Tackling Common Smile Makeover Myths

Heather E. Martinson, DDS • October 13, 2024

Did you know that, according to Psychology Today, around 85% of people suffer from low self-esteem? There are countless reasons why this could occur, but having low confidence in one's appearance is one of the most common culprits. One of the easiest ways to handle this issue is to improve your smile.

A smile makeover can completely transform a person's confidence, yet many myths surrounding these procedures might make some hesitant. Knowing the fine details can help you make an informed choice for a brighter, healthier smile. Let us dispel common misunderstandings about this procedure.

Smile Makeovers Are Only for Aesthetics

Many believe that a smile makeover is purely cosmetic, overlooking the health benefits it can bring. Procedures involved in a dental makeover, such as straightening misaligned teeth, can improve oral hygiene by making it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Healthier teeth and gums often follow, lowering the risk of gum disease or tooth decay. Moreover, a well-aligned bite can reduce strain on the jaw, which may alleviate tension headaches and jaw pain. Cosmetic dentistry offers more than a superficial improvement, as it is a step toward a healthier, more functional smile.

Only Celebrities Can Get Smile Makeovers

A common misconception is that smile makeovers are only accessible to celebrities or the wealthy. However, many affordable options allow almost anyone to enhance their smile.

Various payment plans are often available, allowing patients to spread costs over time and making treatments far more accessible. People can choose from a wide range of smile enhancement options, from teeth whitening to veneers, based on their budget and needs. A brighter, more confident smile is not just for Hollywood; it is achievable for anyone willing to explore the possibilities.

The Procedures Are Painful

People often fear that a dental makeover will involve a lot of pain, but most procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible. Technological advances have made cosmetic dentistry significantly more gentle, often requiring little to no anesthesia for less invasive treatments.

Many patients report mild discomfort, similar to routine dental cleanings or fillings. Dentists also take steps to ensure a relaxing experience, offering sedation options for those with anxiety about dental work. Ultimately, most patients find the temporary discomfort worth the long-term benefits of a transformed smile.

Smile Makeovers Will Look Fake

There is a lingering myth that smile makeovers create an artificial look, making teeth appear too white or unnatural. However, cosmetic dentistry today focuses on creating a natural and balanced look tailored to each person's features. Dentists consider factors like:

Facial structure
Skin tone
Even personal style preferences

Doing so helps achieve a subtle, authentic appearance. The goal is a smile that looks enhanced, not exaggerated. People can confidently opt for a teeth transformation, knowing it will be designed to blend seamlessly with their unique facial aesthetics.

It Is Just About Whitening

A smile makeover involves far more than just whitening. Although whitening can be part of the process, other procedures, such as straightening or reshaping teeth, also contribute to a balanced smile. A comprehensive makeover may include:

Porcelain veneers
Bonding
Orthodontics

Dentists often assess the smile, ensuring every element complements the overall appearance. Patients can achieve a smile that suits their personal goals by considering various options beyond whitening.

Smile Makeovers Are Not for Older Adults

Some think smile makeovers are best suited for younger individuals, but age is not a barrier to a healthier, more attractive smile. Older adults benefit from smile enhancements just as much, particularly with options that address common age-related issues.

Procedures that restore worn-down teeth or replace missing teeth help support overall facial structure and provide a youthful boost. Modern techniques also allow dentists to address common concerns while being mindful of comfort and recovery time. Adults of any age can achieve their ideal smile with various smile enhancement options.

They Weaken Natural Teeth

Concerns about tooth strength are common, but most cosmetic procedures prioritize preserving natural teeth. Treatments like veneers, tooth bonding, and contouring are designed to work with the existing structure without compromising strength.

Dentists strive to use minimally invasive methods that enhance the appearance of teeth while maintaining their health. For those who need restorative work, procedures can even strengthen teeth and prevent future issues. A dental makeover typically enhances both the look and durability of a person's smile.

They Require Extensive Work

People often assume that a smile makeover involves lengthy procedures, but this is only sometimes the case. Some patients may only need minor adjustments, like bonding or reshaping, to achieve their desired smile. With modern advances, many procedures can be completed in one visit, making the process convenient for busy schedules.

Dentists carefully evaluate individual needs to create a tailored approach so patients get the best results with minimal disruption. A smile makeover can be as straightforward or comprehensive as needed, depending on the patient's goals.

They Require Extensive Work

It is a misconception that a full smile transformation takes years when many treatments can be done within weeks or even days. Advances in dental technology allow quicker results, and some options (like veneers or contouring) can provide immediate changes.

While specific treatments (such as orthodontic) may take longer, dentists often offer alternatives to speed up the process. People with tight schedules can work with their dentist to create a timeline that fits their lifestyle. Achieving a beautiful smile does not always require a lengthy commitment.

Take Advantage of This Procedure

A smile makeover can boost your confidence and appearance. This guide's information will help you make the right decision for your needs.

Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS, combines 25 years of expertise with advanced dental technology to deliver exceptional cosmetic and restorative services. We offer same-day crowns and a holistic approach to oral health, ensuring personalized care in a comfortable setting. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Dr. Heather E. Martinson

D.D.S

Dr. Martinson has been serving patients and improving smiles through her work for the past 25 years. She attended both Southern University in Tennessee and the University of Texas at Arlington before earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in Southern California. She is a graduate of The Dawson Academy in Florida and the Schuster Center in Arizona, and has completed several cosmetic, implant and restorative continuing education courses. Dr. Martinson has also earned certification in the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. This allows her to provide Botox and dermal fillers to her dental patients.

