recovery from teeth whitening is typically quick, with many patients resuming normal activities immediately. Some individuals might experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation. It’s advisable to avoid foods and drinks that can cause dental stains for a period of time following the treatment to maintain a white smile.
Invisalign®
One of the best ways to transform a smile is by permanently straightening the teeth. Through the use of nearly invisible braces, patients can see optimal results in about 12 months. Not only do properly aligned teeth create a universally appealing smile, but straight teeth also promote better oral health. The teeth are easier to brush and floss and pressure are distributed more evenly. Invisalign also corrects bite issues that can detract from the look of a patient’s smile and improves the wear patterns of the teeth.
Post-Treatment Care for Invisalign®
Unlike traditional braces, there is less discomfort and adjustment time. Patients should follow the treatment plan diligently and attend regular check-ups to ensure the aligners are effectively straightening the teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry: An Anti-Aging Treatment
As people age, their teeth may shift, stain, and wear unfavorably. Cosmetic dentists are specially trained to address all aesthetic issues that occur in the mouth due to age. From replacing missing teeth with dental implants to repairing existing teeth with crowns and bridges or providing overall whitening, cosmetic dentistry procedures can fully renew a patient’s youthful smile.
Recovery in Cosmetic Dentistry
Recovery in anti-aging cosmetic dentistry varies based on the specific treatments undertaken. Procedures like tooth replacements or restorations might have a longer healing period, while others like teeth whitening have minimal recovery time. The key to a successful recovery in cosmetic dentistry is following Dr. Gaertner’s post-treatment care instructions and maintaining consistent oral hygiene to preserve the cosmetic and health benefits of the treatments.
Common Risks Associated with Dental Procedures
Every dental procedure, from simple to complex, carries certain risks. For instance, teeth whitening can sometimes lead to temporary tooth enamel sensitivity, while more invasive treatments like dental implants may pose risks such as infection or gum disease. Understanding these risks is integral to making an informed decision about your dental treatment.
Specific Risks for Various Procedures
- Teeth Whitening: This can occasionally result in heightened sensitivity of the tooth enamel or irritated gums. In some cases, uneven whitening may occur, leading to a patchy appearance.
- Dental Implants: There’s a risk of infection at the implant site, possible injury to surrounding teeth or blood vessels, and in rare cases, nerve damage which could cause pain, numbness, or tingling.
- Orthodontic Treatments for Misaligned or Crooked Teeth: While treatments like Invisalign are generally safe, they can sometimes lead to discomfort or mild pain, issues with jaw alignment, and in rare cases, tooth decay if proper hygiene is not maintained.
- Veneers: These involve the removal of a thin layer of tooth enamel, which can rarely lead to increased tooth sensitivity or even damage to the underlying tooth structure.
Minimizing Risks through Expert Care
Dr. Gaertner is committed to minimizing these risks through expert care and advanced techniques. Pre-treatment examinations help in identifying any potential oral health issues that could affect the outcome of your smile makeover. Additionally, the use of state-of-the-art equipment and adherence to stringent sterilization protocols significantly reduce the risk of complications.
The Investment in Your Smile: Understanding Costs
Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning
The journey towards a gorgeous smile begins with an initial consultation. Here, Dr. Gaertner assesses your oral health, discusses your aesthetic goals, and develops a customized treatment plan. This stage is crucial for understanding the scope and costs of the complete smile makeover. Costs may vary based on the complexity of dental issues like crooked teeth, discolored teeth, or misaligned teeth.
Breakdown of Costs for Different Procedures
Each dental procedure within your treatment plan comes with its own set of costs. Simple procedures like teeth whitening to address dental stains may be relatively affordable. However, more complex treatments such as correcting misaligned teeth with Invisalign, or dental restorations like veneers and implants to enhance your facial appearance and achieve a white smile, can be more expensive. It’s important to discuss these costs in detail to plan your financial investment effectively.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015
Why Choose Dr. Gaertner of Bliss Dental?
- As the son of a dentist, Dr. Gaertner‘s passion for dentistry began at an early age. Following high school, Dr. Gaertner attended Nova Southeastern University in South Florida, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology and then graduated with his Doctorate of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree. Dr. Gaertner has practiced dentistry in both the United States and his home country of Belgium and now calls the Miami area home.
- He practices a variety of dentistry, including cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers, dental crowns, porcelain veneers, root canal treatments, and Invisalign. Dr. Gaertner has also integrated the use of dental lasers and Botox injections into his state-of-the-art dental and oral care practice.
- Bliss Dental is a full-service facility offering top-notch, compassionate care and providing services ranging from routine dental care and endodontics to cosmetic and restorative dentistry that enhance patients’ smiles.
Smile Makeover FAQs
Cosmetic dentists aim to create better-looking teeth for each patient. The procedures are often elective and not necessary to a person’s dental health but improve overall attractiveness. Cosmetic dentistry can address issues like tooth placement, shape, and color. In some cases, treatments that are performed out of necessity to replace missing teeth or correct improper alignment address both function and form.
Chips can occur through trauma to the teeth, certain foods, or even tooth grinding or certain wear patterns. Minor chips in certain teeth may be repaired by composite bonding. The same tooth-colored material used to fill cavities can be used to replace missing natural material.
Yes, in most cases metal alloy fillings can be replaced by composite resin or other durable, natural-looking materials. Silver-colored fillings appear dark in the mouth and serve as an obvious signal that a person has had dental work done. The teeth will appear lighter and healthier with tooth-colored fillings.
In some cases, when procedures are medically necessary to improve a patient’s oral health, procedures are covered by dental insurance. For example, many plans will cover orthodontia (including Invisalign), dental implants, and dental crown or bridge restorations. Dental insurance may not cover the placement of veneers, metal filling replacements for color-match purposes, or tooth chip repair.
Yes, Dr. Gaertner can use light buffing techniques to smooth the mamelons or the protuberances that may remain on certain teeth. This helps the teeth to appear more mature, as mamelons often appear in youth. The procedure also helps to create a more uniform smile.
If you live near Kendall, FL, Bliss Dental offers smile makeover among its services, and is conveniently located at 8501 SW 124th Ave Ste 104 Kendall, FL 33183