Atwell & Cockburn Smile Makeovers Give You More Reasons to Smile Every Day

The duration of a smile makeover varies depending on the specific treatments involved in your treatment plan. Each procedure has its own timeline, contributing to the overall duration of your smile transformation.

Here’s a breakdown of the timeframes of common treatments included in a smile makeover:

Porcelain veneers:

Porcelain veneer treatment may take about two to three visits over three weeks. During the consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and determine the proper shape and colour of your veneers. Next, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. This helps to create veneers that fit better and do not appear bulky when bonded to the teeth.

Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the custom veneers are fabricated. In the meantime, temporary veneers may be placed on your teeth for protection. Once your porcelain veneers are ready, they are carefully bonded to your teeth, effectively transforming your smile.

Composite veneers:

Composite veneers are a quicker alternative. The dentist applies a composite resin material to your teeth and sculpts it to the desired shape. The resin is then hardened using a curing light and polished to achieve a natural look. Composite veneer treatment is usually completed in a single visit, taking about one to two hours, depending on the number of teeth involved.

Teeth whitening:

Professional teeth whitening comes in two types: in-office teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening.

In-office teeth whitening may take one hour and thirty minutes in a single session. Depending on your desired level of brightness, you may need additional sessions to achieve your desired result. This cosmetic dentistry treatment makes use of high-concentration bleaching gel that is applied to your teeth and accelerated with a special light. The treatment significantly lightens the teeth, removing stains and discolouration.

At-home or take-home whitening treatment makes use of kits that include customised trays and low-concentration bleaching gel. The time it takes to see results from take-home teeth whitening kits can vary. Usually, noticeable results are seen within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the strength of the whitening agent and the frequency of use. For safe and effective use, it’s important to follow the instructions given by dental professionals.

Dental crowns:

Dental crowns are used to restore damaged or weakened teeth. The process involves reshaping the tooth to fit the crown, taking an impression for the lab, and placing a temporary crown. Once the final crown is ready, it’s cemented in place, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.

Usually, getting this dental treatment involves at least two visits over a three-week period.

Dental implants:

Dental implants are a replacement option for missing teeth. The process starts with surgically embedding a titanium post into the jawbone. This will serve as an artificial tooth root. After a healing period, wherein the implant is allowed to integrate with the bone, an abutment and a custom-made crown are placed, completing the restoration.

The implant surgery itself takes a few hours, but the overall process, including the healing and crown placement, can span at least five to eight months.

Clear aligners:

Clear aligners offer a discreet method to straighten teeth. After a detailed assessment and impression-taking, a series of custom-made aligners are fabricated. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before replacing them with the next set in the series, gradually shifting your teeth into the desired position. Furthermore, regular check-ups will allow your dentist to monitor if the treatment is progressing as planned.

The treatment time for clear aligners varies greatly, usually ranging from six to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case.

It’s important to note that these timeframes are general estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances and treatment complexity. At Atwell Smiles Dental, we provide a detailed timeline during your initial consultation. This timeline is tailored to your specific needs and goals for your dental makeover.

Smile makeovers in Atwell include a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures, each tailored to meet your dental needs and aesthetic goals.

• Porcelain veneers:
  These are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile. Porcelain veneers are a popular choice for achieving a natural-looking, beautiful smile.
• Composite veneers:
  Similar to porcelain veneers, which are placed on the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance, composite veneers are made from a tooth-coloured resin material. They are applied directly to the teeth, offering a more conservative option for smile enhancement.
• Teeth whitening:
  Teeth whitening offers a highly effective method to brighten your smile. This simple procedure, which makes use of different whitening systems, like Pola teeth whitening, is available as in-office treatments or take-home kits and can significantly enhance your smile’s aesthetics.
• Dental crowns:
  Crowns are used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. They are a great option for teeth that are broken, worn down, or have undergone significant decay or damage.
• Dental implants:
  For those missing one or more teeth, dental implants provide a durable and long-lasting option. They are the closest replacement option to natural teeth, and they can improve your smile’s appearance and your oral health.
• Clear aligners:
  Clear aligners, such as ClearCorrect, are an innovative and discreet way to straighten teeth. Besides cosmetic enhancements, they are also a great choice for improving dental function.

Each of these procedures plays a vital role in the smile makeover process. At Atwell Smiles Dental, our team of dentists works closely with you to determine the right combination of treatments to achieve your dream smile. Whether you need a simple enhancement or a smile transformation, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care and results.

At Atwell Smiles Dental, we understand that dental procedures can be nerve-wracking for many. Our team of dentists is committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible:

• Understanding and empathy:
  We begin by acknowledging your fears and concerns. Our friendly team aims to listen and provide support, creating a supportive environment where you feel heard and understood.
• Comfortable environment:
  Our clinic is designed to create a sense of calm and relaxation. From the waiting room to the treatment area, every space is designed to ease your anxiety and make you feel comfortable.
• Clear communication:
  We believe that one of the ways to alleviate anxiety is through clear, transparent communication. We explain each step of the procedure and what to expect and answer any questions you might have. This approach helps simplify the process and reduce anxiety.
• Gentle techniques:
  Our team of dentists use gentle, minimally invasive techniques to maintain your comfort during procedures. Whether it’s a teeth whitening or more complex treatments like dental implants, we prioritise your comfort at every step.
• Sedation options:
  We offer various sedation options for those who need extra help to relax. These are tailored to your level of anxiety and the nature of the dental procedure, resulting in a pain-free and stress-free experience.
• Post-treatment care:
  After your procedure, we provide detailed aftercare instructions and support. Our team is always available to answer any follow-up questions or concerns you may have.

