Atlanta Dentist Answers: What is Natural Smile Design?
Chances are you wouldn’t notice if a close friend or co-worker had high quality cosmetic and restorative dental work done. They would simply have a vibrant, healthy-looking smile. Chances are equally great that you would immediately notice if that same person had received dental work of poor quality and execution. Their smile might look a bit too symmetrical, the enamel a bit too bright, or the teeth a touch too large for the mouth. Indeed, most dental professionals and laypeople agree that the very best dental work looks as though no dental work was ever performed. Leading industry experts developed the concept of natural smile design to describe a philosophy of ethical, esthetic cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. David Zelby, an experienced Atlanta prosthodontist and dentist, discusses the primary goals of natural smile design and how a skilled dentist can accomplish those goals.
Re-establish Good Oral Health First
A smile makeover that doesn’t first address underlying oral health issues first won’t look good for very long. Dr. Zelby asserts that the natural smile design must first bring the health of the teeth, gums, and other oral structures up to an acceptable level before moving on to cosmetic concerns. Achieving this could be as simple as performing a thorough cleaning before applying a teeth whitening treatment or cosmetic dental bonding. On the other hand, people with significant oral health problems may need more intensive measures before their smile is healthy enough for cosmetic dentistry.
Restore the Mouth’s Optimal Function
Restorative and cosmetic procedures often overlap since both aim to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. However, restorative techniques also endeavor to return the proper function of the teeth and jaws. If you have old dental work, worn enamel, broken or cracked teeth, TMJ dysfunction, or need to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant or bridgework, a dentist who practices natural smile design will address these problems within the context of your overall treatment plan.
A Smile in Harmony
While there may be a family resemblance between you and your mom, cousins, or great-grandpa, your face is unique to you. Dentists who follow the natural smile design philosophy take the singular look of your face into account when designing your new smile. From the size of your jaw to the general shape of your face and the prominence of your chin and cheekbones, an ideal smile must blend with a number of distinct elements. The cosmetic dental procedures your dentist recommends will be tailored to suit your natural facial structure. The result? A naturally gorgeous smile that perfectly complements your overall image.
Enjoy Your Best Smile in Atlanta!
If you have chipped or discolored teeth or would like to see how cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve your best smile ever, call Dr. David Zelby at (770) 955-0550. Dr. Zelby and the expert team at Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta can return your smile to optimal health, function, and beauty. Our Atlanta dentist office proudly serves patients in Marietta, Smyrna, East Cobb, Buckhead, Vinings, and Metro Atlanta.
