The reasons people consider changing their smile often shift with different stages of life. Teenagers and young adults may focus on improving alignment or colour. Meanwhile, people in midlife often look to address tooth wear, replace missing teeth, or update older dental treatments. Later in life, many explore ways to enhance comfort, function, and appearance, making it easier to enjoy daily activities, such as eating and speaking.
Age can influence the way a treatment plan is developed, but it is not the only factor. A smile makeover suitability assessment takes into account your current oral health, lifestyle, and medical history. This approach helps your dentist recommend options that are practical, well-balanced, and suited to your situation.
In this blog, we’ll explore how suitability is assessed. You’ll learn about the steps dentists take to check if a smile makeover is appropriate for your needs. You’ll also explore treatment types that may work well at various ages.
Contents
- Summary of the Article
- What Is a Smile Makeover in Cosmetic Dentistry?
- How Is Smile Makeover Suitability Assessed at Every Age?
- What Dental Treatments Are Included in a Smile Makeover?
- Creating a Beautiful Smile: What Else Influences Treatment Planning?
- What to Expect During a Dental Consultation
- Final Thoughts
Summary of the Article
- A smile makeover involves one or more cosmetic dental procedures to improve the appearance of teeth while supporting oral health and function.
- Suitability is assessed during a comprehensive consultation, with plans tailored to each patient’s needs, goals, and dental condition.
- For young adults, dentists confirm facial growth is complete, oral hygiene is maintained, and teeth are healthy before considering treatments like whitening or orthodontics.
- In adults aged 30-50 years, assessments check for wear, bite alignment, existing restorations, and lifestyle factors before recommending options like veneers, bonding, or whitening.
- In mature adults, evaluations include medical history, gum and bone health, and the stability of previous dental work before suggesting crowns, implants, or bridges.
- Potential treatments include whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, bridges, implants, or orthodontics.
- Treatment planning also considers oral hygiene habits, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
- Consultations include a clinical exam, imaging if required, and a discussion of preferences and options.
What Is a Smile Makeover in Cosmetic Dentistry?
A smile makeover is a personalised dental treatment plan that combines one or more cosmetic procedures to improve your smile’s appearance. These may include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, crowns, or orthodontics, chosen according to your specific dental needs and goals. By combining treatments, a smile makeover can address several concerns, such as discolouration, alignment issues, or uneven tooth shape, in a coordinated way.
Cosmetic dentistry aims to enhance the look of your teeth while also promoting function and overall oral health. This means treatment is not purely aesthetic—your dentist will also consider how your bite, speech, and chewing ability may be affected. Each smile makeover process is planned with your oral health, lifestyle, and preferences in mind, so recommendations are appropriate and realistically suited to your needs.
How Is Smile Makeover Suitability Assessed at Every Age?
A smile makeover assessment is carried out during a comprehensive dental consultation. The dentist examines your oral health, discusses your cosmetic and functional goals, and considers how proposed treatments may influence long‑term comfort. While age can guide the approach, every treatment plan is based on your dental health, lifestyle, and expectations.
Young Adults (Late Teens to 30s)
Assessments for this age group focus on confirming dental maturity and healthy teeth before cosmetic options are considered. The dentist may check:
- Facial growth completion:
Jaw and facial bone development is reviewed to confirm growth is complete, as orthodontic or restorative treatments performed too early may shift over time. This timing helps results remain more predictable. If growth is still occurring, certain treatments may be postponed. - Oral hygiene:
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleans are discussed to keep gums and teeth in good condition for cosmetic procedures. Poor hygiene can lead to gum inflammation or decay, which may compromise treatment results. Improvements may be recommended before moving forward. - General dental health:
The dentist looks for decay, gum disease, or enamel defects that may affect healing or the durability of cosmetic work. Addressing these concerns beforehand reduces the risk of complications and helps build a healthy foundation for aesthetic changes.
