This informative guide will explore the number of ways you can customize a complete smile makeover and examine the numerous benefits of improving the appearance of your teeth.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a comprehensive approach to enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth. It involves two or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to address various issues, including color, shape, alignment, and overall aesthetics.

Customization Options for a Complete Smile Makeover

The following options are the typical components of a smile makeover, but your treatment plan will be personalized to meet your unique needs:

Tooth-Colored Fillings

• Composite resin fillings are used to repair cavities while matching the natural color of the teeth.
• Tooth-colored fillings provide a discreet and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal fillings.

Professional Teeth Whitening

• Professional teeth whitening involves using safe and effective bleaching agents to lighten the color of the teeth.
• Benefits include eliminating dental stains for a brighter and more youthful smile.

Porcelain Veneers

• Ultra-thin porcelain shells are custom-made and bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their appearance.
• This cosmetic dental treatment offers several benefits, such as correcting structural issues like small, misshapen, or worn-down teeth, chips, and minor misalignment, as well as concealing deep permanent discoloration resistant to teeth-whitening for a flawless smile.

Porcelain Crowns

• By enhancing the shape, strength, and appearance of damaged teeth, these customized tooth caps are color-matched and made to look like your naturally healthy tooth before being placed.
• Porcelain crowns are designed to improve the structural integrity of your tooth, restore function, and improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Clear Dental Aligners Like Invisalign® or ClearCorrect®

• Clear dental aligners gradually shift teeth into proper alignment without cumbersome metal braces.
• This orthodontic treatment offers a discreet, comfortable way to address crooked, crowded, twisted, or misaligned teeth for a straighter, more functional smile.

Dental Implants

• Dental implants comprehensively replace missing teeth, restoring a complete and natural-looking smile while helping to keep the jawbone healthy by providing stimulation.
• Titanium implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a foundation for high-quality porcelain crowns.

The Benefits of an Attractive Smile

A healthy and attractive smile offers several benefits to help increase your overall well-being, some of which include:

• Increased confidence: A beautiful smile contributes significantly to self-esteem, empowering individuals to feel more confident in various social and professional settings.
• Improved social interactions: A confident and attractive smile can positively impact social interactions, fostering a sense of connection and approachability.
• Professional success: A polished and engaging smile can make a lasting impression in professional settings, potentially influencing career opportunities and financial success.
• Healthier dental habits: Investing in a complete smile makeover often motivates individuals to maintain excellent oral hygiene to maintain their results, promoting better oral and overall health.
• Youthful appearance: A well-crafted smile can take years off one’s appearance, contributing to a more youthful and vibrant look.
• Enhanced function: Beyond aesthetics, procedures like dental implants and clear aligners can improve bite function and oral health.

Customizing Your Smile Makeover Journey

Schedule a consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist to discuss the goals you have for your smile and explore customized treatment options. A qualified cosmetic dentist will create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns to deliver your desired outcome.

Many individuals benefit from a combination of procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign, to achieve a comprehensive smile makeover.

Consideration of Your Facial Features

A reputable cosmetic dentist recommending treatments for your customized smile makeover will consider your unique facial features and include enhancements that harmonize with the overall aesthetics of your face.

Smile Makeovers With a Top Chicago Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing to undergo a complete smile makeover can be a big part of self-improvement and transformation. Customizing your smile to align with your preferences enhances your appearance and elevates your confidence and quality of life.

By exploring the diverse options available and collaborating with a skilled cosmetic dentist like Dr. Vlad Fedin in Chicago, Illinois, you can achieve a stunning smile that reflects the best version of yourself.

Remember, a confident smile is a key that unlocks doors to countless opportunities, leaving a lasting and positive impression on the world around you.

Call Chicago Dental Arts at (312) 642-6631 to schedule your smile makeover consultation! We look forward to serving our Chicago area communities and your cosmetic dentistry needs. We provide treatment for individuals in:

• Chicago
• Bucktown
• Chicago Loop
• Glencoe
• Glenview
• Gold Coast
• Logan Square
• Northbrook
• Northfield
• River East
• River North
• Skokie
• Streeterville
• West Loop
• Wicker Park
• Wilmette
• Winnetka

The post How to Customize Your Smile Makeover first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Invisalign® straightens teeth with a series of clear aligners that straighten teeth gradually over six months to a year and a half, depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issues.

Seven Benefits of Invisalign® Aligners

Comparing the advantages of Invisalign® dental aligners over traditional braces is easy. The following seven benefits of Invisalign® demonstrate why they are the gold standard of teeth straightening:

1. Appearance

Invisalign® aligners are made of clear, BPA-free plastic and are virtually invisible, providing a discreet teeth straightening option without brackets and wires.

