The phrase “smile makeover” is a loaded one – it carries so many connotations. What do you think of when you see those words? A stereotypical Hollywood smile, with piano key teeth? A grin that makes you look like an entirely different person (and not in a good way)? Or something more subtle that fixes the visible flaws, and makes the smile stronger and more visually appealing?

In reality, “smile makeover” can mean just about anything. The only consistent aspect is that it alters something about your teeth. And your smile makeover should reflect your unique needs, preferences, and appearance, not a universal idea of what a smile should be. When you find the right cosmetic dentist, bringing your ideal teeth into your daily life will be a comfortable, exciting, and successful process.

If you’ve been hoping to change something about your grin, but have held back out of anxiety over what cosmetic treatment will really be like, read on to shatter a few widely-held misconceptions about cosmetic dentistry. If you’re looking for answers to your questions, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Okamura online or give us a call at (206) 362-3200. A cosmetic consultation costs you nothing, but opens up so many possibilities.

Cosmetic treatment can be simple

cosmetic-dentistry

Dental bonding takes just one appointment, and lasts for years

If you have dental anxiety, a busy schedule, or some other restriction that keeps you from spending much time in the dentist’s office, don’t worry – there are plenty of same-day cosmetic treatments. These options will allow you to make even dramatic changes to your teeth without making dramatic commitments. A few include:

  • Dental bonding – During bonding, Dr. Okamura shapes and places a piece of tooth-colored resin on one of your teeth. After hardening this resin with a special curing light, it will take on the look and feel of your surrounding teeth, and perform similarly. Bonding is ideal for patients with hard-to-whiten stains, gaps between teeth, cracks, or chips.

  • Teeth whitening – Whitening breaks up stains deep within your enamel, leaving behind a brighter and happier smile. If you whiten in the office, the results will take hold the same day, and if you whiten at home, you’ll see more gradual and subtle changes.

  • Contouring – Making your smile more symmetrical can be as simple as reshaping the edges of your teeth. The line formed by your top teeth can be gently contoured to bring out your smile’s best – and completed in one quick procedure (without anesthesia).

  • Ditching leftover candy – After the holiday in question is over, your kids will happily eat their candy for a while – and then they’ll get tired of it. But if there’s still candy left, they’ll feel obligated to keep eating, even if they’re not really enjoying it. Try finding a creative use for that candy that doesn’t involve eating!

Cosmetic dentistry doesn’t have to be expensive

The treatments we mentioned above aren’t just low on their time commitment; they also happen to be less costly than their more involved alternatives. When there isn’t a dental lab, multiple appointments, or porcelain restorations involved, you’ll be able to make over your smile without making a big dent in your budget. If you’re ever concerned about affording cosmetic procedures, talk to us – we may be able to help you find financing or some kind of payment plan.

Cosmetic dentists don’t compromise function for appearance

When you’re working with a skilled cosmetic dentist, you don’t have to worry that your final teeth will be pretty but less capable. Cosmetic dental work should never compromise your tooth strength, and the best cosmetic procedures actually improve it. If you struggle with tooth sensitivity, you’ll find that options like bonding and veneers leave you feeling more comfortable and more confident.

Some cosmetic procedures are covered by dental insurance

Depending on your insurance and your procedure, you may be able to receive at least partial coverage, which always helps with the financial load.

Still have questions about cosmetic dentistry? We’re here to help. Just give us a call.

Seattle Cosmetic Dentist | Cosmetic Dentist Seattle | Cosmetic Dentistry Seattle
Dr. Kim Dr. Kim

Dr. Kim Okamura

I'm Dr. Kim Okamura and this blog is a product of my love of dentistry. I dedicate it to all the patients I have served so that they may better understand my craft. The information here will give you and others the power to maintain and protect one of your most priceless gifts ... your SMILE.