Smile makeover treatment can include several cosmetic and restorative procedures, but the right plan depends on your teeth, bite, goals, and oral health. If you are researching what is included in a smile makeover at a Bakersfield cosmetic dentist, you probably want clear answers about which treatments may be part of the process, how they work together, and whether the results can look natural.
At Bakersfield Smile Design, Dr. Kenneth Krauss helps patients build smile makeover plans that fit real needs, not a one-size-fits-all template. With more than 20 years of experience and nearly 2,000 full-mouth smile restorations completed, he focuses on treatment that improves appearance while also respecting comfort, function, and long-term dental health.
This matters because a smile makeover is not one procedure. It is a personalized combination of treatments chosen to improve how your smile looks, feels, and works.
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan that combines two or more dental procedures to improve the appearance and function of your smile. Instead of focusing on just one issue, it looks at the full picture, including tooth color, shape, spacing, alignment, wear, gum display, and missing teeth.
Some patients want to brighten stained teeth and close small gaps. Others need a more complete approach that includes replacing missing teeth, correcting worn enamel, or improving bite balance. The point of a smile makeover is to choose the right mix of treatments for your needs, not to add procedures you do not need.
At Bakersfield Smile Design, that process starts with listening. Dr. Krauss looks at your goals, your oral health, your facial features, and how your teeth function together before recommending any treatment.
What Can Be Included in a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover is a comprehensive cosmetic dentistry plan tailored to your unique goals. It can include one or several treatments, such as veneers, teeth whitening, dental crowns, dental bonding, Invisalign clear aligners, dental implants, and gum contouring. The exact combination of restorative or cosmetic procedures depends on what you want to improve about your smile and what is necessary to ensure its long term health.
Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and overall oral structure. This assessment, combined with a detailed discussion about your aesthetic preferences, will form the foundation of your personalized treatment plan. A smile makeover is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating a beautiful smile that is also healthy and functional.
Here are some of the most common procedures that may be part of a smile makeover:
Can porcelain veneers be part of a smile makeover?
Yes, porcelain veneers are one of the most common and transformative smile makeover treatments. Veneers are thin, custom made shells of high quality ceramic that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They are an excellent solution for correcting a variety of cosmetic concerns, including discoloration, chips, cracks, gaps, or minor misalignments.
The process for getting porcelain veneers typically involves a few appointments. First, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a very small amount of enamel. This step ensures the veneers fit naturally and do not look bulky. Next, impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians craft your custom veneers. You may wear temporary veneers while your permanent ones are being made. Once your permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will check their fit and color before permanently bonding them to your teeth. The result is a durable, stain resistant, and incredibly natural looking smile that can last for many years with proper care.
How does teeth whitening enhance a smile?
Teeth whitening is another popular and effective treatment often included in a smile makeover. Over time, teeth can become stained or discolored due to factors like age, diet (coffee, tea, red wine), and smoking. Professional teeth whitening can dramatically brighten your smile, making you look younger and more vibrant.
There are two primary methods for professional teeth whitening. The first is an in office treatment, which provides the fastest and most dramatic results. During this procedure, a powerful whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a special light. The entire process usually takes about an hour, and you can leave the dental office with a smile that is several shades brighter.
The second option is a custom take home whitening kit provided by your dentist. This involves creating custom fitted trays that you will fill with a professional grade whitening gel and wear for a specified period each day. While this method takes longer to achieve the final result, typically a week or two, it offers the convenience of whitening your teeth in the comfort of your own home and can be more suitable for individuals with sensitive teeth.
What is the role of dental crowns?
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are frequently used in smile makeovers to restore teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or misshapen. A crown is a tooth shaped covering that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth, strengthening it and improving its appearance, shape, and alignment.
Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal alloys. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often preferred for smile makeovers because they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. The procedure involves preparing the tooth, taking an impression, and placing a temporary crown while the permanent one is fabricated. Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented into place, fully restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
How does dental bonding work?
Dental bonding is a quick, minimally invasive, and cost effective treatment for correcting minor cosmetic flaws. It involves applying a tooth colored composite resin to the tooth to repair chips, close gaps, or change the shape and color of a tooth.
During the bonding procedure, the dentist first etches the surface of the tooth to help the resin adhere. Then, the putty like resin is applied, molded, and sculpted into the desired shape. A special light is used to harden the material, after which it is trimmed and polished to match the rest of your teeth. The entire process can often be completed in a single visit, making it a convenient option for immediate smile improvements.
Can Invisalign clear aligners straighten teeth?
For individuals with crooked or misaligned teeth, Invisalign clear aligners offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign is a key component of many smile makeovers because straight teeth are not only more attractive but also easier to clean and maintain.
The Invisalign system uses a series of custom made, clear plastic trays that gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions. You will wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series. The aligners are removable, so you can eat, drink, brush, and floss as you normally would. Treatment times vary depending on the complexity of your case but can deliver a beautifully straight smile without the look and feel of metal braces.
Are dental implants included in smile makeovers?
Dental implants are the gold standard solution for replacing missing teeth and are a crucial part of many smile makeovers. A missing tooth can not only affect your confidence but also lead to other dental problems, such as shifting teeth and bone loss in the jaw.
A dental implant consists of a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root. Over time, the post fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation. A custom made crown is then attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of a natural tooth. Dental implants look, feel, and function just like your own teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Schedule Your Smile Makeover Consultation Today
Are you ready to achieve the beautiful, confident smile you have always wanted? A smile makeover can transform not only your appearance but also your quality of life. The first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced cosmetic dentist. During this visit, you can discuss your goals, ask questions, and receive a personalized treatment plan designed just for you. Do not wait any longer to invest in your smile and your confidence. Contact our office today to book your smile makeover consultation and begin your journey to a healthier, more radiant smile.
