The Role of Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry in a Smile Makeover

Improving a person’s smile is easier said than done. However, transforming a less than perfect set of teeth into a beautiful smile is what Drs. Stephen Malone and Michael Costa do best. The doctors of Knoxville Smiles at Malone & Costa Dentistry invest considerable time and resources to study each person’s individual concerns before moving forward with treatment. There are four major points our dentists address when planning a case which have to do with comfort, health, function and aesthetics. An in-depth assessment is done with all four of these points in mind. Patients are led through a process of discovery with their own personal cosmetic and health goals in mind. During this process, patients are involved with decisions about outcome and cost, and only when expectations are met does the dentist move forward with appropriate treatment. When proper time and attention is taken to plan a beautiful outcome, the difficult task of improving smiles becomes a lot easier!

How Cosmetic Dentistry plays in Restoring a Smile

At your initial visit, you will have the opportunity to share your concerns about the current condition of your mouth, gums, and teeth. After gathering and analyzing data, your dentist will provide an opportunity for dialogue which will give you a truthful assessment about what treatment options are possible.

There is no such thing as a “typical smile makeover” at KnoxvilleSmiles. Our doctors create custom cosmetic work based on what you want and what your budget will allow. Dr. Malone and Dr. Costa have both invested in the most current technology in the industry. The newest technology and materials allow our doctors to be creative while also being conservative – meaning they have options to prevent destruction of enamel in order to achieve beautiful and natural-looking cosmetic outcomes.

At Malone & Costa Dentistry, smile makeovers can be very simple or very complex – depending on your desires. The options for improving a smile are varied, but will be chosen with your particular needs in mind, and can include things like straightening misaligned teeth, making the teeth look more uniform in size, whitening, reshaping the gumline, replacing teeth and more. Sometimes it is necessary to place porcelain veneers, but often our talented doctors can employ the method of bonding, which is truly an artform and is less destructive to enamel. Not only is bonding less destructive, but it is reversible, repairable and changeable.

Whichever method you and your dentist choose, you can rest assured that you will have all of your questions answered before treatment begins. In fact, Dr. Malone and Dr. Costa prefer that you have two visits prior to any cosmetic work. The first visit is an investment on their part to learn about you and to gather important data. When they have a full understanding of what you want to achieve, and have the correct data, they can properly study and allocate time to your case. After the data gathering visit, and for the next several days, the dentist works on digital and printed models to provide a “mock up” of what your best options are, based on your input. When you arrive at your second appointment, the doctor will show you, either on the printed models or with digital renditions, the expected outcome. You will have the opportunity to voice your opinion, make changes or present ideas. Once you have ironed out the details with your dentist, a final treatment plan can be presented and the precision work can begin.

How Restoration Dentition Plays a Role in Smile Makeover

As patients describe what they want with regard to cosmetics, our doctors listen and develop a plan that may not only provide a “Hollywood Smile”, but also restore proper function. Often, patients do not realize that function must be a high priority in smile makeovers. If front teeth are altered and made to look good, but unintentionally change the way your teeth fit or function, there can be poor consequences for other teeth in the future. If close attention is not paid to how your teeth work together in a new way, biting forces may shift – creating an opportunity for breakage of teeth that are already weakened by chips or fracture lines. When considering options for your smile makeover, Dr. Costa and Dr. Malone will educate you about the current condition of your entire dentition and how your decisions about cosmetic changes may affect the rest of your teeth. Our conscientious dentists will make sure that the design they present will include a beautiful smile and healthy, properly-functioning teeth for many years to come.

Once again, every case is based on the needs of the individual. Treatment options could include anything from simple fillings to crowns, computer-guided implants or zironia dentures that are permanently implanted. Patients at Malone & Costa Dentistry are fortunate to have several excellent options.

The Aftercare Program

Following a cosmetic and restorative dental procedure, it is important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. Visit Dr. Malone and Dr. Costa regularly so they can inspect the work you have completed, determine if any corrective measures need to be taken regarding homecare or protection, and have the bacterial load in your mouth reduced with regular professional cleanings. If you carefully adhere to the doctor’s instructions, your cosmetic and functional investment will last for many years. The longevity of your dental work can only be determined by your commitment to maintain proper care.

Is It Time To Learn More About Your Options For A Beautiful Restored Smile?

If you think it is time for a smile makeover or would like to learn more about what our accomplished dentists can do for you, call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen K. Malone or Dr. Michael Costa at Knoxville Smiles at Malone & Costa Dentistry in Knoxville, TN. Our experienced and highly trained staff will help you to achieve the smile of your dreams!

Call (865) 426-1776 to schedule your appointment with Drs Malone or Costa of Knoxville Smiles at Malone & Costa Dentistry, or email us at appointments@knoxvillesmiles.com.

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