How to tell if a Smile Makeover is for you

Serving areas of Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI

Between work and family, when’s the last time you did something for yourself? Cosmetic dentistry makes it possible for almost anyone to achieve the smile of their dreams. For some, it takes multiple cosmetic procedures to get the smile they always wanted. In these cases, Dr. Christine Tenaglia, a cosmetic dentist in Okemos, can compose a treatment plan called a smile makeover. Not sure if a smile makeover is right for you? Read on to find out.

What makes the ideal candidate for a smile makeover?

• Being in good oral health – Poor dental hygiene or other oral problems can compromise the lifespan and effectiveness of many cosmetic and restorative procedures. Gum disease, for example, can cause several complications. Tenaglia Smiles offers a comprehensive program of treatment for gum disease. So, if you have gum disease, Dr. Tenaglia may recommend treatment for it before you get cosmetic dentistry. This would prolong the life span of your restorative dental work. 
• Being in good overall health – Certain systemic issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, can raise your risk of complications. You also may not be a viable candidate for more intensive procedures as part of a smile makeover if you are currently undergoing any type of radiation treatments. These issues likely would not disqualify you from less invasive procedures that may be performed in a smile makeover, such as a teeth whitening treatment.
• Good attendance with your dentist – The American Dental Association advises that everyone see their dentist once each six months for a check-up, which should include an examination and a dental cleaning. Have you been staying on schedule with your check-ups? Getting into a routine is important before work begins on a smile makeover. 
• Staying realistic – Modern cosmetic dentistry can transform smiles, but it’s also not magic. It takes time and multiple treatments that usually are scheduled at least several weeks apart. If your smile makeover in East Lansing includes receiving dental implants to replace missing teeth, it could take six or more months just to complete that part of the smile makeover.

Many dentists perform cosmetic procedures, but true cosmetic dentistry is not taught as part of the curriculum in standard dental school. Instead, they pursue instruction in the techniques and procedures of the specialization in post-graduate education. Before any cosmetic work begins, your cosmetic dentist should sit down with you for a consultation. This appointment is crucial to determining your candidacy for a smile makeover. At Tenaglia Smiles, this consultation entails a review of your medical history as well as an evaluation of your current dental health, which may involve taking X-rays to provide Dr. Tenaglia a look at your jawbone health. This appointment also is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and talk about your aesthetic goals.

Get a better smile in Okemos

The smile of your dreams is within your reach. Take the next step. Schedule a consultation with us by calling (517) 347-6733. Tenaglia Smiles welcomes patients of Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing.