Smile makeover
A smile makeover is not a single procedure. It is a plan that combines the treatments your teeth need to look brighter, more even and more in harmony with your face.
Overview
A smile makeover combines cosmetic treatments such as porcelain veneers, crowns, composite bonding, whitening and gum contouring into one plan. At Rubi Smile, a dentist assesses your teeth, gums and bite, designs the result with you, and treats any underlying problems first. Most cosmetic-only makeovers are completed in one visit of several days; plans that include implants take longer.
- Typical stay
- Several days, depending on the plan
- Treatments used
- Veneers, crowns, bonding, whitening, gum contouring
- Materials
- E-max, Empress, zirconia, composite
- Planning
- Smile design agreed with you
Many people who want a new smile have more than one thing they would like to change: the colour of their teeth, small gaps, chipped or worn edges, an uneven gum line, or old fillings and crowns that no longer match. A smile makeover looks at all of these together.
The aim at Rubi Smile is a result that suits you. Some patients want a very natural improvement; others prefer a brighter, more uniform look. We listen to what you would like to change and what you would like to keep, then design a smile that fits your face, your personality and your budget.
Is it right for you?
Often suitable when
- You want to change several aspects of your smile at once
- Your teeth are discoloured in a way whitening alone cannot fix
- Teeth are chipped, worn, uneven in length or have small gaps
- Old crowns or fillings look dark or no longer match
- Your gums and remaining teeth are healthy, or can be treated first
Another option may be better when
- Only the colour bothers you: whitening may be enough
- One or two small chips or gaps: composite bonding can be more conservative
- Teeth are significantly crooked: orthodontic treatment may be the better first step
- You have active gum disease or decay that must be treated first
- You grind your teeth heavily and do not want to wear a night guard
How the treatment works
A makeover is built from individual treatments chosen for each tooth. Typically this includes porcelain veneers on visible front teeth, crowns on teeth that are heavily filled or root-treated, composite bonding for small corrections, whitening for teeth that are not restored, and gum contouring where the gum line is uneven.
We plan the sequence so that each step supports the next. For example, whitening is done before shade-matching new restorations, and gum contouring is done before veneers are made.
Assessment and planning
Your first appointment includes a full examination, photographs and any X-rays needed. We check the health of each tooth, your gums and how your teeth meet when you bite.
We then plan the smile with you: shade, shape, length and proportions. You see the proposed design before any tooth is prepared, and you can ask for changes. Your written plan lists the treatment for each tooth, the materials, the number of days and the cost.
Treatment stages
Consultation and examination
We discuss what you would like to change and examine your teeth, gums and bite.
Smile design
We agree the shape, length and shade of your new smile together, and confirm the treatment for each tooth.
Preparation and foundations
Any necessary general treatment is done first. Teeth for veneers or crowns are prepared as conservatively as possible.
Trial and adjustment
Where appropriate you try the restorations so we can adjust shape and fit before final bonding.
Final restorations
Veneers and crowns are bonded, your bite is checked, and you receive aftercare instructions.
Materials and techniques
Porcelain veneers are made from E-max or Empress ceramic, which is thin, strong and has a natural translucency. Crowns are made from zirconia, E-max or, where appropriate, porcelain fused to metal. Composite bonding uses tooth-coloured resin matched to your natural teeth. Your plan specifies the material for each tooth.
Recovery and aftercare
Cosmetic treatment does not usually involve a recovery period in the surgical sense. After veneers or crowns, teeth can feel sensitive to cold for a few days and your bite may feel different while you get used to it. If gum contouring is part of your plan, the gums may be tender for a short time.
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods in the first days
- Keep up careful brushing and cleaning between teeth
- Tell us if your bite feels high or uncomfortable after a few days
Risks and limitations
Like any dental treatment, a smile makeover has limitations and risks that we discuss with you before you decide:
- Removal of enamel for veneers or crowns is irreversible
- Temporary or longer-lasting tooth sensitivity
- Restorations can chip, crack or debond, especially with grinding
- Shade of restorations does not change with whitening later
- A small number of teeth may need root canal treatment after preparation
- Gum recession over time can expose restoration margins
Longevity and maintenance
With good oral hygiene, regular check-ups and protection from grinding where needed, ceramic veneers and crowns can last many years. Composite bonding generally needs polishing or repair sooner than ceramic. No restoration lasts forever, and some will need replacement during your lifetime.
What affects the cost
Every makeover is different. The main factors that affect the cost are:
- The number of teeth treated and the treatment for each
- The material chosen (composite, E-max, Empress, zirconia)
- Whether gum contouring, whitening or general treatment is needed first
- Whether implants are part of the plan
- The number of visits required
We do not publish fixed prices because every plan is different. After reviewing your X-rays or scans, we send a written, itemised quote.
Compared with alternatives
| Option | What it changes | Tooth preparation | Typical durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitening only | Colour of natural teeth | None | Fades gradually, can be refreshed |
| Composite bonding | Small chips, gaps, shape | Little or none | Shorter; may need repair |
| Porcelain veneers | Colour, shape, small gaps | Minimal to moderate | Long-lasting with care |
| Crowns | Whole tooth, strength and shape | More extensive | Long-lasting with care |
General guidance only. Your dentist will recommend what suits each tooth.
If you are travelling to us
Cosmetic makeovers without implants can usually be completed in one visit. Your plan states how many days you need. Plan a quieter final day so that small adjustments can be made before you fly home.
If you have existing crowns, fillings or X-rays, send us details in advance so we can plan more accurately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a smile makeover take?
A makeover with veneers, crowns, bonding or whitening is usually completed in one visit lasting several days. If implants are part of the plan, a second visit after the healing period is needed.
Will I be able to choose how white my teeth are?
Yes. We discuss shade with you and recommend a colour that looks natural with your skin tone and face, but the final choice is made together.
Do veneers damage my teeth?
Veneers usually need some enamel to be removed, which cannot be reversed. We keep preparation as minimal as possible, and we will tell you if a more conservative option would work.
Can I have a makeover if I have missing teeth?
Yes, but missing teeth are usually replaced with implants or bridges as part of the plan, which affects the timeline. We explain the options after reviewing your X-rays.
What happens if a veneer chips after I go home?
Contact us with photos. Small chips can sometimes be polished or repaired; we will advise you on the best next step.
Written by the Rubi Smile patient team to explain treatment options in plain language. Clinical review by a Rubi Smile dentist is scheduled before publication. Pending clinical review
Related treatments
Porcelain Veneers
Thin E-max or Empress ceramic shells that change colour, shape and symmetry with minimal preparation.
Dental Crowns
A custom cap that restores the shape, strength and appearance of a damaged tooth.
Teeth Whitening
In-clinic laser whitening in about an hour, aiming for a brighter shade that still looks natural.
Start with a conversation, not a commitment.
Send us your questions and, if you have them, recent X-rays or photos. A dentist reviews your case and our coordinators explain the options, the likely timeline and the cost before you plan any travel.