2. Comfort

Invisalign® aligners are customized to fit precisely over the teeth, offering a more comfortable experience than traditional braces, which can sometimes cause irritation or discomfort.

3. Removability

Invisalign® clear aligners are removable and allow patients to eat their favorite foods. However, it’s essential to wear the aligners at all times except when eating or cleaning the teeth and gums.

4. Simplified Oral Hygiene

Traditional braces are attached to teeth and require special cleaning tools to prevent plaque buildup, making oral hygiene routines more challenging. Even with meticulous care, stains often develop on teeth treated with braces.

Because Invisalign® aligners are removable, teeth can be brushed and flossed as usual.

5. Treatment Time

The treatment time required with Invisalign® varies based on the individual’s needs and typically takes no longer than traditional braces and, in some cases, offers even faster results.

6. Adjustments

Traditional braces can involve an uncomfortable adjustment process to control the movement of teeth for proper alignment. Invisalign® aligners have all the needed adjustments built into the treatment plan and are designed to be comfortable throughout treatment.

7. Can Treat Most Orthodontic Issues

The Invisalign® system can treat the majority of orthodontic cases, including:

• Crooked and twisted teeth
• Small gaps between teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Overbites
• Underbites
• Open bites (which prevent the top and bottom teeth from meeting)

Traditional Braces

Metal or ceramic braces are fixed onto the teeth and may be indicated for complex or severe orthodontic cases when more force, durability, and supervision are needed.

Invisalign Vs. Other Clear Aligners

Invisalign® is a well-established brand known for its patented SmartTrack® material and 3D imaging technology, allowing for customized and precise tooth movement. Here’s how this effective orthodontic treatment compares with other clear aligners.

Let’s start with Invisalign®:

Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment

Invisalign® caters to various orthodontic cases, offering solutions for simple to complex misalignments, with the capacity to address a wide range of dental issues.

Customization and Monitoring

Invisalign® aligners are customized and created using advanced software, which allows your dentist or orthodontist to track and monitor the treatment progress.

Patient Experience

Invisalign® aligners are known for their comfort, discreet appearance, and the convenience of being removable for easy cleaning and eating.

Now, here are some facts about other clear dental aligners:

Several other brands offer clear aligner systems using different materials and technologies, each with its own approach to orthodontic treatment.

Aligner Quality and Effectiveness

Some alternative aligner systems are designed for specific cases, focusing on simple misalignments or orthodontic issues. Depending on the brand, alternative clear aligners may not be able to provide the highest quality material and treatment outcomes.

Cost and Accessibility

Other dental aligners may seem to offer more cost-effective options or be more accessible. However, most of these alternatives are not proven to deliver the same results as Invisalign® and are often not supervised by a well-qualified dentist.

Should I Choose Invisalign® or Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces and Invisalign® each have their place in modern orthodontics, offering excellent options to achieve a straighter smile. The decision between Invisalign® and traditional braces should be made after a consultation with a qualified dentist or orthodontist, who can weigh your individual needs, preferences, and the complexity of your case.

While traditional braces offer the durability, reliability, and control necessary for more severe cases, Invisalign® provides a discreet, comfortable, and removable option suitable for most patients seeking a straighter smile.

Regardless of your chosen method, achieving a beautifully aligned smile is a transformative experience leading to enhanced oral health and increased confidence.

Your Chicago, Illinois, Certified Invisalign® Provider

Dr. Vladimir Fedin is a reputable and well-respected cosmetic dentist and preferred Chicago area Invisalign® provider. If you desire a brighter smile to go along with your straighter teeth, he offers professional strength, at-home teeth whitening gel to use with your last set of aligners.

Call Chicago Dental Arts to schedule your Invisalign® consultation with Dr. Fedin at (312) 642-6631 today!

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Missing or damaged teeth can detract from the appearance of your smile and adversely affect your oral health. When teeth are missing for a prolonged period, the jaw bone can weaken and diminish, affecting the integrity of the facial structure.

To avoid these long-term problems, it is important to take care of missing teeth as soon as possible with a dental implant.

Depending on the length of time a tooth has been missing and whether the bone has experienced resorption, you may need an extra preparatory step before the insertion of an implant: either a bone graft or a sinus lift.

The Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants look and function like natural teeth: they are inserted directly into the bone, bringing balance and structure to the bite, smile, and face.

The implant can typically be placed over two appointments.

• During the first procedure, Dr. Fedin will surgically place a screw-like metal post into your jawbone.
• Once the implant is placed, osseointegration begins, during which your jawbone will grow around and unite with it, making a solid foundation for when the abutment and crown are eventually attached.