Your comfort and peace of mind are our utmost priorities, helping you leave with an attractive smile and a positive dental experience. We’re committed to providing compassionate care and building a trusting relationship with you.

The cost of a smile makeover at Atwell Smiles Dental can vary significantly based on several factors. These include the complexity of your case, the specific location of your tooth or teeth requiring treatment, and the materials used for the procedures.

Here’s a general overview of the smile makeover cost:

• Porcelain veneers: $1,220 – $1,700 per tooth
• Composite veneers: $510 – $740 per tooth
• Take-home teeth whitening: $610 per kit
• Professional teeth whitening: $260 – $280 per tooth
• Dental crowns: $1,000 – $3,500
• Dental implants: $4,500 per tooth
• All-on-4 implants: $23,085 – $39,225 per arch

We highly encourage you to book an initial consultation with us at Atwell Smiles Dental. During this consultation, our team of dentists will provide a thorough examination, discuss the specific procedures involved in your smile transformation, and give you an estimated smile makeover cost. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions so you may understand all aspects of the proposed cosmetic dentistry plan.

Health fund cover for smile makeover costs varies depending on your policy and the specific treatments involved. Some dental procedures, like dental crowns or implants, may be partially covered if they are identified as necessary for your oral health.

We recommend checking your health fund’s details for specific information regarding covered dental procedures. At Atwell Smiles Dental, our team of dentists can provide the necessary treatment plans and documentation to assist in seeking cover from your health fund, helping make your journey to a beautiful smile more manageable.

The longevity of your smile makeover results is influenced by the type of treatment you receive and your commitment to oral care.

• Dental veneers
  Porcelain veneers, known for their strength and aesthetic appeal, generally last between 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers, on the other hand, offer a quicker and more cost-effective option, usually lasting for about five to seven years.
• Teeth whitening
  In-office teeth whitening can brighten your smile for anywhere from six months to three years, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. In general, you can expect your results from an at-home teeth bleaching kit to last for four to six months, with occasional touch-ups.
• Dental crowns
  Dental crowns, which are used for restoring damaged teeth, can last from five to 15 years, depending on the material used and care taken.
• Dental implants
  With their durable materials and integration with the jawbone, dental implants have the potential to last 20 to 30 years.
• Clear aligners
  In the case of clear aligners, such as ClearCorrect, the results can be long-lasting, often many years, provided you maintain good dental health and wear a retainer to prevent any shift in alignment.

It’s important to remember that these timeframes can vary based on individual factors, including your oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and regular dental check-ups. At Atwell Smiles Dental, our team of dentists will guide you on how to take care of your dental makeover, helping you maintain your vibrant smile for as long as possible.

After undergoing smile makeovers in Atwell, it’s essential to adopt a comprehensive care routine to maintain the beauty and health of your new smile. Keeping your smile as stunning as the day it was transformed is as simple as following these steps:

• Practice diligent oral hygiene.
  Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily are foundational. This routine is crucial, especially if you’ve received treatments like porcelain veneers or dental crowns, as it helps prevent plaque buildup and maintains gum health.
• Have regular dental visits.
  Schedule regular check-ups so your dentist can monitor the condition of restorative work like veneers and implants. Take this opportunity to have dental cleaning as well, as this helps remove plaque and tartar that can’t be removed by regular brushing, keeping your teeth clean and bright.
• Be mindful of what you eat and drink.
  Be cautious of foods and drinks that can stain or damage your dental work. Foods with intense colour pigments, like coffee, red wine, and certain fruits, can stain composite veneers and natural teeth alike. Also, be mindful of hard foods that could potentially chip or damage dental restorations.
• Use retainers.
  Wearing a retainer, as recommended, is vital for those who’ve had orthodontic treatment, like clear aligners. This practice will help your teeth remain in their new positions.
• Avoid harmful habits.
  Habits like smoking not only discolour teeth but also damage overall oral health. Similarly, habits like biting nails or chewing on pens can damage your restorative work.
• Choose the right dental products.
  Use non-abrasive toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthwash. Abrasive toothpaste can scratch veneers and crowns over time, while alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out the mouth, affecting oral health.
• Protect your teeth.
  If you engage in sports or grind your teeth at night, consider using a mouthguard. This can protect both natural teeth and any cosmetic dental work from damage.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly extend the life and appearance of your dental makeover. Remember, a beautiful smile is a combination of professional dental work and your personal care routine.

As with any medical or dental procedure, it’s essential to be informed about potential risks, even though they are generally minimal. Here are some potential risks to be aware of:

• Sensitive teeth.
  Some patients may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after smile makeover treatments, mainly with procedures like teeth whitening. This is usually temporary but can be uncomfortable for a short period.
• Gum tissue reaction.
  Patients might have a reaction to the materials used in dental restorations like crowns or veneers. As a result, the gums might become inflamed and require treatment.
• Durability of restorations.
  While porcelain veneers and dental crowns are made from durable materials, they are not indestructible. Improper care, such as biting hard objects or poor oral hygiene, can lead to chips or breaks.
• Risk of infection.
  As with any dental procedure, there’s a minimal but present risk of infection. This risk is significantly reduced through strict sterilisation techniques and proper post-treatment care.
• Tooth decay.
  Particularly with restorations like veneers and crowns, there’s a risk of decay developing at the edges if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Regular dental check-ups are vital to detect and address any early signs of decay.
• Need for replacement.
  Restorations like veneers or crowns may have to be replaced over time due to wear and tear or changes in oral health. Regular visits to dentists allow them to monitor the condition of your restorations and plan for any future needs.

At our modern clinic, we take every precaution to minimise these risks. Our comprehensive pre-treatment assessments and personalised treatment plans aim to make your journey to a beautiful smile as safe and comfortable as possible.