Adults in Their 30s to 50s
For this age range, assessments look at oral health and the durability of previous dental work. Key areas of focus are:
- Tooth wear:
Surfaces are examined for erosion, cracks, or thinning enamel, as these issues can weaken teeth and influence treatment choice. Strengthening or rebuilding worn teeth before cosmetic enhancements can improve both function and appearance. - Bite alignment:
The way teeth meet is reviewed to assess whether planned work is likely to function comfortably during eating and speaking. If there are significantly misaligned teeth, adjustments to the bite may be advised before cosmetic dental treatments. - Older restorations:
Fillings, crowns, or veneers are checked for deterioration, looseness, or colour mismatch. Damaged or outdated restorations may be replaced to improve function and achieve a consistent result. - Signs of grinding:
Evidence of bruxism is recorded, as grinding can cause chipping or early wear of cosmetic restorations. A custom night guard may be suggested to protect new dental work and help preserve your dream smile. - Lifestyle factors:
Smoking, high sugar intake, or frequent acidic drinks can stain teeth or erode enamel. Adjusting these habits may help cosmetic results last longer and improve overall oral health.
Mature Adults (60+)
At this stage, smile makeover suitability assessments focus on stability, health, and any medical considerations that may influence treatment planning. The dentist will review:
- Medical history:
Health conditions and medications are considered to identify factors that may affect healing or treatment suitability. If necessary, the dentist may seek additional medical information to guide safe planning. - Previous dental work:
Crowns, bridges, or implants are examined for strength, stability, and function to decide whether they can remain in place or need replacement. Well‑maintained restorations may be incorporated into the new plan, while damaged ones can be updated. - Gum and bone health:
The gums are checked for signs of disease, and bone levels are assessed through examination or imaging. Adequate gum and bone health helps with the stability of restorations and implants. - Restoration stability:
The condition of existing dental work is assessed to determine how well it will work with new treatments. Loose or damaged restorations are usually addressed before cosmetic improvements begin.
What Dental Treatments Are Included in a Smile Makeover?
No two smile makeovers are the same. Treatment recommendations are based on a patient’s clinical needs, aesthetic goals, and overall oral health. Each plan is tailored to suit the individual rather than following a set sequence.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can help reduce surface stains or general discolouration, but its suitability varies for each patient. When considering whitening as a smile makeover treatment, the dentist may review:
- Type of staining:
External stains from coffee, tea, wine, or smoking often respond more predictably than internal discolouration caused by medications, fluorosis, or trauma. Internal stains may require different approaches, such as veneers or bonding, to achieve the desired result. The dentist will first determine the type and cause of discolouration before recommending a treatment path. This step helps increase the likelihood of achieving an even and natural‑looking outcome. - Condition of the enamel:
Thin, cracked, or sensitive enamel may limit whitening choices, as some products can cause discomfort or increase tooth wear. Where this is the case, the dentist may suggest gentler whitening systems or cosmetic options that do not rely on bleaching agents. Protecting the enamel is important for long‑term tooth health. Selecting a method that matches the enamel’s condition can help reduce the chance of sensitivity. - Previous dental work:
Crowns, fillings, or veneers will not change colour with whitening, which can lead to uneven results if they are visible when smiling. If a noticeable colour mismatch is likely, the dentist may recommend replacing or adjusting these restorations after whitening. This planning step can help the final smile appear more consistent in shade. Coordinating whitening with restoration replacement can also improve the overall cosmetic effect.