When Is a Bone Graft or Sinus Lift Necessary?

The dental implant procedure can only occur if the underlying bone structure is strong enough. When a tooth is missing, the bone can become weak and brittle, eventually detracting and causing a hollow, sunken look.

Aside from the aesthetic side of things, a weak bone cannot support an implant, making either a bone graft or a sinus lift necessary.

What Is a Bone Graft?

Dental bone grafts support the jaw structure and allow the bone to repair itself without incurring more damage or weakening of the jaw.

The Dental Bone Graft Procedure

The dental bone graft procedure typically takes between 45 and 90 minutes and is relatively painless when performed by a bone grafting specialist like Dr. Fedin at Chicago Dental Arts.

During the procedure, your oral surgeon will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will move the gum tissue back so that the jawbone is visible before cleaning and disinfecting the area. The bone grafting material is applied to the defect, the gum tissue is repositioned, and the incision is closed with stitches.

You may experience some initial pain, swelling, and bruising, but these symptoms should subside within a few days and can be managed with pain relievers. The dental bone graft recovery process can take around two weeks, with many patients seeing solid bone mass growth between three to six weeks.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

Sinus lift surgery involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing a bone graft onto the sinus floor. This procedure is designed for patients with insufficient bone height in the upper jaw or those with sinuses that are too close to the jaw to place dental implants.

The Sinus Lift Procedure

Your oral surgery team at Chicago Dental Arts will ensure that your sinus lift procedure is pain and anxiety-free by practicing sedation dentistry. Your experience will be as comfortable as possible.

During the sinus lift, your surgeon will make incisions in the back portion of your gum tissue to expose the bone. Next, a small area of the bone will be cut before it is lifted into the sinus cavity, raising the membrane. Then, bone grafting materials are applied to the newly lifted area, and the incisions are closed.

You may experience some swelling and discomfort immediately following the procedure. As this procedure involves manipulation of the sinus membranes, it’s important to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing, as this can irritate the area.

Your Chicago Dental Implant Specialists

So, which procedure will you need? Generally, you will need a dental bone graft if you require dental implants on the bottom row of teeth. If you have missing teeth needing implants on the top, you may need a sinus graft.

During your consultation, Dr. Fedin can discuss your precise needs to get you the best results possible.

The benefits of a dental bone graft or sinus lift include the following:

• Encourage bone growth after density loss
• Improves the structure of the jaw as bone loss increases over time
• Helps prevent gum disease
• Establishes a foundation for future dental implants
• Improves the overall oral health of the patient

Leading the team at Chicago Dental Arts, Dr. Fedin is considered one of Chicago’s leading dentists and implantologists, performing over 6,000 implant procedures. He is expertly trained and experienced in oral and maxillofacial surgeries, performing thousands of successful procedures.

Interested in Sinus Lift and Bone Grafting Procedures in Chicago, IL?

Don’t wait to improve your smile and oral health. Chicago Dental Arts can help you repair your jaw, teeth, and facial structure with a sinus lift and bone grafting procedure today. Call us at (312) 642-6631 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

The post Do You Need a Bone Graft or Sinus Lift? first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

Those planning to improve the appearance of their smiles often face the following quandary: should they choose a teeth-whitening treatment or pay more for porcelain veneers?

If you are considering either of these two procedures, a third option may be more economical than a complete set of dental veneers and more comprehensive than teeth whitening. 

By combining professional teeth-whitening with porcelain veneers, you can address concerns that may be difficult to address with teeth whitening alone. 

When to Combine Teeth-Whitening and Porcelain Veneers

Surface (extrinsic) stains respond exceptionally well to professional teeth-whitening but deep, set-in (intrinsic) discoloration is harder to treat this way.

Porcelain veneers are often the best choice to address permanent stains. They also offer other benefits.

Porcelain dental veneers can transform a smile with the following issues:

• Chipped teeth
• Misaligned teeth
• Gaps in teeth
• Twisted teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Small, worn-down teeth
• Intrinsic dental stains

If most or all of your teeth have deep, whitening-resistant discoloration due to illness, injury, medications, or genetics, you’ll likely need a full set of porcelain veneers. 

However, if your dental stains are due to tartar, nicotine, or consuming highly pigmented beverages and foods, with only a few teeth permanently discolored or otherwise damaged, combining veneers with professional whitening can be an effective and cost-saving alternative. 

How to Combine Teeth-Whitening With Porcelain Veneers

During your consultation, the dentist will create a treatment plan that includes which teeth can benefit from whitening and which require porcelain veneers. 

