If you came here looking for a full mouth reconstruction, Facial Rejuvenation, Bite Correction, Smile Makeover, and Cosmetic Dentistry with ceramic restorations like Lumineers, Emax, and BruxZir restorations, YES WE CAN DO IT!

For over 25 years, our Santa Monica Dental Office has built its reputation on the quality of our dental work exceeding our high level patient expectations in a uniquely pleasant and painless dental environment. Dr Richard Haber has the cosmetic background and experience to handle a large dental smile makeover, one of the most difficult dental procedures.

SMILE MAKEOVER - FACIAL REJUVENATION - BITE CORRECTION
(A smile makeover is a big decision that is not to be taken lightly)

Treated Problems and Benefits

Our teeth support our muscles and skin. Worn teeth, missing teeth, bad teeth, misaligned teeth, overbites and bad bites can be the reasons for mid-face problems. Our teeth can be worn down due to normal aging or due to sleep clenching and grinding known also as bruxism in which patients grind their teeth at night. Left untreated, the teeth become shorter, causing the lower jaw to retract back to meet the upper teeth causing Neuromuscular, TMJ, and neck problems.

Bad teeth, missing teeth, and worn teeth result in a collapsed bite, an overbite, a sucked in and collapsed appearance around the mouth, wrinkles. Worn teeth, overbites and bad bites can make the entire face age.

Smile Makeover, require correcting the bite, rebuilding and replacing the bad, missing, and worn teeth on the upper and the lower arches.
Smile Makeover, involve the replacements of the old fillings by ceramic restorations: Porcelain, Emax, or Zirconia Restorations (Lumineers , Emax , BruxZir, etc...) to restore the lost shape, size, and position of the teeth.

Opening the bite and restoring the jaw into its ideal centric position help to strengthen the muscles and results in a beautiful face and a beautiful Smile!
When a dentist open the collapsed bite, restore the jaw into its ideal centric position, and rebuild the lost height of the teeth, the facial structure starts to improve and the patient problems are reduced or eliminated due to rebuilding the vertical dimension of occlusion.

The new centric jaw position help with the reduction in migraine headaches, neck aches and shoulder pains. When opening the bite, the new centric jaw position, and the bite corrections are achieved, this helps with the correction of many Neuromuscular problems, TMJ problems, jaw pain, jaw clicking, jaw popping, clenching, and grinding.
 Bite Jaw Splint 

When restoring the jaw and the bite, the Smile Makeover is obtained by widening the arches that were collapsed.
Smile Makeover benefits are having a corrected bite, corrected misaligned teeth, a beautiful face, and a beautiful smile without surgery.

Cosmetic dentistry can be achieved by bleaching your teeth and placing either 4, or 8, or 10 veneers on your teeth, and now you can have a better smile. If a smile makeover, facial rejuvenation, and full mouth reconstruction are needed, teeth on the upper and the lower arches may need to be treated in order to correct the bite. The cost of this treatment may be higher.

 

BITE CORRECTION

Opening the bite will create more than enough space to place the ceramic restorations on the teeth with minimal to no drilling of the teeth.
Opening the bite and restoring the jaw into its centric position has been around for some time now and has been provided and marketed by dentists under many different names: Non Surgical Facial Rejuvenation, Smile Rejuvenation, Anti-Aging Dentistry, Look Years Younger, Hollywood Smile, Facial Profile Correction, Jaw and Bite Correction, Non Surgical Jaw Correction, Overbite and Underbite Correction, Biofunctional and Neuromuscular Dentistry, TMJ treatment, ...etc....

 

CERAMIC RESTORATIONS   

Porcelain, Emax, or Zirconia

Lumineers , Emax , or BruxZir

 

The ceramic material used to restore the teeth, Porcelain, Emax, or Zirconia, has been around for some time and it has been marketed under many different names.
Anterior and posterior etched ceramic restorations that require no to minimal tooth reduction, are used to restore the teeth: Lumineers , Emax , BruxZir, etc...
These ceramic restorations could be made of zirconia for posterior and anterior teeth, porcelain or emax for anterior teeth, or a combination of both, or what is best for your specific needs. It is not "a one size fits all" product.

