Smile Makeovers

Dental bonding for minor repairs that can be completed quickly without removing tooth structure

Clear aligners to address spacing or mild misalignment before other cosmetic work is placed

What makes a makeover different from individual cosmetic treatments is the planning involved. Each element needs to work with the others, and the sequencing matters. Whitening, for example, should happen before veneers or bonding so the shade of those restorations can be matched to the brightened teeth.

The first appointment is a conversation as much as it is an exam. Dr. Michael M. Bohn takes time to understand what’s been bothering you, what you like about your current teeth, and what kind of outcome you’re hoping for. Some patients come in with a clear picture of what they want. Others have a general sense that something is off but aren’t sure what to address first. Both are completely fine starting points.

From there, we use digital X-rays and a 3Shape Trios intraoral scanner to capture detailed images and impressions. This gives us accurate information to plan with and, in some cases, allows us to show you a preview of potential results before any treatment begins. Knowing what’s possible before committing to anything is something most patients find genuinely useful.

One of the most important parts of a makeover consultation is setting realistic expectations. Cosmetic dentistry can produce significant changes, but the right approach depends on the current state of your teeth, your underlying bite, and your long-term oral health.

We don’t recommend cosmetic work on teeth that have untreated decay or gum disease. Those issues need to be addressed first, not because it delays the cosmetic work, but because restorations placed on unhealthy teeth won’t last. A makeover that holds up for years is worth more than one that looks good initially but requires repair or replacement sooner than it should.

We also talk honestly about which treatments fit which concerns. Veneers are excellent for certain issues and a poor fit for others. Whitening has limitations depending on the type of discoloration. Bonding is versatile but less durable than porcelain. Having those conversations up front means you can make decisions you feel good about.

The timeline depends entirely on which treatments are involved and how many appointments each requires.

A makeover involving only whitening and bonding might be completed in one or two visits. One that includes veneers, crowns, and clear aligners could span several months. We lay out a realistic timeline at your consultation and build the sequence in a way that makes sense clinically, not just logistically.

For any procedures that require numbing, we use Bufferpro and Onset buffered anesthetic. The buffering process reduces injection discomfort and allows the anesthetic to take effect faster, which is especially helpful during longer appointments.

Keeping up with regular cleanings and exams extends the life of every part of a makeover. We also factor in habits like grinding when making recommendations, since this ongoing wear can significantly shorten the lifespan of restorations.

Do I have to address every concern at once?

Not at all. Some patients prefer to prioritize the changes that matter most and add to their makeover over time. We can plan for that from the start, so each step builds on the last rather than creating complications down the road.

Will it look natural?

That’s the goal. We match materials in shade and shape to complement your overall appearance, not to create something that looks obviously altered. The best cosmetic work is the kind that’s hard to identify as cosmetic work.

Is a smile makeover painful?

Most cosmetic procedures involve minimal discomfort. Anything that requires numbing is done with a buffered anesthetic to reduce injection discomfort. Some treatments, such as whitening or bonding, typically don’t require anesthesia.

How do I know which treatments I actually need?

That’s what the consultation is for. We don’t recommend treatments that aren’t warranted, and we explain the reasoning behind every suggestion so you can evaluate it on your own terms.

Can I get a makeover if my teeth aren’t healthy?

Active issues like decay or gum disease need to be treated first. Once your oral health is stable, cosmetic work can proceed on a solid foundation.

Smile makeovers in Fresno are more accessible than many people expect, and the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’ve been sitting on concerns about your teeth and want to know what’s actually possible, call our office to schedule a consultation. We’ll take a close look, give you honest answers, and help you figure out where to start.