This approach calls for professional teeth whitening to treat most of your teeth and porcelain veneers for those with structural damage or permanent discoloration. It is designed to save you money while still producing excellent results.

How the Teeth Whitening/Porcelain Veneer Combination Treatment Works

You will need a professional dental cleaning before beginning this combination procedure, after which you can expect to visit the dentist twice to complete your treatment.

First Visit

Professional Teeth-Whitening

During your first appointment, the dentist will typically whiten your teeth and remove a small amount of enamel from the surface of those receiving veneers to ensure a tight bond with your restorations.

There are several in-office techniques used in professional teeth whitening, but most involve the dentist coating each tooth with a professional strength whitening formula, waiting about 15 minutes, and repeating this step up to four times for your desired shade.

Chicago Dental Arts offers two professional teeth whitening options:

• Zoom! Teeth Whitening
• BIOLASE Laser System

Porcelain Veneers

Once the teeth have been professionally whitened and color-matched, your dentist will obtain a precise dental impression which is sent to the lab for the fabrication of your custom porcelain veneers.

Second Visit

On your second visit, the color-matched veneers are placed on the prepared teeth to complete your smile transformation.

Before leaving, your dentist will ask you to bite down on dental paper to check your alignment, ask how the veneers feel, and make any necessary adjustments.

Because porcelain veneers are thin, they can blend in seamlessly when placed next to a natural, color-matched, and whitened tooth to deliver your new stunning smile.

Find Combo Teeth Whitening & Porcelain Veneers in Chicago, IL 

If you live in or near Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Vladimir Fedin provides combination teeth whitening treatment and porcelain veneers here at Chicago Dental Arts. We invite you to call our cosmetic dental office at (312) 642-6631 to learn more or schedule your procedure.

The post Combining Teeth-Whitening With Porcelain Veneers for a Stunning Smile first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.

But we also know that dental crowns have a shelf life, like all products, and there will be a few key indicators that your crowns need a bit of a wake-up call. Pay attention to some of these signs your dental crown needs to be replaced so you know when it’s time to call on our experts to help address concerns with your crowns.

Your Crown Is Old

The easiest way to tell if your crown is nearing the time for replacement is by paying attention to how long you’ve had it. Eventually, the structural integrity of your crown will give way, and you’ll need to contact your dentist for a new one. This typically occurs around a decade, even though some people have kept their crowns for up to 15 years (due to excellent care). If they have metal crowns, they may be able to get up to 20 years of use out of them. At the very least, you should examine your crown after ten years to get a clearer picture of how much longer it can last.

Damaged Crown

If you notice chips and cracks on your crown, it might be time for a new one. Ceramic and porcelain crowns are great options, but they are sometimes subject to chipping after years of use. Not all chips and cracks demand a dental crown replacement, and the dentists at Chicago Dental Arts can calm your fears and help identify the treatment you need.

Wear and Tear on the Crown

Do you grind your teeth at night or have poor hygiene habits? These factors can lead to wear and tear on your crown that’s a bit more than just the regular wear and tear you’d see with proper care. Tooth grinders slowly wear down the crowns on their teeth over time, so if you habitually grind your teeth, pay attention to chipping, cracks, or pain in your mouth when you wake up. Visit your dentist to help identify the root cause of wear and tear on your crown.

A Receding Gum Line

Whether it’s a hairline or a gum line, no one wants to associate the word receding with anything on their body. Unlike a hairline, which usually happens with age, a receding gum line signifies that you need immediate help from a dentist like ours that can provide emergency dental care for Chicago residents. Bacteria tends to collect around a tooth with a crown more so than the other teeth in your mouth. Gum recession indicates that your crown may have been bonded incorrectly or is incapable of doing its job anymore.

Severe Swelling and Pain

Swelling and pain are never a positive sign, and you shouldn’t take it lightly if you start feeling pain in your crowning tooth. Pain or swelling indicates that you might have a crown that’s too high on the tooth, impacting the way it sits in your mouth and pushing against other teeth. In severe cases, pain and swelling might signify bad oral health, and you don’t want to let gum disease or other problems linger for too long.

Need Your Crown Replaced? Chicago Dental Arts Have Got Your Back

Everyone’s crown will eventually reach the end of its lifespan, but with help from professional cosmetic dentists, you don’t have to worry. With the expertise of Dr. Fedin and the wonderful dentists at Chicago Dental Arts, we will guide you through the entire dental implant process, including what to do if you notice any of these signs. For premium service and care that your teeth deserve, contact us today! Get dental crowns in Chicago that will keep your teeth (and your smile) in tip-top shape.

The post Signs Your Dental Crown Needs to Be Replaced first appeared on Chicago Dental Arts.