Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ
San Diego, California
Will people know I've had my smile done?
Not necessarily. If your smile makeover includes something like tooth whitening or porcelain veneers, which make a huge different in how bright and white your smile is, then yes, people will notice a difference in how you look. But they may not attribute it to dental work. You may hear remarks like, “You look so rested today!” or “Did you change your hairstyle?”, or “How did you get that lovely suntan?”
How quickly will I be able to complete my treatment?
Most cosmetic dentistry procedures can be completed in one to three visits. For example, a smile makeover may involve tooth whitening and placing crowns on some teeth. That would mean doing the tooth whitening first, so that the porcelain used for the crowns could be matched to your new tooth color.
- In the first visit, you would have an in-office tooth whitening treatment. If you choose to whiten your teeth yourself, with a take-home kit, a few weeks would pass while you do that.
- In the second visit, Dr. Loye will carefully prepare the teeth to be crowned, and place temporary crowns.
- In the third visit, your new crowns will be placed and permanently bonded.
The total time from start to finish? Less than a month, and sooner if necessary. An exception to this would be Invisalign, which is an alternative to traditional braces. Orthodontic work takes longer, because the teeth must move, change their position in the jawbone.
How long will my new smile last?
Today's cosmetic dentistry materials are very strong and resistant to wearing and breakage. With regular checkups and good daily care, your smile should last for many, many years.
What questions should I ask when looking for a cosmetic dentist?
Ask what professional organizations the dentist belongs to. The field of dentistry has been changing quickly in recent years and the best dentists keep up-to-date by belonging to professional dental organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Such organizations offer seminars and courses in new techniques and technology, and also keep a dentist in touch with his peers.
Dr. Loye is a graduate of the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI). This is post-graduate education, beyond the standard undergraduate dental school. A dentist with the LVI logo in his site will be a good choice.
For more on how to find a good cosmetic dentist, see our Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist page.
I've always been afraid of the dentist. How can I feel more comfortable?
Most modern dentists offer some form of sedation as well as local anesthetic. We offer oral sedatives and nitrous oxide to help you relax and feel calm and confident. This is usually referred to as Sedation Dentistry.
Most modern cosmetic dentists also have very pleasant offices, with comfortable chairs, pillows, blankets, warm towels, etc. Many also have pleasing artwork on the walls, and paint and furnishings in nicely designed colors. The cold waiting rooms our grandparents knew are a thing of the past. Dental staff is trained to consider your comfort as a high priority. If you feel nervous when you arrive at your dentist’s office, by all means say so, and you will be given some extra care and attention.
How would a new smile change my life?
It is not uncommon for patients to quietly weep with joy, hug their dentist, or even kiss them! Patients tell us they are filled with relief and new self-confidence. Often they feel more outgoing. Most of them can't stop smiling!
Professionals tell us of greater career success, probably because they became more friendly at work, or more confident about what they were doing. Older patients look and feel years younger. Certainly you will have increased dental health, always a positive thing.
We offer smile makeovers and a full range of cosmetic dentistry to residents of San Diego, California. If you would like to learn more about what dental options are available to you, please call or email us to arrange for a free consultation. We will be glad to meet with you and answer your questions.
Contact Us
The Dentist that Makes You Smile!
3830 Valley Center Drive, Suite 702
San Diego, CA 92130
