I feel like I need a complete top to bottom makeover after all of this Coronavirus Quarantine. I feel frumpy.  I’m going to get my hair colored and get a new wardrobe. What’s a quick fix for my teeth that won’t cost a fortune?

Kelly

Dear Kelly,

Everyone has a different definition of a fortune. I don’t want to limit your options by making assumptions, so I’ll give you both fast options. You can consult with your dentist and budget to decide which one works best for you.

Option One: The Complete Smile Makeover

If you want to change everything about your smile, porcelain veneers are the way to go. This is the go-to for celebrities because it can change the shape, size, and color of your teeth simultaneously. However, not every dentist can do a great job with this. You’ll want one with an artistic eye. I highly suggest you check the dentist’s smile gallery to see what type of results they get. If they don’t have a smile gallery, they aren’t serious about cosmetic dentistry and you should move on. If they do have a smile gallery, just verify that it is the dentist’s actual work and not stock photos.

This procedure uses tiny wafers of porcelain your dentist will design to give you the smile of your dreams. Of the two procedures I’m listing, this is the most expensive.

Option Two: Teeth Whitening

The least expensive way to quickly remake your smile would be teeth whitening. This simple procedure can take years off your smile and can be done by just about any dentist. There are two types of professional teeth whitening available. The first is at-home whitening with trays (pictured above). This allows you to control the level of whitening you want. Once you reach your brightness goal, you simply stop whitening. Though, I always recommend keeping the trays in case a few years from then you want a touch-up.

Another type of teeth whitening is done in one appointment, called Zoom Whitening. Not every dentist offers this because it requires special equipment. This will get your teeth their whitest.

This blog is brought to you by East Cobb Dentist Dr. Cristi Cheek.