Porcelain or composite veneers are thin coverings bonded to the front of teeth to enhance shape, colour, or alignment. Assessment often focuses on:
- Enamel thickness and strength:
Adequate enamel is important for secure bonding and a predictable lifespan for veneers. If the enamel is too thin or damaged, other treatments, such as crowns or bonding, may be recommended. This approach helps maintain the tooth’s natural integrity during preparation. Preserving as much natural tooth as possible can support both function and appearance. - Bite and tooth position:
Teeth that meet heavily or have misaligned contact points can put excessive stress on veneers, leading to chips or cracks over time. Adjusting the bite or alignment beforehand can help veneers last longer and function well. This preparatory step can also make them feel more comfortable in daily use. The dentist will review how bite forces interact with proposed veneers as part of planning. - Oral hygiene habits:
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleans reduce the risk of decay or gum issues around composite or porcelain veneers. Poor hygiene can shorten their lifespan and affect their appearance. Good cleaning habits help maintain the smooth surface and bright colour of veneers. Patients who follow a consistent care routine often enjoy more predictable results over time.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding uses a tooth‑coloured resin to improve tooth shape, address chips, or close small gaps. When planning bonding, dentists may consider:
- Extent of the change:
Bonding is generally suited to smaller cosmetic improvements. For significant structural changes or where more durability is needed, veneers or crowns may be suggested. Choosing the right treatment helps balance appearance, function, and longevity. The dentist will assess the size and location of the concern before recommending bonding. - Enamel condition:
Healthy enamel gives the bonding material a stable surface for strong adhesion. If enamel is weakened or worn, the bond may not last as long, and alternative treatments might be suggested. Strengthening the tooth beforehand can improve the predictability of the result. This step can also help reduce the likelihood of chipping or debonding. - Bite pattern:
Heavy biting forces or grinding can cause bonded areas to wear or chip. If these issues are detected, a protective night guard may be recommended. This can reduce pressure on the affected tooth and help preserve the restoration. Managing bite forces in this way can contribute to longer‑lasting bonding.
Dental Crowns
A crown covers and protects a tooth that is weakened, worn, or heavily restored. Key suitability checks include the following:
- Remaining tooth structure:
There needs to be sufficient natural tooth structure to hold the crown securely. If too much structure is missing, the dentist may rebuild the tooth with a core filling before crown placement. This provides a stable base for the new restoration, allowing the crown to handle biting forces more effectively. - Functional demands:
Molars that bear heavy chewing forces may benefit from stronger crown materials, such as zirconia or metal‑ceramic blends. On the other hand, front teeth may be restored with all‑ceramic crowns for a more natural look. The choice of material is tailored to both functional and aesthetic needs and is discussed during the planning phase. - Previous treatment history:
Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy or have large existing fillings may need specific crown designs for added strength. The dentist takes the tooth’s history into account when selecting the design. This planning step can help reduce the risk of future complications and also contribute to a more comfortable final fit.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to neighbouring teeth. When planning a bridge, dentists may review:
- Condition of support teeth:
The teeth used to hold the bridge need to be healthy and strong enough to manage extra biting forces. If these teeth are weakened, treatments to improve their condition may be completed before the bridge is placed. This approach can help the bridge remain secure over time. A stable foundation also improves comfort when chewing. - Gum health:
Healthy gums help maintain the fit and comfort of the bridge. Gum disease or inflammation can interfere with stability, so these issues are addressed before the bridge is made. Managing gum concerns first can also help extend the functional life of the bridge, contributing to overall oral health. - Bite alignment:
The way upper and lower teeth meet can influence how well the bridge functions. Poor alignment may lead to uneven pressure, causing wear or strain. Adjustments can be made to distribute forces more evenly. This can help the bridge perform comfortably during daily use.
Dental implants replace missing teeth with a titanium post placed in the jawbone, topped with a crown or bridge. Suitability depends on:
- Bone density and volume:
Adequate bone levels are often important for implant stability. If bone loss is present, grafting procedures may be considered to make treatment possible. This provides a stable foundation for placing the implant. Bone preparation can also help with the long‑term function of the restoration. - Gum health:
Healthy gum tissue lowers the risk of infection and can aid in healing after surgery. Any gum disease is addressed before implant placement to reduce complications. This preparation stage may improve comfort during recovery. Maintaining gum health afterwards is also important for implant stability. - Overall health and healing ability:
Certain medications or medical conditions (like uncontrolled diabetes) can affect healing. A thorough health review is carried out before treatment to guide the approach. Timing or method may be adjusted to suit the patient’s needs, making the procedure more compatible with their overall health. - Commitment to maintenance:
Implants require thorough daily cleaning and regular dental reviews. Without ongoing care, there is a higher risk of gum inflammation or bone changes around the implant. A maintenance plan is discussed before treatment begins, helping to maintain the implant’s condition over time.
