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Designing Signature Smiles: Blending Artistic Vision with Modern Dentistry

Alisa M. Reed, DDS | Dental Designs by Alisa Reed
ATE 2024

Q&A

Cosmetic Dentist

I don’t like my gummy smile. What can I do?

You’re not stuck with your gummy smile forever. With modern laser technology, we can sculpt and elevate your gum line to reveal more of your teeth, instantly enhancing your smile. Unlike traditional methods like a scalpel or a laser that burns the gums, the erbium laser that we use does not create heat!  This ensures minimal shrinkage post-healing, without the need for sutures. Plus, there’s hardly any downtime. In most cases, you can return to work after the treatment, and the pain level is minimal.

How can I get a natural-looking smile makeover? I don’t want to look “done.”

Achieving a natural-looking smile makeover requires effective communication with your dentist. Articulate your preferences clearly and bring in photos of smiles you like and dislike. Beyond tooth color, various factors such as the shape, length, and evenness of the gumline must be considered. When selecting veneers or crowns for the anterior teeth, modern porcelain materials offer the capability to emulate a natural appearance. Additionally, integrating treatments such as Invisalign to address teeth misalignment and teeth whitening to enhance brightness can further contribute to achieving natural-looking results.

What’s included in a comprehensive exam?

Your dental exam is more than just checking for cavities. We take a comprehensive approach, diving into your medical and dental history, including medications that may impact your oral health. We’ll discuss your diet and oral hygiene habits, offering suggestions for improvement. If you’re feeling nervous, we have you covered with comfort solutions. Expect a thorough periodontal evaluation and scrutiny of teeth condition, restorations, enamel wear, and bite alignment. We use the digital iTero scanner that allows you to see a 3D model of your teeth so you can visualize what’s going on in your mouth. We also assess your jaw and screen for sleep apnea, which can affect your teeth. It’s not just a check-up, but a holistic dental experience tailored to your well-being.

How long does smile whitening last?

Typically, results last for five years or more, though factors like smoking or consuming teeth-staining beverages like coffee and wine can hasten fading. Maintaining good oral hygiene with brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings helps prolong whitening effects. You can also supplement with over-the-counter whitening solutions like trays and strips. A few nights of application every three to four months can do wonders. Most people prefer to do in-office Zoom whitening because it’s so convenient. We also provide trays with our Zoom whitening so you can brighten up before any special event.

I’d like to get veneers, but should I be concerned about getting my teeth ground down?

Considering veneers is a positive step towards achieving a confident, carefree smile. For those concerned about tooth reduction, prepless or minimal-prep veneers offer a solution. These ultra-thin porcelain restorations require little to no drilling, preserving your natural tooth structure. They effectively enhance color, fill spaces, and conceal imperfections. While prepless veneers suit many, traditional veneers may be recommended for optimal aesthetics. We use a conservative approach, minimizing tooth alteration while ensuring a stunning result.  

About The Expert

Alisa M. Reed, DDS Dental Designs by Alisa Reed
Alisa M. Reed, DDS
Dental Designs by Alisa Reed

Dr. Reed obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at Louisiana State University. She regularly attends continuing education classes and focuses on areas including sleep apnea, cosmetic and family dentistry, comprehensive restorative dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, Invisalign, and best practices for safety and sterilization.   

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