Zirconia restorations

Zirconia restorations are much stronger than regular porcelain veneers.
Zirconia is a crystalline dioxide of zirconium that is the strongest ceramic in the dental market today.
Zirconia restorations require no to minimal tooth preparation.
Zirconia restorations can be used in areas with limited bite space as they offer high resistance to chipping and breaking. If you suffer from bruxism, restorations made of zirconia might be the best choice for you.
BruxZir Solid Zirconia, by Glidewell Lab, is one of many examples of zirconia restorations. If a bite need to be restored, regular BruxZir Solid Zirconia will be used on the posterior teeth, and BruxZir Anterior Solid Zirconia will be used on the anterior teeth

Emax restorations

Emax restorations are much stronger than regular porcelain veneers.
Emax restorations require no to minimal tooth reduction.
Emax restorations, in general, provide a better esthetic results on the anterior teeth, and the new Emax have enough strength to withstand all the chewing forces, for those reasons, sometimes a combination of both Emax (on the anterior teeth) and BruxZir Solid Zirconia (on the posterior teeth) will be a better solution than regular porcelain veneers to restore the bite.

Porcelain Restorations

Porcelain Restorations, when placed on the anterior teeth, offer better and higher esthetics, more transparent and natural looking incisal edges.
NO PREP VENEERS
There are actually several different types of veneers available. No prep veneers, Lumineers, Emax Veneers, Empress Veneers...
Again, it is not "a one size fits all" product. All depends on what is best for your cosmetic specific needs.

 

If you are interested in finding out more, please contact us today for a personal consultation. Tel 3103937766    

 

INLAYS RESTORATIONS - ONLAYS RESTORATIONS - VENEERS

Most of the ceramic restorations are etched then bonded to the teeth with minimal to no tooth reduction as space for the ceramic was created by opening the bite
These ceramic restorations have different shapes depending on the tooth structure and the surface of the tooth that need to be replaced or restored
Depending on the surface of the tooth that need to be restored, and the material used, these ceramic restorations have been marketed by dentists, dental labs, and dental manufacturer under many different names too.

INLAYS RESTORATIONS

Inlay Restoration can be made of porcelain, Emax, zirconia, or composites. Inlay is usually an indirect restoration (filling) consisting of a solid substance fitted to a cavity in a tooth and cemented into place.

ONLAYS RESTORATIONS

Onlay Restoration covers the chewing (occlusal) surface of the tooth. It can be made of porcelain, Emax, zirconia, or composites. Onlay works like an inlay but covers one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of the tooth. Onlays are one of the expensive option, but the beautiful effect they can have on a person's smile makes them well worth the investment.

VENEERS RESTORATIONS

Veneers cover the external outer (facial/buccal) surface of the tooth or sometimes more to allow for a better bonded final cosmetic result. Veneers can be made of porcelain, Emax, zirconia, or composites. Emax or Zirconia veneers are usually the most expensive option, but again the beautiful effect they can have on a person's smile makes them well worth the investment. Composite Veneers are less expensive than the porcelain veneers. Composite veneers cost about half as much as porcelain veneers and can be completed in one day.

Many times, a combination of these shapes are used to provide a better looking final restoration.

For example, a combination of a veneer and an onlay restoration will have an "L" shape that covers the chewing (occlusal) surface of the tooth combined with the coverage of the external outer (facial/buccal) surface of the tooth. This combination of a veneer and an onlay restoration is a very precise restoration but when well executed, it offers an extreme esthetic and conservative outcome. Preserving the enamel on the chewing surface of the tooth allows for a better bonding of the final restoration.

After having bite corrections and smile makeover completed, our patients often experience stronger teeth and more properly aligned smile, younger looking faces and better profiles, less joint and neck pain caused by TMJ disorders, less Neuromuscular problems, and breath better at night!

Disclaimer: The information throughout this website is not intended to be taken as a medical advice. It is intended to provide general information regarding Smile Makeover, full mouth reconstruction, full mouth rehabilitation, porcelain, emax, and zirconia restorations, veneers, and more.

If you are interested in finding out more, please contact us today for a personal consultation. Tel 3103937766    

We accept most types of PPO dental insurance plans. We do not accept any HMO Dental Plan.

 

Cosmetic Dentistry History

Cosmetic Dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the functionality) of teeth, gums and/or bite. It primarily focuses on improvement in dental aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance.^[1] Many dentists refer to themselves as "cosmetic dentists" regardless of their specific education, specialty, training, and experience in this field. This has been considered unethical with a predominant objective of marketing to patients.^[2] The American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a formal specialty area of dentistry.^[3] However, there are still dentists that promote themselves as cosmetic dentists.

