Question 1

What exactly is included in a smile makeover, and how is it different from a full mouth reconstruction?

Accepted Answer

A smile makeover is a personalized combination of cosmetic dental procedures designed to enhance the appearance of your smile. It typically includes treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, clear aligners, and sometimes gum contouring—all focused on improving aesthetics. The key difference between a smile makeover and full mouth reconstruction is the primary goal. While smile makeovers focus primarily on cosmetic improvements, full mouth reconstructions address significant functional problems like missing teeth, severe decay, or bite issues. Think of a smile makeover as a cosmetic renovation for a structurally sound house, while full mouth reconstruction is more like rebuilding a house with foundation issues. Many patients actually need elements of both, which is why Dr. Sharbash creates completely customized treatment plans based on your specific needs and goals.

Question 2

How long does a complete smile makeover take from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

The timeline for a smile makeover varies widely depending on the specific treatments included in your personalized plan. A simple makeover involving teeth whitening and bonding might be completed in just 1-2 visits over a couple of weeks. More comprehensive makeovers involving veneers typically require 2-3 visits over 3-4 weeks. If your plan includes orthodontic treatment like clear aligners, the overall timeline extends to 6-18 months, with other cosmetic procedures scheduled to complement the straightening process. During your consultation, Dr. Sharbash will provide a detailed timeline specific to your treatment plan, including any preparatory procedures needed. The good news? Even for longer treatment plans, you'll likely notice significant improvements in your smile's appearance after just the first few appointments!

Question 3

How much does a smile makeover cost, and is it covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Smile makeover costs vary significantly based on the specific procedures included in your personalized treatment plan. A basic makeover involving professional whitening and minor bonding might start around $1,500, while comprehensive makeovers including multiple veneers, crowns, or orthodontic treatment can range from $5,000 to $30,000. Regarding insurance, most dental plans provide little to no coverage for purely cosmetic procedures. However, when treatments serve both cosmetic and functional purposes—like crowns that restore damaged teeth while improving appearance—insurance may provide partial coverage. Our experienced team works closely with patients to maximize any available insurance benefits and offers flexible payment plans through CareCredit to make your dream smile more affordable. During your consultation, we'll provide a detailed cost breakdown specific to your treatment plan, with no surprises or hidden fees.

Question 4

Will my smile makeover look natural, or will people be able to tell I've had dental work?

Accepted Answer

Creating natural-looking results is our specialty! Dr. Sharbash takes a conservative, artistic approach to smile makeovers, focusing on enhancements that complement your facial features, skin tone, and personality rather than creating an obviously 'done' appearance. We avoid the dreaded 'chiclet teeth' look by carefully designing each restoration with subtle variations in shape, texture, and translucency that mimic natural teeth. During your consultation, we use digital smile design technology to show you previews of your potential results and make adjustments based on your feedback. Many patients tell us that after their makeover, friends and family notice they look somehow 'refreshed' or 'rejuvenated' but can't quite put their finger on what changed—the hallmark of excellent cosmetic dentistry! The most common feedback we hear from patients is, 'I wish I'd done this years ago!'

Question 5

How do I know which smile makeover procedures are right for me?

Accepted Answer

Determining the ideal procedures for your smile makeover begins with understanding your specific concerns and goals. Are you primarily concerned with tooth color? Alignment? Shape? Gaps or chips? During your comprehensive consultation, Dr. Sharbash will discuss these concerns while evaluating factors like: The current condition of your teeth and gums, Your facial structure and features, Your budget and timeline preferences, Any functional issues that need addressing. Based on this assessment, we'll recommend a customized treatment plan that may include a combination of procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, orthodontics, or gum contouring. We often present multiple treatment options with different approaches, allowing you to choose the path that best aligns with your priorities. The final decision is always yours, and we're here to provide the information you need to make confident choices about your smile transformation.

Question 6

How long do smile makeover results last?

Accepted Answer

The longevity of your smile makeover depends largely on the specific procedures performed and your commitment to maintenance. Here's what you can expect for different components: Professional teeth whitening: Results typically last 1-3 years, with touch-ups needed periodically, Dental bonding: Usually lasts 5-7 years before needing touch-ups or replacement, Porcelain veneers: With proper care, veneers can last 15+ years, Dental crowns: Quality crowns typically last 10-15 years, Clear aligner results: Permanent with proper retainer use. To maximize the lifespan of your smile makeover, we recommend following a thorough home care routine, attending regular dental check-ups, wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth, and avoiding habits like nail biting or using your teeth as tools. Some patients choose to extend the life of their results with occasional touch-up treatments, like teeth whitening refreshers every 1-2 years.

Question 7

Is a smile makeover painful or uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

Most smile makeover procedures involve minimal discomfort, nothing that can't be easily managed with local anesthesia and over-the-counter pain relievers. For procedures like veneers or crowns that require minor tooth preparation, we ensure you're completely numb before beginning any work. Many patients are surprised by how comfortable the entire process is! For those with dental anxiety, we offer additional comfort options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for a more relaxed experience. Dr. Sharbash is known for her gentle approach and takes time to ensure patients feel comfortable throughout their treatment. Most patients report that any minor discomfort experienced during or after procedures is well worth the confidence and joy their new smile brings them. As one patient put it, 'Getting my smile makeover was much easier than I expected—and the results changed my life!'

