Smile Makeovers Explained: What They Include and Who Is a Candidate - January 2026

Welcome to Fairbanks Dental Associates. We are honored to serve the residents of Bell County, TX, and the surrounding areas with advanced dental care designed to promote optimal oral health and beautiful, healthy smiles. Your smile is one of your most expressive features, and we believe everyone deserves to feel confident in theirs. If you have ever felt self-conscious about your teeth or wished for a more harmonious smile, a smile makeover might be the perfect solution for you.

A smile makeover is a comprehensive approach to cosmetic dentistry. It goes beyond treating a single issue; instead, it involves a customized combination of procedures designed to address all of your aesthetic concerns. Our commitment to detail ensures that every patient receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. This guide will explain what a smile makeover involves, what treatments are typically included, and how to determine if you are a good candidate for this transformative process.

What Is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is the process of improving the appearance of your smile through one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures. It is a highly personalized treatment plan that we create specifically for you. The goal is to address any imperfections you wish to change and achieve a balanced, natural-looking smile that complements your facial features.

When designing a smile makeover, we consider several factors, including:

• Tooth Color: We can address stains or discoloration caused by aging, food, drinks, or smoking. We aim for a bright, white shade that looks natural and healthy.
• Alignment and Spacing: We can correct crooked, overlapping, or gapped teeth for a more uniform appearance.
• Missing Teeth: Replacing missing teeth is crucial for both the aesthetics of your smile and your overall oral health.
• Tooth Shape and Size: We can reshape teeth that are chipped, cracked, uneven, or disproportionately sized to create a more harmonious look.
• Overall Smile Balance: We assess your smile as a whole, considering the gum line and the way your lips frame your teeth to ensure a symmetrical and pleasing result.

Your journey to enhanced oral health and a brilliant smile is unique. This is why Dr. Fairbanks and our dental team take a patient-focused approach to every treatment plan. We are proud to provide comprehensive care for smile makeovers in Temple, TX, right here under one roof.

Common Procedures Included in a Smile Makeover

A smile makeover is not a single procedure but a tailored combination of treatments. Depending on your individual goals and oral health status, your plan may include one or several of the following services.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is one of the quickest and most effective ways to brighten your smile. It is often the first step in a smile makeover, as it allows us to match any restorative work, like veneers or crowns, to your newly whitened teeth. We use professional-grade whitening agents that are far more powerful and safer than over-the-counter options, effectively lifting years of stains to reveal a brilliant, radiant smile.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored ceramic that we bond to the front surfaces of your teeth. They are incredibly versatile and can correct a wide range of cosmetic issues, including:

• Severe stains or discoloration that do not respond to whitening
• Chips, cracks, or minor fractures
• Gaps between teeth
• Slightly crooked or misshapen teeth
• Unevenly sized teeth

Veneers provide a durable and stain-resistant solution, offering a dramatic and long-lasting transformation.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is an alternative to veneers for correcting minor imperfections. In this procedure, we apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth, sculpt it into the desired shape, and then harden it with a special light. Bonding is an excellent option for repairing small chips, closing minor gaps, or improving the shape of a tooth. It is a conservative, quick, and cost-effective treatment.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-fitted "cap" that covers an entire tooth. While crowns are often used to restore a tooth that is badly decayed or damaged, they also play a significant role in cosmetic dentistry. We can use crowns to improve the shape, size, color, and alignment of a tooth as part of a smile makeover. They provide strength and protection while creating a beautiful, natural-looking appearance.

Dental Implants

For patients with missing teeth, dental implants offer the most stable and permanent solution. An implant consists of a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as a new tooth root. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant, perfectly matching your other teeth. Dental implants restore the function and appearance of your smile, prevent bone loss, and help maintain your facial structure.

Orthodontics

If you have crooked teeth, crowding, or bite alignment issues, orthodontic treatment may be a key component of your smile makeover. Modern orthodontics offers more options than ever before. We provide clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign®, which uses a series of transparent, removable trays to gradually straighten your teeth. This discreet and comfortable option is popular among adults who want to improve their smile without traditional metal braces.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover can benefit almost anyone unhappy with the appearance of their smile. We understand that deciding to pursue cosmetic dentistry is a significant decision. You may be a good candidate if you relate to any of the following:

• You Feel Self-Conscious About Your Smile: If you find yourself hiding your smile in photos or when meeting new people due to issues like stains, chips, gaps, or crooked teeth, a smile makeover can restore your confidence.
• You Have Multiple Cosmetic Concerns: A smile makeover is ideal for individuals who want to address several different aesthetic issues at once. Instead of tackling each problem separately, we can create a comprehensive plan for a cohesive and efficient transformation.
• You Are in Good Oral Health: Before beginning any cosmetic procedures, it is essential to have a healthy foundation. Any underlying issues, such as gum disease or cavities, must be treated first. Your initial consultation will include a thorough examination to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy.
• You Have Realistic Expectations: Our goal is to create the best possible smile for you—one that is beautiful, healthy, and natural-looking. We will work closely with you during the planning process to understand your vision and explain what can realistically be achieved.
• You Are Committed to the Process: A smile makeover can sometimes require multiple appointments over several weeks or months. Candidates should be prepared to commit the necessary time to achieve their desired results and maintain them with good oral hygiene.

The Smile Makeover Process at Fairbanks Dental Associates

We strive to make your experience as seamless and comfortable as possible. From the moment you walk into our office, our focus is on making you feel at ease. Here is what you can expect during your smile makeover journey with us.

1. The Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Fairbanks. This is our opportunity to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and answer all of your questions. We will perform a comprehensive oral health examination, which may include digital X-rays and impressions of your teeth. This allows us to assess your dental health and determine which treatments are best suited for you.

2. The Custom Treatment Plan

Using the information gathered during your consultation, we will create a personalized treatment plan. We will walk you through each recommended procedure, explaining the benefits, timeline, and costs involved. We may use digital imaging or wax models to show you a preview of your potential results, so you can visualize your new smile before we even begin.

3. The Treatment Phase

Once you approve your custom plan, we will schedule your appointments. The sequence and duration of treatments will vary based on the procedures included. We will ensure you are comfortable and informed at every step. Our team is dedicated to providing gentle, precise care in a relaxing environment.

4. The Final Reveal and Maintenance

After your final treatment is complete, you will see your brand-new smile. The transformation can be life-changing, boosting your confidence and overall well-being. To protect your investment, it is vital to maintain excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and attending routine check-ups and cleanings at our office. We will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your restorations to ensure they last for many years.

Begin Your Smile Transformation Today

A beautiful smile can positively impact every aspect of your life. If you are ready to explore how a custom smile makeover can help you achieve the smile of your dreams, we invite you to contact Fairbanks Dental Associates. We are dedicated to helping you look and feel your best with a healthy, confident smile. Schedule your consultation today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

What is the difference between a smile makeover and a single cosmetic procedure?

A smile makeover is a comprehensive treatment plan that may include several cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, dental crowns, and orthodontics, to address multiple aesthetic concerns at once. In contrast, a single cosmetic procedure typically focuses on improving one specific aspect of your smile.

How long do the results of a smile makeover typically last?

The longevity of your smile makeover depends on the specific treatments included and how well you maintain your oral health. With proper care, such as daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, results from procedures like veneers, crowns, and implants can last for many years.

At Fairbanks Dental Associates, we are proud to serve Bell County and our surrounding communities with a full range of advanced dental treatments in a welcoming, patient-centered environment. Our experienced team is committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a smile you can truly feel good about. To learn more or to begin your journey, please schedule an appointment with us today.