A “Smile makeover” is one of the most exciting and wonderful aspects of dentistry today.  The goal of esthetic dentistry is to help anyone have a healthier, well-functioning, brighter smile, with more even looking, straight teeth.  A smile makeover changes more than appearance.  Patients feel healthier, more youthful, vibrant, attractive and confident enough to smile.  Done properly, a functional bite is preserved or created, and predictable, long-lasting results are achieved.

One point that is very important for patient’s to understand prior to having cosmetic procedures for quickly creating a beautiful smile is that they are irreversible procedures.  By that I mean a quick smile makeover often involves removing healthy tooth structure on natural teeth to “straighten the teeth”.  This is fine as long as the patient understands what is being done and that there is also the option to straighten the teeth orthodontically for a similar result.  Yes, it takes longer, but natural tooth structure is preserved in this manner.  Through a slower, comprehensive makeover process, only teeth which have been damaged (cracked, chipped, worn away, infected or irreversibly stained) need to be restored with crowns, veneers or bonding.  Even though cosmetics are some of my favorite procedures to provide, I am still in favor of preserving natural tooth structure when it is possible.  Orthodontics is a way to create a beautiful smile if you aren’t in a hurry.

Most people think of braces being on children.  This is true, but patients with orthodontic problems can benefit from treatment at nearly any age.  Braces aren't just for kids.  It is never too late for orthodontic treatment, more and more adults are realizing the importance of straight teeth not only for looks, but also for better function as well.  People with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) concerns, problems of breaking teeth and uneven forces in their bite can all be helped.

If orthodontics is what you decide is best for your situation, your orthodontist/dentist will know what appliance is best for your particular problem.  Often though, the patient has a choice.  The most common type of braces involve brackets, metal or clear ceramic/plastic that are bonded to teeth.  On occasion, the "lingual" type of braces are used.  These have brackets that attach to the back of teeth, hidden from view.  This type is often more difficult to do and may require longer treatment time.  These types use wires to move the teeth to the desired position.  Another method is called “Invisalign”.  This method utilizes a series of clear removable trays that systematically move the teeth.  These work well, but cannot be used on all patients and most likely will involve a greater expense.

Adults often ask how long they will have to wear braces.  That depends upon your treatment plan.  The more complicated your spacing or bite problem, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment.  Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 18 and 30 months, followed by the wearing of a retainer.

Another critical aspect of braces is oral hygiene.  Braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped.  Brush carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.  Take time to floss between braces and under wires with the help of a floss-threader.  Have your teeth cleaned at regular intervals to keep your gums and teeth healthy.  Insufficient cleaning while wearing braces can cause enamel staining and breakdown around brackets or bands.

As I mentioned, I love to do cosmetic dentistry and they are the most appropriate procedures in many instances, but remember, if orthodontics will work for you, it’s never too late to straighten your smile!  As always, if you have any questions e-mail me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Have a great week.