Braces or Clear Aligners
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can address alignment, bite, and spacing issues, often forming the foundation for other cosmetic procedures. Dentists evaluate:
- Bite function and jaw position:
A functional bite can help protect both natural teeth and any cosmetic work completed afterwards. Orthodontics may address alignment issues that could otherwise cause uneven wear. Making these changes first can create a better base for further treatments. This stage can also improve chewing comfort. - Crowding or spacing:
The severity of misalignment affects whether braces or clear aligners are recommended and how long treatment will take. Milder spacing issues may be addressed with clear aligners, while more complex cases may require braces. Improving alignment can also make teeth easier to clean, promoting gum and tooth health. - Treatment sequencing:
Orthodontics is often completed before veneers, whitening, or bonding. This sequencing can make cosmetic results more predictable. Planning the order of treatments may also help avoid adjustments later. A coordinated approach can contribute to a balanced outcome.
Creating a Beautiful Smile: What Else Influences Treatment Planning?
Designing a smile makeover involves more than simply choosing treatments based on age. Every patient has unique needs, preferences, and circumstances that influence the suitable approach. Dentists consider a range of factors to create a plan that is both clinically sound and personally meaningful. They recognise that a beautiful smile means something different to everyone.
Below are some of the main considerations that may guide smile makeover planning:
- Oral hygiene:
Consistent daily care, including thorough brushing, flossing, and routine professional cleans, helps maintain gum health, prevent decay, and protect dental work. A healthy mouth creates a strong foundation for restorative and cosmetic dentistry treatments to perform well over time. - Lifestyle habits:
Your lifestyle habits, such as dietary choices, smoking, alcohol consumption, and teeth grinding or clenching, can affect treatment selection. They can also influence how treatments function and their ongoing care requirements. Making adjustments to these habits may improve how well treatments perform and remain in good condition over time. - Budget:
Smile makeover costs can vary based on the complexity, number, and type of treatments. Dentists can work with patients to prioritise certain smile makeover procedures or plan treatments in stages to align with financial preferences. - Long‑term goals:
A patient’s long‑term goals often shape the pace and sequence of treatment. Some may prefer a gradual approach over several years, while others aim for noticeable changes before a wedding, reunion, or milestone birthday. - Existing dental conditions:
Conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, or bite irregularities may require treatment before starting cosmetic work. Addressing these first helps reduce potential complications and promotes a healthy smile that continues beyond your smile makeover journey.
What to Expect During a Dental Consultation
A dental consultation for a smile makeover is a thorough and personalised process. The aim is to understand your oral health, functional needs, and cosmetic goals so the dentist can create a treatment plan tailored to you. Suitability is determined by the condition of your teeth, gums, and supporting structures, along with your long‑term outlook—not age alone.
During your consultation, you can expect several key steps designed to provide a complete picture of your dental health and treatment possibilities:
- Clinical examination:
The dentist assesses the health of your teeth, gums, and bite. They will look for signs of decay, gum disease, wear, or misalignment that could affect treatment planning. This step helps identify any conditions that should be addressed before cosmetic work begins. - X‑rays or digital scans:
Imaging may be recommended to see beneath the surface and gain a clear picture of bone levels, root health, and existing restorations. These tools help detect issues not visible during a standard examination and play an important role in accurate smile design planning. - Personalised discussion:
You’ll have the opportunity to share your goals, preferences, and any concerns. The dentist will explain possible treatment options, the expected sequence of care, and how each choice aligns with your oral health. This collaborative conversation helps the plan align with both your needs and your vision for your smile.
Final Thoughts
A smile makeover can be tailored to patients at any stage of life. While age may guide certain aspects of treatment planning, a more important factor is a thorough clinical assessment of oral health and functional needs. This approach helps tailor each plan to the patient’s specific circumstances. From young adults to older patients, the process focuses on creating results that are both achievable and appropriate.
Smile makeover suitability is determined by more than just appearance goals. Dentists consider oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, medical history, and existing dental conditions when recommending treatment options. This balanced evaluation helps identify which procedures will provide both aesthetic benefits and functional value. By addressing any underlying issues first, the final result is built on a healthy foundation.
If you are considering improving your smile, South Perth Dental Surgery can guide you through every stage of the process. Our team will take the time to understand your goals, assess your oral health, and explain all available options. Together, we can design a personalised treatment plan that fits both your needs and preferences. Contact us today to arrange a consultation and find out which treatments may be suitable for your smile.
