Smile Makeover
Playa District Dental
Erik Ligans, DDS
Cosmetic Dentist located in Los Angeles, CA
If you feel self-conscious about the color, condition, or appearance of your teeth and gums, consider a cosmetic smile makeover. At Playa District Dental, in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, Dr. E (Erik Ligans, DDS), and the team have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry and specialize in transforming smiles. Dr. E has furthered his expertise in cosmetic dentistry by taking advanced courses at Spear Education in Phoenix, Arizona. To achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of, call the office or book online today.
Smile Makeover Q & A
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover combines one or more cosmetic dentistry techniques to improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, gums, or both.
Aside from making your smile more attractive, a cosmetic smile makeover can improve your oral health. This is especially true if you’re missing one or multiple teeth. By restoring your smile to its near-original condition, it’s possible to lower the risk of gum recession, bone loss, and other oral health problems.
What does a smile makeover involve?
No two cosmetic smile makeovers are alike. Following a discussion of your goals for treatment, a review of your oral health history, and a comprehensive oral exam, Dr. E will develop a treatment plan. That might include:
Invisalign®
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment used to straighten crooked and crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. Invisalign uses clear, nearly invisible plastic aligners, instead of using brackets and wires like traditional braces. To achieve the best possible results, it’s important to wear your aligners between 20-22 hours each day.
Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or decaying teeth or dental implants. Once placed, crowns restore your chewing and biting abilities. With routine checkups and good oral hygiene, crowns typically last for 10-15 years.
Veneers
If your teeth are stained, unusually shaped, or smaller-than-average, consider veneers. Veneers are thin porcelain or resin-based shells that Dr. E bonds to the fronts of your teeth. They can mask visible imperfections and restore balance and symmetry to your smile. You may consider veneers for:
- Correcting misshapen teeth
- Covering fractures and chips
- Closing up gaps
- Whitening your smile
Veneers are stain-resistant, so substances like coffee, red wine, and other drinks and foods won’t discolor them over time. They can even help correct minor misalignment issues, so your teeth appear straighter than they actually are. Because veneers reflect the natural properties of your natural teeth, they're indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.
While veneers aren’t permanent, they can last 10-15 years with proper care.
Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening uses FDA-approved solutions to remove stains from your teeth. The results of teeth whitening treatment aren’t permanent, but with good oral hygiene, they can last for four to six months or longer.
Cosmetic gum contouring
If you have excess gum tissue that results in a “gummy” smile, Dr. E might recommend cosmetic gum contouring to reshape your gum tissue. If you have gum disease, he can restore the tissue lost to gum recession.
Dental implants
If you’re missing one or several teeth, consider dental implants. Implants are titanium posts that provide a supportive foundation for dental restorations like crowns, a fixed bridge, or implant-supported dentures.
Can I benefit from a cosmetic smile makeover?
Anyone who is unhappy with the physical appearance of their gums, teeth, or smile can benefit from a cosmetic smile makeover. Dr. E guides you through the entire treatment process, ensuring you achieve your desired outcome.
To explore a cosmetic smile makeover in greater detail, request a consultation at Playa District Dental. Call the office or book online today.