Question 8

What's the maintenance like for a smile makeover? Will I need special products or care?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining your smile makeover is surprisingly straightforward! For most patients, it simply involves: Brushing twice daily with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste, Flossing daily to protect your gum health, Attending regular dental check-ups every 6 months, Wearing a protective nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth. Depending on your specific procedures, we might recommend a few additional steps. For example, if you have veneers or bonding, avoiding biting directly into very hard foods can prevent damage. If your makeover included whitening, occasional touch-up treatments help maintain brightness. No special products are required, though we may suggest specific toothpastes or mouth rinses based on your unique needs. The best part? Most patients find that their enhanced smile actually motivates them to take better care of their teeth—a win-win for both appearance and long-term oral health!

Question 9

Can I see examples of smile makeovers Dr. Sharbash has completed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! During your consultation, we'll share a portfolio of before-and-after photos from patients who have consented to share their smile transformations. These examples showcase Dr. Sharbash's artistic approach and technical expertise with various cosmetic procedures. What's particularly valuable about our smile gallery is the diversity of cases—from minor enhancements to dramatic transformations, and everything in between. This allows you to see results similar to what you might be envisioning for your own smile. We're also happy to connect you with patient testimonials or reviews from individuals who've undergone similar procedures. Due to patient privacy, we don't publish all cases online, but our in-office portfolio provides a comprehensive look at the beautiful, natural-looking results Dr. Sharbash consistently delivers. Many patients find these examples incredibly helpful in visualizing their own potential outcomes.

Question 10

I'm interested in a smile makeover but worried about the cost. Are there financing options available?

Accepted Answer

We believe everyone deserves access to their dream smile, regardless of budget constraints! That's why we offer several financing options to make your smile makeover more affordable: CareCredit: This healthcare credit card allows you to break down your treatment cost into manageable monthly payments, often with interest-free periods for qualifying patients, Phased treatment plans: We can strategically sequence your procedures over time to spread out the financial investment, Payment plans: For certain treatments, we offer in-office payment plans tailored to your budget, Insurance maximization: Where applicable, we'll help you maximize any insurance benefits for procedures with functional benefits. During your consultation, our treatment coordinator will discuss all available options and help create a financial plan that works with your budget. We're transparent about all costs upfront—no surprises or hidden fees. Many patients tell us that investing in their smile was one of the best decisions they ever made, with the confidence boost and life enhancement far outweighing the financial consideration.

Question 11

Can I preview what my smile will look like before committing to treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We use advanced digital smile design technology that allows you to 'try on' your new smile before any treatment begins. During your consultation, we'll take digital photographs and impressions of your current smile, then create virtual simulations of your potential results with different treatment options. This visual preview serves several important purposes: It helps ensure your expectations align with what's clinically possible, It allows you to provide feedback on specific aspects you'd like to adjust, It gives you confidence in the potential outcome before investing in treatment. For some procedures like veneers, we can even create a physical 'mock-up' that temporarily shows how your new smile would look and feel. This try-before-you-buy approach eliminates guesswork and ensures you'll be thrilled with your final results. As Dr. Sharbash often says, 'The most successful smile makeovers begin with clear communication and visualization of the end goal.'

Question 12

I have dental anxiety. Is a smile makeover still possible for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Many of our smile makeover patients initially come to us with dental anxiety or even phobia. Dr. Sharbash specializes in creating comfortable, positive experiences for anxious patients through: Gentle techniques and a compassionate approach, Clear communication about what to expect during each procedure, Comfortable amenities like blankets, pillows, and noise-canceling headphones, Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for a relaxed treatment experience, Breaks whenever needed during treatment. We find that anxious patients often do best with a gradual approach—starting with simple, non-invasive procedures to build confidence before moving on to more comprehensive treatments. Many patients report that their anxiety diminishes significantly after just their first appointment, once they experience our judgment-free, patient-centered approach. Remember, dental anxiety is incredibly common, and we're experienced in helping patients overcome it. Your comfort is our priority, and we'll work at whatever pace feels right for you.

Question 13

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for a smile makeover?

Accepted Answer

Most people seeking cosmetic smile improvements are excellent candidates for some form of smile makeover. The ideal candidate: Has generally good oral health, with no active gum disease or significant decay, Has realistic expectations about treatment outcomes, Is committed to maintaining good oral hygiene after treatment, Is unhappy with aspects of their smile appearance (color, shape, alignment, etc.). That said, even if you have underlying dental issues, you can still be a candidate for a comprehensive smile transformation—it may simply require addressing health concerns before proceeding with cosmetic procedures. During your consultation, Dr. Sharbash will evaluate factors like tooth structure, gum health, bite alignment, and oral habits to determine if any preliminary treatments are needed before beginning your cosmetic procedures. The most important qualification is simply your desire to improve your smile! From there, we can develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation, goals, and budget.

Smile Makeover in Newport Beach, CA

Make Your Dream Smile a Reality With a Smile Makeover

What Is a Smile Makeover?

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Smile Makeover in Newport Beach?

See Your New Smile Before Treatment Begins

Smile Makeover Treatment Combinations

What Is the Process of a Smile Makeover?

Schedule Your Smile Makeover at Newport Beach Dental Center

Frequently Asked Questions About Smile Makeovers

What's the difference between a smile makeover and full mouth reconstruction?

How much does a smile makeover cost in Newport Beach?

How long does a complete smile makeover take?

Will my smile makeover look natural?

Can I preview my new smile before committing to treatment?

I have dental anxiety. Can I still get a smile makeover?

Ready for Comfortable, Anxiety-Free Dental Care?

Get in Touch

1441 Avocado Ave, Ste 606
Newport Beach, CA 92660

(949) 760-9212

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Contact

Quick Links

Services

Resources

We Are Here For You