The favorite part of Dr. Martinson’s job is being able to work closely with so many wonderful people and help them become healthier! And also help them to avoid heart attacks and strokes!

Dr. Martinson is married to Captain Myron Martinson (formerly a pilot with American Airlines). Together they have several 4-legged kiddos. When she is not busy at work, she enjoys bicycling, gardening, cooking, entertaining and traveling with family.

Dr. Martinson maintains active membership in the following professional organizations:

The Dental Implant Process Explained

By Heather E. Martinson, DDS • May 21, 2025

Undergoing a comprehensive surgical procedure, such as a dental implant, can be a big step. Still, studies like one by Tobias et al. (2025) report over a 97% success rate , even after five years. These show that it can offer significant long-term benefits with a reasonable guarantee of retention. So, if you are searching for a reliable solution to a dental issue, Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS, may be the one to choose for state-of-the-art implant surgery, but what does it entail? Below, our dental implants guide describes the dental implant process step-by-step to help you understand and feel more comfortable getting the smile you want. Explore each stage, from the initial consultation to attaching the crown. Then, discover what you might want to discuss with Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS, to ensure you get the desired results. Why Dental Implants are Our Best Fix for Missing Teeth Unlike crowns or fillings, dental implants are not a simple cap on an existing tooth . Nor are they intended to be temporary. Instead, they replace both the tooth's root and crown , preserving the jawbone and structure of the face by offering a complete prosthetic that the body should accept as its own. Titanium posts integrate with the bone and offer a very stable foundation for chewing. This is one of the reasons studies such as those by Kupka et al (2024) have found that dental implants often last for decades, with 80% continuing to last for over 20 years. With crowns, you will still need to be careful of what you bite into in case the prosthetic detaches from the tooth. However, implants can often restore the full force of your bite. For this reason, Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS , and her team prefer to use these prostheses, eliminating several difficulties one might encounter with other options. How Gaps Affect Function and Appearance We understand that it can sometimes be tempting to leave tooth gaps as they are due to the perceived hassle of installing a new implant. However, missing teeth can drastically impact the mouth beyond issues with appearance or speech patterns, as it can cause the jawbone itself to start "sagging" where the tooth no longer exists. Teeth may also begin to shift position, leading to bite issues. Early restoration via a professionally-implanted denture can prevent this loss and maintain the face's proportions. Perfect for maintaining a youthful visage. Why Implants Outperform Bridges and Dentures Bridges and dentures are critical parts of a high-quality dentistry offering . However, they do not tend to last as long as an implant due to how implants preserve the underlying bone. This fact may go a long way towards explaining why the NIDCR in the US has recently discussed a " fourfold increase " in the number of adults receiving dental implants over two decades. Still, that doesn't mean discounting these options. If you feel a bridge or denture may be best for you, you should discuss your options with our dental team . Discuss the pros and cons of each option. In some cases, implant-supported dentures are also available , allowing for a combination of both. Dental Implant Process Step-by-Step at Heather Martinson DDS Our implant procedure steps combine: Consultations 3D imaging Surgical planning Continual checks for precision Constant coordination with colleagues Using these, we can ensure that your results are accurate and efficient. Initial Consultation and 3D Scan The first step is always to take a detailed medical and dental history . Using this, we can determine if you have any risk factors, such as smoking habits, that we need to be aware of so we can help maintain your safety. Then, we will assess how your jaw aligns to ensure we do not interfere with this. Our advanced scanner can capture 3-dimensional images of every part of your mouth for precision-planning, including: Jawbones Sinuses Nerve canals Details of prior surgery We can even use this to preview the final outcome before surgery, allowing you to understand the most likely results and give a go-ahead from a position of knowledge. Precise Implant Placement Before the final crown "tooth" can be placed in the jaw, you will require surgery to install the implant itself. This implant is the structure that sits in your jawbone, maintaining the visible crown's position while preventing it from moving. This step involves local anesthesia or other forms of sedation to ensure your comfort. Then, the dentist will create a path for your implant to sit within your jaw. The implant is up to 5mm in diameter and up to 13mm in length, meaning it is robust enough to prevent damage due to torsion or other forces. After the placement, the dentist will use sutures and a protective cap to shield the site. During this healing phase, the implant undergoes "osseointegration," which is the growth of bone cells around the implant surface. This process takes up to six months to ensure it integrates with the body. Once the dentist is sure that your body has accepted the implant, they will reveal the site of the implant and perform a scan to ensure that an external lab can produce a perfect crown for the area, matching your prior teeth as closely as possible. After the final attachment, you can review the tooth , offering feedback such as colour adjustments or determining whether it needs minor alteration to match your bite. Long-Term Implant Care The Arlington, TX, dental care experts can offer advice and guidance on the best steps to ensure that the implant lasts as long as possible and remains comfortable. However, should you need anything else , their clinic will be available for you to follow up, so ask them for more details on how you need to schedule follow-up appointments to ensure you get the best results. Take the Next Step with One of the Best Dentists in Arlington After learning the dental implant process step-by-step , you should understand what it entails and be able to make better healthcare decisions. With over 25 years of experience in Arlington, TX, we can ensure your treatment focuses on improving your dental health and restoring your natural and healthy beauty using the latest techniques and advances. If you want to investigate the possibility of an implant, remember that you can always request a free consultation with Heather Martinson, DDS. Following that, you should be able to begin your journey to regain your full chewing ability and a confident smile.