Cosmetic dentistry may involve:

1. The addition of a dental material to teeth or gums - examples: bonding, porcelain veneers (laminates), crowns (caps), gum grafts
2. The removal of tooth structure or gums - examples: enameloplasty, gingivectomy
3. Neither adding nor removing dental materials, tooth structure, or gums - examples: teeth whitening (bleaching), laser whitening, gum depigmentation
4. Straightening of teeth accompanied by improvement in appearance of face^[6] - orthodontics
5. Veneers, dental laminates - conservative
6. Scaling

Whitening, or "tooth bleaching", is the most common cosmetic dental procedure. Whitening is a safe process that is effective for most patients. Multiple whitening options are available, including over the counter products such as Crest Whitestrips, as well as dentist-supervised methods such as in-office treatments or at-home treatments involving trays with a peroxide gel.

Laser whitening is a teeth whitening technique in which gums are covered with a rubber dam and a bleaching chemical is applied on the teeth. A beam of argon laser, which is intended to accelerate the process of bleaching, is then projected upon the teeth. This laser activates the bleaching chemical and lightens the teeth color.^[7] Laser whitening is said to be six times more effective in teeth whitening compared to other procedures.

Tooth reshaping removes parts of the enamel to improve the appearance of the tooth. It may be used to correct a small chip, or to alter the length, shape or position of teeth, as well as when there is tooth size discrepancy;^[8][9] it can be used to correct crooked or excessively long teeth. The removed enamel is irreplaceable, and may sometimes expose dentin. It is also known as enameloplasty, odontoplasty, contouring, recontouring, cosmetic contouring, slenderizing, stripping. This procedure offers fast results and can even be a substitute for braces under certain circumstances.^[10]

Bonding is a process in which an enamel-like dental composite material is color matched, applied to a tooth's surface, sculpted into proper tooth contour, hardened and then polished. This process utilizes dental adhesives, which are solutions of resin monomers that make the resin dental substrate interaction possible. They are mainly classified into two techniques: self-etch or etch-and-rinse.^[11] An examples of a bonded restorations are inlays and onlays, which are used to repair decayed & cracked teeth. Teeth damaged by small to moderate decay, erosion, or small fractures can be repaired with direct composite restorations bonded to the teeth. Aesthetics are especially critical in anterior composite restorations.

Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Teeth on both sides of the space left by the missing teeth are prepared.^[12] A bridge is made up of abutments, the teeth that are prepped, and the missing, false teeth, which are called pontics.^[13] This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth and is cemented in. Bridges can consist of more than three teeth in total and the viability of any bridge is usually determined by applying Ante's Law and assessing where in the mouth the teeth are. Most bridges are fixed, they can not be removed. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out in the same way that partial dentures can. In areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth, a cantilever bridge may be used. Cantilever bridges or Maryland Bridges are used to replace anterior or front missing teeth, are minimally invasive but do have a reputation for failure.^[14] Bridges require commitment to serious oral hygiene and carry risk.^[15] The average life of bridges is similar to that of crowns which is nearly ten years.^[16]

 

Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made porcelain laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth. They are an option for closing gaps, enhance the shape, or change the color of teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures. In the majority of the cases, some level of tooth reduction is necessary for optimal results. To achieve a pleasing smile, dentists fabricate diagnostic mock-ups, which act as a tooth preparation guide before the fabrication of veneers,^[17] it allows the dentist to visualize the changes needed to be done on the patient's teeth with respect to size, shape and proportion, its relation with gingival-contour, lip contour and smile line.^[18] Mock ups can be a great aid in fabricating pre-evaluation temporaries, which can give a preliminary evaluation to the esthetics, phonetics and teeth occlusion, in addition, it gives an opportunity to the clinicians to check if they need to do any corrections.

Dental implants are prosthetic replacements for missing teeth. According to ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists) there are commonly three parts to what it is described as an implant: the implant device which is predominantly made of titanium (which is inserted into the bone), the abutment, and a dental crown or a denture which are connected to the implant through the abutment.

A gum lift is a cosmetic dental procedure that raises and sculpts the gum line. The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer or more symmetrical teeth.^[19]

Metal braces are used primarily to correct crowded or misaligned teeth. While correcting issues such as jaw alignment are the primary purpose, they can also improve aesthetics.^[20]

Clear aligners are used as an alternative to traditional metal braces. Clear aligners produce comparable results to metal braces and are preferred by some patients as they are less noticeable to others than traditional braces.^[20]

Bite reclamation , Bite Correction, is for patients who have had years of excessive wear to their teeth due to grinding or acid reflux can alter their vertical dimension. This gives them a closed or shorter look to their face and smile. By opening up their bite, a qualified professional can reclaim their vertical dimension.

