Smile Makeover After Braces
When orthodontics alone isn't enough—a holistic approach to complete smile transformation
Treatment Plan
- Lower braces removal
- Aesthetic crown lengthening and gum lift to establish proper tooth proportions
- Dental implants placed for missing lower molars (#19 and #30)
- Porcelain veneers on upper teeth (#4-13)
- Porcelain veneers on lower teeth (#20-29)
- Bite optimization and occlusal harmonization
When Braces Are Just the Beginning
This lovely patient came to us after finishing braces, but she remained unhappy with her smile. Orthodontics had aligned her teeth, yet she still didn't feel confident. This is more common than people realize—braces address position, but they can't change the shape, color, or proportions of teeth. And they certainly can't replace teeth that are missing.
Her case required a comprehensive approach. She had two missing lower molars that affected her bite and chewing function. Her gum line was uneven, making her teeth appear short and asymmetrical. And the teeth themselves, while now straight, weren't the shape or shade she envisioned for her smile.
"Straight teeth are just the foundation. A beautiful smile requires harmony between teeth, gums, and function."
The Holistic Approach
We created a comprehensive smile makeover plan that addressed every component of her smile. Rather than treating each issue in isolation, we coordinated all procedures to work together toward a unified aesthetic and functional result.
The Challenge
Transform a smile that had completed orthodontic treatment but still lacked the aesthetics and function the patient desired. Address missing teeth, uneven gum architecture, and tooth proportions while maintaining proper bite alignment.
Rebuilding the Foundation
The first step was placing dental implants for the two missing lower molars. These teeth—#19 and #30—are critical for proper chewing and maintaining bite stability. Without them, the remaining teeth can shift and the jaw joint can experience strain. The implants restored full function to her bite.
Next, we performed an aesthetic crown lengthening procedure—commonly called a gum lift. This reshaped her gum line to reveal more tooth structure and create symmetry across her smile. The gum lift established the proper framework for the veneers to follow.
Creating the Smile
With the foundation in place, we designed 20 porcelain veneers to complete her smile transformation:
- 10 upper veneers (#4-13) to reshape and brighten her upper arch
- 10 lower veneers (#20-29) to match and harmonize with the upper teeth
- Custom shade selection for a natural, youthful appearance
- Proportions designed to complement her facial features
Each veneer was individually crafted to work in harmony with its neighbors. The upper and lower arches were designed together to ensure proper bite relationship and aesthetic balance when she smiles.
The Result
Eight weeks from start to finish. Her smile makeover addressed everything her braces couldn't: the missing teeth are replaced with implants that function like natural teeth, the gum line is symmetrical and properly proportioned, and 20 custom veneers give her the beautiful, confident smile she always wanted.
This case illustrates why comprehensive treatment planning matters. Each procedure supported the others—the implants restored function, the gum lift created the framework, and the veneers delivered the aesthetics. Treating any one element in isolation wouldn't have achieved this result.
"A smile makeover isn't about a single procedure—it's about understanding how every element works together."
Frequently Asked Questions
Why wasn't I happy with my smile after braces?
Braces excel at moving teeth into proper alignment, but they can't change the inherent shape, size, color, or proportions of your teeth. Many patients find that even after orthodontic treatment, they still want improvements in aesthetics that only restorative dentistry can provide.
Why were dental implants included in a smile makeover?
Missing back teeth affect more than just chewing—they impact bite stability, jaw joint health, and can cause remaining teeth to shift over time. Replacing them with implants restored full function and provided a stable foundation for the cosmetic work.
What is crown lengthening or a gum lift?
Crown lengthening reshapes the gum tissue to reveal more of the tooth structure beneath. It's used to correct a "gummy smile," create symmetry in the gum line, or establish proper tooth proportions before placing veneers or crowns.
Why treat upper and lower teeth together?
The upper and lower teeth work together when you bite, chew, and smile. Treating them together ensures proper color matching, proportional harmony, and correct bite relationship. Treating only one arch often creates mismatches.
How long does a comprehensive smile makeover take?
This case was completed in 8 weeks. Timeline varies based on the specific procedures involved. Cases requiring implant healing may take longer, while veneer-only cases can be faster. We'll provide a detailed timeline during your consultation.
Dr. Kiyan Mehdizadeh, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine
Unlike corporate dental centers where you'll meet multiple providers, Dr. Mehdizadeh personally handles every aspect of your treatment journey—from initial consultation through final restoration. This continuity of care ensures exceptional results tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
With advanced training in implantology, bone grafting, and prosthodontics from institutions across Europe and the United States, Dr. Mehdizadeh brings a comprehensive perspective that corporate chains simply cannot match. His boutique Beverly Hills practice focuses on quality over quantity, treating each case with the attention and precision it deserves.
Education & Credentials
- Mastership in Implant Dentistry, Loma Linda University/gIDE Institute
- Advanced Implant Therapy and Grafting, UCLA/gIDE Institute
- Certificate in Guided Bone Regeneration & Ridge Augmentation, gIDE
- Certificate in Sinus Elevation and Augmentation, gIDE Institute
- Master Program in Fixed Prosthodontics, Fradeani Education, Italy
- Certificate in IV Sedation, University of Alabama, Birmingham
- Certificate in Periodontal Micro-surgery, Huerzelr/Zuhr, Munich
- Doctor of Dental Medicine, Boston University (Cum Laude)
Begin Your Transformation
Schedule your consultation to explore what's possible for your smile.