At Modern Dental of Manhattan, we offer a wide range of cosmetic and restorative services. Two terms that are commonly used interchangeably are “smile makeover” and “full mouth reconstruction”. They may sound similar, but these procedures are quite different. Here, our team of doctors explains the differences between the two so you can be well-informed about your potential treatment.
What is a smile makeover?
The main purpose of a smile makeover is to enhance the appearance and aesthetics of your smile. This comprehensive treatment includes two or more cosmetic procedures that can dramatically improve your overall appearance and confidence.
Who qualifies for a smile makeover?
To be eligible for a smile makeover, patients must be in excellent oral health. This means that any decay, periodontal disease, or other serious dental issues must be addressed beforehand.
Otherwise, virtually any patient who is dissatisfied with the appearance of their smile can qualify for a smile makeover. During a consultation at our Manhattan practice, our doctors can talk with you about your treatment options.
What procedures are involved in a smile makeover?
The wonderful thing about a smile makeover is that it is fully customized to the needs of each individual. As a result, one smile makeover won’t necessarily look like another. Here are some of the most commonly combined procedures included in this comprehensive treatment:
- Dental bonding: Your dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin material to alter the size or shape of the affected teeth.
- Porcelain veneers: Used to conceal cosmetic imperfections, such as chips, cracks, and discoloration, veneers are thin-but-strong ceramic shells that are attached to the front teeth surfaces.
- Teeth whitening: A dazzling smile is just one appointment away with in-office teeth whitening treatment.
- Invisalign®: A popular braces alternative, Invisalign uses clear thermoplastic aligners to shift the teeth into the proper positions.
- All-ceramic dental crowns: If a tooth needs added strength or reinforcement, a dental crown can cover the entire structure. Our all-ceramic crowns are natural looking and lifelike.
What is full mouth reconstruction?
Unlike a smile makeover, the primary goal of full mouth reconstruction is to reestablish oral health and function. This is a streamlined, comprehensive treatment that combines two or more restorative procedures to help patients achieve their dental health goals.
Who qualifies for full mouth reconstruction?
Anyone with significant oral health problems can qualify for full mouth reconstruction. This may include decayed, damaged, or missing teeth as well as gum disease, TMJ dysfunction, a misaligned bite, and more. Full mouth reconstruction focuses on treating multiple conditions within a short time period, giving patients the best chance for optimal, long-term oral health.
What procedures are involved in full mouth reconstruction?
There are several different treatments that can be included in full mouth reconstruction, depending on the needs of the individual. Some of the most common procedures include:
- Fillings: Small cavities can be repaired with dental fillings. At Modern Dental of Manhattan, we offer tooth-colored fillings for natural-looking results.
- Dental crowns: Moderate to large fillings often require a cap, or dental crown. These restorations fit over the entire tooth structure to provide additional strength and protection.
- Dental bridges: Consecutive tooth loss can have a negative impact on your function and health. A bridge replaces a row of missing teeth so you can chew and speak with ease.
- Dental implants: Implants replace missing teeth roots. Once healed, they can be restored with crowns, bridges, or dentures.
- Root canal therapy: If the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, root canal therapy is the only way to save it from extraction.
- Periodontal therapy: Gum disease wreaks havoc on your oral health. Our doctors offer periodontal therapy to eliminate infection and restore your smile.
- Dentures: Significant or total tooth loss can make routine tasks more difficult, such as speaking or eating. Dentures can replace several teeth or an entire dental arch so you can eat and speak in confidence.
Schedule an Appointment
Whether you need to restore your smile or enhance it, our team of doctors at Modern Dental of Manhattan can help. To learn more about our services, schedule a consultation at our practice by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 758-1000.