You’ve been thinking about it for a while. Maybe you cover your mouth when you laugh. Maybe you avoid smiling in photos. Or maybe you just wish your teeth looked whiter, straighter, or more even. A smile makeover could be the answer. But before any work begins, there’s a first step that matters more than you might think. The consultation.
Let us walk you through what happens during that visit, so you know exactly what to expect.
The Conversation
The first thing we do is sit down and talk. No exam. No tools in your mouth. Just a conversation about what’s bothering you and what you’d like to achieve.
We ask questions:
- What do you notice when you look in the mirror?
- What would you change if you could?
- Are there specific things that make you feel self-conscious?
- What do you hope your smile will look like when we’re done?
We also ask about your health history, any medications you take, and whether you’ve had dental work in the past. Some health conditions or medications can affect treatment choices, so this matters.
There are no wrong answers here. We’re listening to understand your goals.
The Examination
Once we understand what you’re hoping to achieve, we take a close look at your teeth, gums, and bite. We check for decay, gum disease, and any other issues that could affect your makeover. We also evaluate how your teeth come together when you bite. That’s important because any changes we make need to work with your natural bite, not against it. If your bite is off, we might recommend addressing that first.
We look at the shape and size of your teeth. We look at how your gums frame your smile. And we look at your facial features to understand how your teeth fit with the rest of your face.
Digital Smile Design
We use Digital Smile Design to show you what your new smile could look like before any work begins. We take digital photos and scans of your teeth. Using specialized software, we can map out how adjustments to shape, size, or color would look on you. Not on a generic model. On your face, with your features.
You get to see the possibilities. You can say yes to what you like and no to what you don’t. That way, you’re involved in every decision from the very start.
Discussing Options
Based on what we’ve learned from your goals, your exam, and the digital design, we talk about your options.
A smile makeover can include one treatment or many. It might include:
- Teeth Whitening
- Dental Bonding
- Porcelain Veneers
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Implants
- Invisalign
Dr. Engelberg will explain each option clearly. We talk about what’s involved, how long it takes, and what you can expect in terms of results. We also discuss costs and timeline so you can plan accordingly.
Addressing Underlying Issues
Sometimes we find problems that need to be addressed before we can start cosmetic work. Gum disease, untreated cavities, or bite issues can all affect the success of a smile makeover.
If we do find something, we’ll explain why it matters and what needs to happen first. You’re not getting a sales pitch. You’re getting honest advice about what will serve you best in the long run.
No Pressure, No Rush
There’s no pressure. You can ask any question. You can take time to think about your options. And you can talk to family or friends if that helps. We’re not here to push you into treatment. We’re here to give you the information you need to make a confident decision.
Your first visit is just the beginning. It’s about possibilities, not commitments.
Improve Your Smile Today
If you’ve been wanting to change your smile, a consultation is the best place to start. You’ll leave with a clear picture of what’s possible, a realistic sense of what it takes, and a plan that fits your goals.
Our team at AH Smiles serves patients from Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, Deerfield, and Northbrook. Give us a call. Let’s start the conversation about your smile.