In the past, dental fillings and other tooth restorations were made of gold, amalgam and other metals - some of which were veneered with porcelain.^{[citation needed]} Now, dental work can be made entirely of porcelain or composite materials that more closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth structure. These tooth-colored materials are bonded to the underlying tooth structure with resin adhesives. Unlike silver fillings (amalgams) they are entirely free of mercury. Cosmetic dentistry has evolved to cover many new procedures and new dental materials are constantly introduced.

The American Dental Association does not recognize cosmetic dentistry as a specialty.^[21] Prosthodontics is the only dental specialty under which the concentration of cosmetic/esthetic dentistry falls. General dentists may perform some simple cosmetic procedures. Consequently, there are questions regarding whether it is ethical for general dentists to treat "smile makeovers" or complex cosmetic and full-mouth reconstruction cases, as they are not qualified to address the complex needs of the patient.^[21][22]

The American College of Prosthodontists is a not-for-profit organization representing prosthodontists within organized dentistry and to the public, with more than 3,700 members worldwide. Prosthodontics is one of the twelve dental specialties defined by the American Dental Association, which recognizes the American College of Prosthodontists as the national organization representing the prosthodontic specialty- the dental specialty of cosmetic / esthetic dentistry, implant dentistry and reconstructive dentistry.

Membership is open to individuals who have graduated from or are currently enrolled in an ADA-accredited advanced prosthodontics program. The ACP is the only prosthodontic specialty association where membership is based solely on education credentials. Certified dental laboratory technician and members of the prosthodontic academic community may become Alliance members of the college.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is the largest international dental organization in the world, composed of general dentists, specialists, and lab technicians focused on the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. Founded in 1984, the AACD has over 7,000 members in the United States and more than 70 countries around the globe. Members of the academy include dentists, dental laboratory technicians, educators, researchers, students, hygienists, corporations and dental auxiliaries. AACD members seek out continuing education through lectures, workshops, and publications in order to keep up-to-date with all of the advancements in cosmetic dental techniques and technology. In 1984, the AACD was formed and has filled the dire need for credentialing in cosmetic dentistry. The purpose of the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry (ABCD) is the testing, analyzing, and evaluation of the services of dentists and laboratory technicians for the purpose of awarding AACD Accreditation in cosmetic dentistry.^[23] However, this certification is not approved or recognized by the American Dental Association.

American Society For Dental Aesthetics: Conceived in 1976, the American Society for Dental Aesthetics was developed with a single purpose in mind: continuing dental education to teach dental health professionals the most advanced aesthetic and restorative techniques available. To become a member of the ASDA, a dentist must show a minimum of five years in dental practice, or postgraduate training of two years in an approved program; attendance to at least two ASDA sponsored continuing dental education seminars; nomination by a member accompanied by two letters of recommendation by Society members; presentation of five (5) cases illustrating the concepts of aesthetic dentistry.^[24]

 

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

 

Cosmetic dentistry awards in the USA and internationally, here's a historical breakdown of prominent awards and recognition in the field:

United States

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) Evy Awards: Often called the "Oscars of Dentistry," these awards recognize AACD members or Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry authors who have made a significant impact on the dental industry. Categories include:
  • Humanitarian Award: For outstanding contributions to charitable causes.
  • jCD Award: For the best original article published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry.
  • Dr. Nathaniel D. Hill Rising Star Award: For emerging leaders in cosmetic dentistry.
  • Excellence in Cosmetic Dentistry Education Award: For advancing the art and science of cosmetic dentistry through education.
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: For significant, long-standing contributions to the field.
  • Outstanding Service to the Academy Award: For exceptional service to the AACD.
• AACD Smile Gallery Competition (Past): Although the official competition concluded in 2007, the AACD still showcases members' clinical skills through the Smile Gallery. Past awards were given in categories based on technical skill in cosmetic dentistry.
• American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) Awards: While focused on implant dentistry, some awards recognize the esthetic aspects of implant restorations:
  • International Dentist of the Year: Recognizes leadership in the international growth of the AAID and promotion of education.
• American Prosthodontic Society (APS) Awards: These awards often acknowledge the esthetic outcomes of prosthodontic treatments:
  • Golden Medallion Award: Recognizes exceptional contributions to prosthodontics.
  • Rudd Award: Presented to a dental technician or dentist for significant contributions to prosthodontics and dental laboratory communities.
• America's Best Dentists: This recognition highlights dentists with significant experience, continuing education, and positive reviews, often including those excelling in cosmetic procedures.
• "Top Dentist" Awards: Various regional publications (like Mpls/St. Paul magazine) often have peer-nominated "Top Dentist" lists that include cosmetic dentists.
• ADA Design Innovation Awards: While not solely focused on cosmetic dentistry, these awards by the American Dental Association recognize dental offices with excellent esthetic appeal, function, and design.
• Cosmetic Practice of the Year Awards: Some organizations or publications may present awards specifically recognizing outstanding cosmetic dental practices.

