A smile makeover isn't one treatment. It's a plan that combines a few treatments to improve how your smile looks and feels, and at Supertooth Dental at Auckland Airport it always starts with listening to what actually bothers you.
What a smile makeover actually is
Some people are unhappy with the colour of their teeth. Others notice a chipped front tooth, a small gap, edges that have worn down over the years, or teeth that have crowded together. A smile makeover looks at all of this together and works out the simplest way to get you closer to the smile you want.
Before any cosmetic work, we check that your teeth and gums are healthy. Gum disease, decay or a cracked tooth needs to be looked after first, because cosmetic treatment placed on an unhealthy foundation is unlikely to last. The New Zealand Dental Association encourages regular check-ups for exactly this reason.
What a makeover can include
Depending on your goals, a plan might combine one or more of the treatments below. Often whitening plus a little bonding achieves a lot, and you don't always need veneers.
- 1/Teeth whitening to lift the overall colour. It works on natural teeth only, so existing fillings and crowns won't change shade, and some people notice temporary sensitivity.
- 2/Cosmetic bonding, where tooth-coloured composite resin is shaped onto a tooth to repair chips, reshape edges or close small gaps. Little or no tooth needs to be removed, though bonding can stain or chip over time and may need touch-ups.
- 3/Veneers, thin shells that cover the front of teeth for a bigger change in shape or colour. Porcelain veneers usually involve removing a thin layer of enamel, which can't be undone, so we only suggest them when simpler options won't meet your goals.
- 4/Clear aligners to straighten crowded or spaced teeth first. Moving teeth into a better position can mean less tooth needs to be altered later. You'll need to wear a retainer afterwards to hold the result.
How we plan it
We start with a conversation about what you'd like to change, then take a digital scan and X-rays so you can see where things are now. From there we talk through realistic options, including what each one can and can't do, how long it is likely to last and what upkeep it needs.
Because every smile is different, we give you a clear written quote before anything begins. There's no pressure to decide on the day. You can take the plan home, think it over and come back when you're ready. If you're nervous about dental visits, let us know. We go gently, explain each step and you can ask us to pause at any time.
You can read more about the treatments involved on our smile makeover page at supertooth.co.nz/smile-makeover.
Making it affordable
A makeover doesn't have to happen all at once. Many people stage their treatment, for example whitening first, then bonding a few months later, so the cost is spread out and they can see how they feel about each step.
We accept Afterpay, which lets you pay in instalments, subject to Afterpay's own approval and limits. If you have Southern Cross health insurance, we can process claims through Easy-Claim at the counter so you only pay any gap on the day. It's worth checking your policy first, as purely cosmetic treatment is often not covered. ACC also doesn't cover cosmetic work, although it may help where teeth were damaged in an accident, and we can lodge that claim for you.
New patients can start with our $79 first exam including digital X-rays. It's a sensible first step before you commit to anything larger.
Visiting us at Auckland Airport
Supertooth Dental is at the Auckland Airport Shopping Centre, with free parking at the door and appointments available on Sundays. That makes it easier to fit a consultation or a staged treatment plan around work and family life.
Quick questions
- Do I need veneers for a smile makeover?
- Not always. Many people get the change they want with whitening, bonding or aligners. Veneers are one option when bigger changes to shape or colour are needed.
- How long does a smile makeover take?
- It depends on your plan. Whitening and bonding can sometimes be done in one or two visits, while plans that include clear aligners usually take several months.
- Will it look natural?
- That's the goal. We plan colour and shape to suit your face and your other teeth, and we talk through what's realistic before you start.
- How do I get started?
- Book a $79 first exam with digital X-rays online at supertooth.co.nz/contact or call or text 022 852 4000.
Sources: New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA): patient information on cosmetic dentistry, whitening and regular check-ups · Dental Council of New Zealand: standards for dental practitioners and informed consent · Ministry of Health NZ: oral health information for adults · ACC: dental injury cover and what is not covered. This article is general information, not a substitute for an examination and personal advice from a dentist. If you're in pain or unsure, book a visit or call 022 852 4000.
