Although our ‘public’ smiles are temporarily concealed behind masks, the masking requirement is one that will be resolved in due time. As vaccination rates go up and boosters are readily available, we will all be able to breathe a little easier and resume the act of smiling!
So, why should you think about improving the appearance of your smile right now?
Because start-to-finish treatment can take several weeks, now is an advisable point in being smile-ready for going mask-less. As the holiday season approaches, imagine… your new smile enhances your appearance and self-confidence! You’ll feel more outgoing and motivated to be socially active. Too, smiling with friends and smiling in public settings can be the perfect pick-me-up mood-wise. It’s true!
Research has shown that the mere act of smiling actually boosts one’s state of mind. Smiling causes the brain to release a chemical known as endorphins. These trigger a feeling of happiness, even when the smile is not authentic. So, the next time you have to “fake” a smile, just know it’s working to your advantage!
Now is actually a perfect time to proceed with smile enhancements. And, our dental office offers advantages of technology, skills in cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, and excellence in dental lab choice. These give our patients the very best in treatment outcomes.
Just how do these particular features provide you with a beautiful smile versus what another dental office can provide? Let’s look at a few…
• Technology: A smile is more than the size, shade and shape of teeth. The gum tissues that surround the teeth are a framework of sorts for the smile as a whole. The amount of gum tissue that’s visible over each tooth and the shape of the arch are important factors that we take into consideration when creating a beautiful smile. Too, the uniformity of this tissue is what creates the important “smile line” that impacts the finished smile’s appearance.
For example, gum tissues of varying heights over the teeth most visible in a smile can create a jumbled look. Or, for people who have a “gummy smile” where too much gum tissue can be seen over teeth, a procedure known as a Gingivectomy can totally change an individual’s smiling confidence.
To ensure the proper level of gum arches over teeth, we utilize a dental laser when needed. This beautifully contours gum tissues while sealing the tissues as it goes. This minimizes (or even eliminates) bleeding and helps to speed healing.
• Advanced Skills: Unfortunately, about anyone with a dental doctorate can label themselves a “cosmetic dentist”. However, the results of a truly skilled cosmetic dentist can make a world of difference.
While completing graduate studies at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, I was awarded top ranking in crown and bridge procedures. After receiving my dental doctorate, I chose to complete advanced training in crowns, bridges, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and bite disorders (including TMJ). To accomplish this to the highest degree, I completed advanced training through one of the most renowned dental training institutes, the LVI Institute For Advanced Dental Studies. Here, I received the high ranking of a Fellow and am also a member of the International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics.
However, the look, feel and longevity of a smile is but part of the ultimate goal when it comes to cosmetic dentistry in our Shelby Twp dental office. Through the LVI Institute, I have also completed over 300 hours of extensive training to achieve the designation of a Neuromuscular Dentist.
Neuromuscular Dentistry is based on the understanding that all cranio-facial structures must work harmoniously during chewing, speaking, and in resting positions. This is largely based on having proper bite alignment. Without this, the imbalance in one area can have far-reaching effect with results that can lead to costly repairs and painful problems, including frequent headaches and migraines.
A Neuromuscular Dentist is able to incorporate neuromuscular considerations into cosmetic dental procedures or correct associated problems that have existed for years.
• Smile Balance To Facial Features: Imagine a “toothy smile” on a rather small head, or a smile of rather short teeth on an individual of tall stature. There is a balance of gums and teeth that combine to create a smile each individual wears beautifully. Our goal is to create a natural-looking smile for each patient based on what will ultimately flatter their unique facial features so the smile is an overall complement.
Tooth shade is also a factor that is taken into consideration. For example, when upper “enhanced” teeth are a different shade than the teeth below (that are often visible in open smiles or laughter), the overall look is mismatched and less than flattering. We acknowledge factors such as these into treatment planning so things like whitening can be a part of the process rather than an “oops” that must be dealt with eventually. In our Macomb County dental office, we offer the Zoom 2 in-office tooth whitening system. This is a comfortable, one-hour process that provides beautiful, long-lasting whitening. Once the teeth are lightened to an appropriate level, the porcelain veneers or crowns (‘caps’) can be shade-matched so the smile, as a whole, is a beautiful part of an individual’s overall look.
When it comes to improving the appearance of your smile, we offer all options in cosmetic dentistry. We are also known for making patient comfort a priority and can include oral sedation into treatment, when desired. However, it is your choice in the dentist who plans and performs your treatment that will have the greatest impact of your results.
I have a friend who, after years of contemplating, decided to proceed with a Rhinoplasty (a “nose job”). Because this would have a dramatic impact on her facial appearance, she did her homework on plastic surgeons. The one she chose was terrific and she was thrilled with the outcome. Years later, she shared this with me and mentioned a surprising perk. Other than immediate family members, no one knew about the procedure. Yet, she suddenly began receiving compliments that she “looked great” or that everything she wore was suddenly “so beautiful”. The surgery provided her with a nose that blended with other facial features in a beautifully, balanced way.
If you’re considering changing the appearance of your smile, let’s discuss your options during a free consultation appointment. During this time, I can make recommendations and answer your questions about treatment time, comfort, and anticipated costs. While you’re here, you can also speak with our Financial Coordinator. She will be happy to discuss various payment plans, most are interest-free with no down payment required.
De-mask with your beautiful, new smile! And, just in time for the holidays! Call 586-739-2155 or tap here to begin.