International

• The European Awards in Medicine: Recognizes excellence in various medical fields, including dentistry. DentSpa Clinic was named "Europe's Best Dental Clinic" in 2024.
• International Award of Excellence and British Healthcare Awards: This award recognized Dr. Arshad from India as the "Best Cosmetic Dentist from India" in 2023.
• Smile of the Year Awards (Europe): An annual competition based in Europe that celebrates dental excellence in various categories, with winners receiving trophies and certificates. It attracts participants from multiple countries.
• International Dentistry Award: Kreativ Dental in Hungary received the "International Dental Clinic of the Year - Europe" award in 2017.
• The European Awards: Dentakay received "The European Award 2022" in the Dentistry category.

It's important to note that the landscape of dental awards can change, and new awards may emerge while others may evolve or become less prominent. The AACD's Evy Awards and Smile Gallery (past) have historically been significant recognitions specifically within cosmetic dentistry.

 

Cosmetic dentistry awards in the USA and internationally, here's a historical breakdown of prominent awards and recognition in the field:

1. Smile of the Year Awards

Organized by Dental Tribune International, the Smile of the Year Awards is a prestigious European competition that celebrates outstanding achievements in aesthetic dentistry. The 18th edition is scheduled for May 16, 2025. The competition features 20 clinical categories, including:Dental Tribune USA

• Implant Restorations

• Ceramic Restorations

• Composite Restorations

• Complex Esthetic Restoration in Pediatric DentistrySMILE OF THE YEAR

Winners receive designer trophies, certificates of excellence, digital seals for promotional use, and material or educational prizes. The event garners international participation, with entries from countries such as France, Spain, and Bulgaria. SMILE OF THE YEAR

2. Euro Dentistry Best Poster & Keynote Speaker Awards

Presented at the Euro Dentistry Congress, these awards recognize exceptional scientific contributions in the field of dentistry. The Best Poster Award honors innovative research presented through visually compelling posters, while the Best Keynote Speaker Award acknowledges impactful presentations by leading professionals. eurodentistry.dentalcongress.com

3. Advanced Dentistry Conference Awards

At the Advanced Dentistry Conference, awards are given for outstanding research papers and poster presentations. These accolades highlight groundbreaking inquiries and significant contributions to dental science, fostering collaboration and knowledge dissemination among professionals. longdom.com

4. Oral Health & Dentistry Awards by GHP

Global Health & Pharma (GHP) hosts the Oral Health & Dentistry Awards, recognizing leading practitioners and innovative companies in the dental industry. The awards celebrate advancements in technology, treatment options, and patient outcomes, contributing to the growth and evolution of the global dentistry market. GHP News+1oralhealth.alliedacademies.com+1

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 5. Pierre Fauchard Academy Fellowship

Named after the French pioneer of modern dentistry, the Pierre Fauchard Academy is an international organization that honors outstanding dentists worldwide. Fellowship is awarded to individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership, integrity, and contributions to the profession. The academy includes members from France and promotes excellence in dental practice globally. Wikipedia

6. American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA) Membership

The ASDA is an international nonprofit organization aiming to enhance the quality of patient care in dental aesthetics. Membership is open to qualified professionals from various countries, including France, who meet specific criteria and demonstrate a commitment to advancing dental aesthetics. Wikipedia

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Newell Sill Jenkins (1840 - 1919) was an American dentist who practiced most of his life in Dresden, Germany.^[25] He developed the Jenkins porcelain enamel and improved, thus making a composition of the porcelain paste, porcelain inlays, dental crowns and bridges. Hence, he is regarded as the founder of aesthetic dentistry.