Smile Makeover Treatment Timeline: What to Expect
Patients seeking a dramatic aesthetic enhancement can benefit from a smile makeover at Gulch Dental Studio in Nashville, TN. One of the most common questions patients have about the smile makeover process is how long will the treatment take?
Of course, the answer will depend on each individual case, as no two smile makeovers will be the same. Just as a full mouth reconstruction combines two or more restorative procedures, a smile makeover combines two or more cosmetic procedures for a comprehensive result.
Here, our team explores the smile makeover treatment timeline by discussing some of the most common procedures performed in this process.
Teeth Whitening
A simple cosmetic treatment that can yield impressive results is professional teeth whitening. At our practice, we offer a few different options based on our patients’ individual needs and preferences.
Those who choose in-office whitening can achieve a dramatically brighter smile, up to eight shades lighter, in just one hour. Those who opt for take-home bleaching kits will see comparable results. However, it will take approximately two to three weeks to achieve the desired shade.
When combining teeth whitening with other cosmetic procedures, the whitening should be performed first. Therefore, any new restorations can be color-matched to your new shade.
Dental Bonding
One of the most versatile treatments in dentistry, dental bonding can usually be completed in a single office visit. To perform this procedure, your doctor will strategically apply a composite resin material to the teeth. This process can correct minor aesthetic flaws, such as cracks, chips, discoloration, misalignment, or misshapen teeth.
Because dental bonding is non-invasive, treatment can be reversed at any point if desired. Due to the low cost of dental bonding, it is often chosen as an alternative to porcelain veneers.
It should be noted that bonding will need to be performed every few years to maintain results. However, with proper care, bonding can last upwards of ten years.
Porcelain Veneers
Fabricated from high-quality, natural-looking porcelain, veneers attach to the front surfaces of the teeth and can camouflage a wide range of cosmetic imperfections. Much like bonding, porcelain veneers can address chips, fractures, discoloration, and more.
Generally, this type of treatment takes two dental visits to complete. During the first appointment, your teeth will be prepared and impressions will be taken. Using these impressions, a skilled ceramist will craft your new veneers. In most cases, this process takes about one to two weeks. During your second visit, your doctor will check the fit of your veneers and bond them into place.
Invisalign®
Minor misalignments can detract from an otherwise beautiful smile. However, many patients with this cosmetic concern want to avoid wearing metal braces.
Invisalign is an excellent orthodontic alternative that can straighten your teeth using clear thermoplastic trays rather than metal bands and brackets.
The treatment timeline can vary for each patient, depending on the complexity of the case. Some individuals may complete treatment in just six months, while others may require up to 24 months.
BOTOX® Cosmetic
At Gulch Dental Studio, we offer BOTOX Cosmetic to complement your new smile. This treatment can smooth and reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance. Fortunately, this treatment can be completed in less than an hour at our office. Best of all, there is virtually zero downtime required.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you are ready to take a step toward your new smile, schedule a consultation at our practice. We can help you determine if a smile makeover is right for you. Contact us online or give us a call at (615) 334-0184.
