How Long Can a Smile Makeover Last with Proper Maintenance?

A vibrant smile has the power to light up a room, boost self-confidence, and leave lasting impressions. However, not everyone is born with a picture-perfect grin. This is where a smile makeover comes into play — a series of cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures tailored to address individual concerns and enhance one's overall appearance. Are your teeth misaligned, discolored, or missing? If so, you might be a good candidate for a smile makeover. For those residing near New York, NY, Dr. Stella Oh at Madison Avenue Dentists can help. With her expertise in cosmetic dentistry and prosthodontics, she's aptly skilled in addressing the function and aesthetics of dental issues you may face.

Procedures involved in a smile makeover

A smile makeover isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Rather, it encompasses a range of comprehensive treatments designed according to individual needs. Some of the most common procedures include:

• Veneers: Thin layers of porcelain attached to the front surface of the teeth, ideal for fixing discoloration, gaps, or misalignment.
• Crowns: Caps placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and appearance.
• Bonding: Application of a tooth-colored resin material to repair chipped, broken, or decayed teeth.
• Tooth-colored fillings: Natural-looking fillings that match the shade of your teeth.
• Teeth whitening: A popular procedure that employs professional-grade bleaching agents to brighten and remove stains from teeth. Whether from years of drinking coffee or natural discoloration, teeth whitening can be a pivotal component of a smile makeover, offering a refreshed, youthful appearance.
• Bridges: Used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between two anchoring teeth.

Results: A blend of function and aesthetics

A successful smile makeover goes beyond just beautifying your teeth. While the aesthetic transformation is undeniable —with whiter, straighter, and more uniformly spaced teeth — functional benefits can't be overlooked. Our dental practitioners can effectively address issues like bite misalignment, chewing difficulties, or speech impediments caused by missing or misaligned teeth. It's the perfect blend of form and function.

Maintaining your newfound smile

Once you've invested time, effort, and resources into your smile makeover, ensuring its longevity is crucial. Here's how:

• Regular dental check-ups: Routine visits help detect and prevent potential issues early on.
• Proper oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash are essential.
• Avoiding hard or sticky foods: These can damage veneers, crowns, or other restorations.
• No smoking: Tobacco can stain teeth and reduce the lifespan of restorations.
• Wearing protective gear: Always wear a mouth guard if you're involved in sports or other physical activities.

The power of a transformed smile

A smile makeover can last many years with proper maintenance. Depending on the procedures involved and the individual's oral care habits, some aspects of a smile makeover can last 10 – 15 years or even longer. By practicing good oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups, and following dentists' recommendations, the results of a smile makeover can be maintained for an extended period.

At Madison Avenue Dentists in New York, NY, we believe in a personalized approach to every smile makeover. With Dr. Stella Oh's expertise in cosmetic dentistry and a dedicated team, we're committed to giving you the vibrant smile and confidence you deserve. Schedule a consultation today and embark on your journey toward a brighter, more confident you.