Anatomy of a Smile Makeover

Upper East Side Cosmetic Dentistry | Manhattan Dentist

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A proper smile can be pleasing, but in the case of patients who have suffered trauma or earlier improper procedures, it can be important to their well-being. Patients suffering from bite problems can have dietary problems from the inability to eat certain foods. Self-image is important too, and Dr. Lattinelli understands this when consulting with patients who desire or need a smile restoration. It is important for the dentist to have the proper tools and skills to perform restorations, but it is even more important that they listen to patients and understand their needs.

An attractive smile is a combination of features including color, size, contour, and the orientation of the teeth relative to the patient’s facial features. Dr. Lattinelli’s intent is to give patients the smile they want, not simply what he suggests. Successful dentistry and restoration is a partnership between the dentist and patient.

There are several steps to restoring a proper smile in a patient:

Diagnosis — The dentist must first understand the nature of the damage or improper tooth orientation that prevents a good smile profile. This is partly visual diagnosis, discussions with the patient about their dental history, and photographs or X-rays may be used for analysis.

Smile imaging — The next step is understanding what the patient desires, and visual style guides can be valuable to help patients understand what differences can occur with a selection of dental profiles. At this point, the dentist can review suggested smile profiles and help determine if they can be incorporated into a patient’s existing tooth structure. Even more valuable is when the dentist has digital smile comparisons and can add them to a patient’s photograph to show them what they can expect from a suggested smile profile.

Whitening — To provide the best result, whitening of the entire mouth will help set the base color for any restorative work. This may require a couple of sessions to establish the best teeth whitening effect.

Molds and Laboratory — The dentist will wish to make molds of the patient’s current teeth. These can then be modified to create temporary molds to show the modified smile when the work is completed. Once the patient has agreed to any changes, work can begin. The dentist will also do a shade analysis of the original teeth so any changes will match the rest of the patient’s mouth.

Preparation, Temporary Smile, and Permanent Restoration — The teeth may need surface preparation to prepare them for the permanent implants or surfaces. The molds made earlier can be made into temporary structures that will help the patient view their final new smile. The laboratory then prepares any permanent structures, and in a final visit they are installed in the patient’s mouth to create their new look.

This article is a simplification of the dental processes required to provide smile restoration. Dr. Lattinelli and his staff can discuss the procedure in great detail as needed to assure your total satisfaction with the process. If you are unhappy with your teeth and smile, contact Dr. Lattinelli today and ask us to discuss a smile makeover with you. You will not be disappointed with the improvements a new smile can make.