When you think about a smile makeover, you may picture treatments designed to improve the color, shape, size, or alignment of your teeth. But what happens if you also have tooth decay?
The good news is that having tooth decay does not necessarily mean you cannot improve the appearance of your smile. However, the health of your teeth needs to be considered before moving forward with cosmetic treatment. A smile makeover should address more than just the way your teeth look. Your health and condition of your teeth and gums must first be evaluated. That will determine which treatments are appropriate for your smile.
See a Smile Makeover Case Involving Tooth Decay
Dr. Schmid recently completed a smile makeover for a patient whose treatment involved addressing tooth decay, significant wear, and restoring the bite. Watch him discuss the smile transformation in the video below.
Addressing Tooth Decay in a Smile Makeover
Active tooth decay generally needs to be addressed before cosmetic treatment. A cavity occurs when bacteria and acids damage the tooth structure, and untreated decay can continue to progress. This means that if you are interested in a smile makeover but have areas of decay, your treatment plan may need to address those areas first.
Once the necessary dental treatment has been completed, your dentist can evaluate your teeth again. Then they will determine which cosmetic treatments may be appropriate. The specific approach depends on factors such as the location and extent of the decay, the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining, your overall oral health, and your cosmetic goals.
How Tooth Decay Can Affect Your Smile
Tooth decay is a dental health concern, but it can also affect the appearance of your smile.
Depending on its severity and location, decay can cause:
- Dark or discolored areas on the teeth
- Visible pits or holes
- Changes in the shape of a tooth
- Chipped or weakened areas
- Uneven-looking teeth
- Damage that affects the overall appearance of your smile
When multiple concerns are present, simply focusing on the cosmetic appearance of the teeth may not be enough. Your dentist needs to consider the condition of the teeth underneath the desired cosmetic result.
What Happens Before a Smile Makeover?
The first step is a comprehensive evaluation. During a consultation at Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Schmid will assess your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health. You will be able to discuss what you would like to change about your smile. This helps determine whether you are a candidate for cosmetic treatment and whether any dental concerns need to be addressed first.
If tooth decay is present, the appropriate restorative treatment may be necessary before moving forward with a cosmetic procedure. Once your teeth are healthy and restorative treatment is complete, your cosmetic treatment options can be part of a personalized smile makeover plan.
Can a Smile Makeover Address Teeth That Have Been Affected by Decay?
Typically, yes. For someone with several cosmetic concerns and a history of tooth decay, treatment may involve a combination of restorative and cosmetic dentistry. The goal is not simply to cover up damaged teeth, but to create a treatment plan that considers both the health and appearance of the smile.
This is why a consultation is an important first step. There is no single treatment that is right for every patient, and the recommended approach will depend on your individual needs.
Can You Get Veneers If You Have Tooth Decay?
If you are considering porcelain veneers and have cavities or other dental health concerns, those issues generally need to be evaluated and addressed before veneers are placed.
Veneers can improve the appearance of the visible surface of the teeth, but they do not replace the need for healthy teeth and gums. During your consultation, Dr. Schmid can evaluate your individual situation and determine the best treatment plan for you.
Your Smile Makeover Should Start With Healthy Teeth
A beautiful smile and a healthy smile go hand in hand. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth but also have concerns such as tooth decay, you do not necessarily have to choose between addressing your dental health and improving your smile. The first step is understanding the condition of your teeth and creating a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs.
If you are considering a smile makeover in Austin, TX, schedule a FREE consultation with Dr. Schmid at Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry. During your consultation, you can discuss your concerns, learn about your treatment options, and find out what may be possible for your smile.