Extreme Makeover
Santa Monica Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Makeover Dentistry
Extreme Makeover dentistry usually has a reconstructive focus and involves any number of cosmetic and restorative procedures. While a dentist receives professional training in any number of dental procedures, it is the creative and artistic application of those procedures that differentiate Extreme Makeover dentistry from the broader term of cosmetic dentistry.
Qualifications of the Makeover Dentist
Understandably, it takes years and years of successful experience and advanced training to gain the practical knowledge (perhaps expert knowledge) of being able to professionally assess and diagnose dental conditions that are accompanied by a number of "solutions" rather than a single recommendation for treatment.
Identifying the Extreme Makeover Candidate
The gentleman in the adjacent photo had a constellation of dental problems and issues. The patient had teeth that were badly decayed at the gumline under old fillings and crowns. Some of his teeth were abscessed (see pictures below for detail). His bite had also changed over the years as it does with most people as they age.
Over the years your bite gets worn down, which makes your teeth shorter which, in turn, makes your entire face shorter. Your lips lose the support from the teeth and your entire face gets impacted from years of wear and grinding.
Health was a major factor for this patient as he wanted to be healthier for the rest of his life. The patient knew he "needed work" but was unaware of the overall dynamics of his dental problems.
Determining the Extreme Makeover Treatment
Dr. Muslin evaluated the patient and determined that a complete full mouth reconstruction would eliminate all of the decay, infection and abscesses. A complete porcelain reconstruction would also give this patient a balanced, orthodontically correct and healthy bite. As an added bonus, he would have an enhanced smile that would stay with him the rest of his life.
Multiple root canals, replacement of failed fillings, gum reshaping and contouring, and treatment for periodontitis were some of the procedures used in preparing the patient for his extreme makeover.
The reconstruction was done with customized ceramic porcelain crowns and precision porcelain veneers. As can be seen in this dramatic photo, the patient regained form, function and most certainly an aesthetic effect that is dazzling and will endure for years to come.
The Ideal Extreme Makeover Treatment
What is the "ideal" recommendation for treatment? It should be the treatment plan that offers the most options in types of procedures, use of materials and technologies and yet provides the broadest focus on addressing ALL or as many of your dental needs as possible. Only a well tenured cosmetic and reconstructive dentist can provide the various recommendations possible.
Contact Dr. Muslin and his staff today at (310) 829-6796 to obtain a consult for an extreme makeover. Learn what your options are so you can make an informed decision about your dental care.
Review the photos below for more detail:
