If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and noticed your face looking more tired or sunken than it used to, your smile might be part of the reason. Shifting teeth, the subtle wearing down of teeth, and bone loss in the jaw can all change your facial shape over time. In fact, loss of vertical dimension from worn-down teeth can lead to bite collapse, sunken cheeks, thinner-looking lips, and a more aged appearance.
The good news is you don’t need invasive plastic surgery to fix it. A personalized smile makeover can restore lost height in your bite, improve lip support and cheek support, and help your face look fuller and more youthful.
Read on to learn how cosmetic dentistry can do more than brighten your teeth by actually lifting your face, and where to find the best dentist in Houston for smile makeovers.
What Does a Smile Makeover Mean?
A smile makeover is a customized set of cosmetic dental treatments designed to improve the look of your smile and the function of your mouth. While the main goal is usually to enhance appearance, a smile makeover from the best cosmetic dentist in Houston can also help with how your teeth come together when you bite. This can improve facial symmetry, reduce strain on your jaw, and help restore a more youthful, healthy look overall.
A smile makeover often includes dental procedures like:
- Porcelain veneers to reshape teeth
- Dental crowns to strengthen teeth damaged by tooth decay
- Dental bonding to repair small chips or small gaps between the teeth that don’t qualify for orthodontic treatment
- Professional teeth whitening to brighten your smile
- Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, to straighten misaligned teeth
- Gum contouring, when appropriate, to refine the smile line
What makes a smile makeover unique is that it’s not one-size-fits-all. It’s tailored to fit your face. Experienced cosmetic dentists will consider factors such as your facial structure, skin tone, and the shape of your natural teeth to create a smile that appears balanced and natural, rather than artificial or overdone.
Can a Smile Makeover Really Give You a Facelift?
When teeth become worn down, your bite can collapse and shorten the distance between your nose and chin, a problem known as lost vertical dimension. This change can make your face look sunken, your lips appear thinner, and your skin seem more saggy or wrinkled around the mouth.
A smile makeover addresses this by carefully adjusting the length, shape, and position of your teeth through treatments like veneers, crowns, or full-mouth restorations. These changes improve the way your teeth support your lips and cheeks, helping your face look fuller and more lifted. In many cases, the results can mimic what you might expect from dermal fillers or a facelift, without the need for injections or a lengthy recovery time.
How Long Do Results from a Smile Makeover Last?
The results from a smile makeover can last many years, especially if you take good care of your teeth. Porcelain veneers and dental crowns, which are commonly used in smile makeovers, usually last 10 to 15 years when properly maintained. Professional teeth whitening can fade over time, depending on your diet and lifestyle habits. However, regular touch-ups and good oral hygiene can help maintain your smile's brightness.
The key to making your smile makeover last is sticking to good oral hygiene: brushing and flossing daily, seeing your dentist for cleanings, and avoiding habits that can damage your teeth, like biting hard objects or grinding at night.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover is a great option for people who want to improve the look and function of their teeth, especially if their smile has been affected by wear, chips, discoloration, or missing teeth. These dental issues can make your face appear older or less balanced, and a smile makeover can help restore a more youthful and refreshed look.
It’s also a smart choice for those dealing with bite problems, gum recession, or facial asymmetry that’s related to dental health. Since every smile and face is different, the first step is a cosmetic consultation. During this visit, the dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums, and facial structure to recommend the best treatments for your needs and goals.
Where to Find a Cosmetic Dentist Who’s Known for the Best Smile Makeovers in Houston
At Sapphire Smiles, we believe your smile should feel as good as it looks, and we’re here to help you achieve both. Our smile makeover process is highly personalized, combining artistry, advanced technology, and open communication to give you a result that feels natural and reflects who you are.
Whether you’re looking to refine already healthy teeth or restore damaged or missing teeth, we offer a range of treatments, including veneers, crowns, and full-mouth restorations, all with the comfort and precision that modern tools like our intraoral scanner and Monet curing light provide. Dr. Mary and Dr. Antoun take the time to understand your goals and create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your face, personality, and lifestyle.
Ready to restore a youthful look with help from a family-owned practice in Houston, where we treat every patient like one of our own to ensure you get the best smile makeover in Houston and are proud to share your smile with the world?