I’m about to run for office. My teeth aren’t in the best-looking shape. I need to get a smile makeover because I know your smile makes a huge difference in how people view you. What I don’t want is that perfect, fake looking Hollywood smile. Is it possible to make sure the smile looks attractive without looking fake? Or would I be better served with a different procedure?
Steven C.
Dear Steven,
One of the incredible things about porcelain veneers is how completely flexible they are. While most patients go into this procedure wanting a celebrity smile, they can be made to order. So, your teeth can be made whiter and straighter, but you can also custom design some natural looking “flaws” to give them character. It will look like you have natural teeth which you take great care of.
The shape you make your teeth will have the biggest impact on your appearance. If you make them slightly boxier, they’ll appear more masculine and authoritative. Longer teeth are more youthful looking. The key to getting just want you want is choosing the right cosmetic dentist. They’ll sit with you and discuss exactly what look you’re going for and then work with you to design it. The best cosmetic dentists are equal part technically adept and artists.
So how can you be sure you’re getting the best cosmetic dentist? The easiest way is to look for someone in your area who is accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Accreditation is different than membership. Any dentist can join the AACD, but accreditation requires passing stringent exams as well as demonstrating artistry in your work through actual cases.
Very few dentists reach that level, but the ones who do are true artists. Like Dr. Rothwell, many of them have a beautiful smile guarantee, so you can feel confident you’ll get what you went in for.
As far as other procedures, composite bonding can do something similar, but not as well as porcelain veneers and they won’t hold up nearly as long.
I hope this helps.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.
