Cosmetic Dentistry & Smile Makeovers
A smile that looks like you, only at your best.
A smile makeover combines the right treatments, in the right order, to improve color, shape and alignment while keeping as much natural tooth as possible.
What is cosmetic dentistry & smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a personalized plan that may combine whitening, bonding, veneers, aligners, contouring or crowns to improve how your smile looks. It addresses color, shape, size, spacing and symmetry. Because it's built around your face, lips and bite, no two plans are alike. Its main limitation: cosmetic work can't fix untreated decay or gum disease, so those come first.
Who is a candidate?
Often a good fit
- Discolored, worn or uneven teeth
- Gaps, chips or small crowding
- Old fillings or crowns that no longer match
- People preparing for a big life event who want a lasting result
Needs extra care or planning
- Active decay or gum disease (treated first)
- Heavy grinding without a nightguard
- Unrealistic expectations of 'perfect' white teeth
- Uncontrolled health conditions that affect healing
When an exam is needed: A full exam, photos, X-rays and a digital scan are needed so we can plan around your bite and gum health, not just the front of your teeth.
Problems it can address
Limitations: A makeover improves appearance and can protect worn teeth, but it doesn't replace good home care, and porcelain or bonding will need upkeep over the years.
Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- One coordinated plan instead of piecemeal fixes
- You preview the result before committing
- Often boosts confidence noticeably
- Can be staged over time to fit your budget
Disadvantages
- Can involve several visits
- Some options remove a little enamel
The treatment process
- 1
Smile consultation
We talk about what you'd like to change and review photos, scans and X-rays.
- 2
Digital design
A virtual smile simulation shows the proposed result on your own face.
- 3
Trial mockup
When appropriate, a temporary mockup lets you 'test drive' the new shape.
- 4
Treatment
Treatments are done in a logical order, most conservative first.
- 5
Finishing & protection
Final polish, bite check and, if needed, a nightguard to protect your investment.
Timeline: Simple makeovers can be done in 2–3 visits over a few weeks; combined aligner and veneer plans can take several months.
Recovery and aftercare
What to expect
Discomfort: Usually minimal; some temporary sensitivity after whitening or veneer preparation.
Downtime: Little to none. Most people return to work the same day.
Aftercare
- Brush twice daily and floss
- Wear a nightguard if prescribed
- Limit staining drinks in the first 48 hours after whitening
- Keep regular cleanings
Call us right away if you notice
- A restoration feels loose or sharp
- Your bite feels uneven
- Sensitivity that gets worse over time
Longevity and outcomes
With good care, most makeover results last 10–15 years or more; whitening needs touch-ups.
What affects your result
- Materials chosen
- Grinding and clenching
- Home care and checkups
- Diet and staining habits
Possible complications
- Chipping of bonding or porcelain
- Staining at margins
- Gum recession exposing edges
- Need for future replacement
Cost and payment options
Cost depends entirely on which treatments your plan includes. You'll get an itemized written quote, with phasing options, before anything begins.
What affects the price
- Number of teeth treated
- Materials (bonding vs porcelain)
- Whether aligners are needed first
- Insurance and financing options
Insurance & financing
We accept most PPO plans and offer financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and others.
Comparison with alternatives
Whitening only
For healthy, well-shaped teeth that are simply discolored.
Bonding
A no-drill way to fix small chips and gaps.
Invisalign
Straightens teeth without changing their surface.
Doing nothing
Always an option for purely cosmetic concerns.
Clinical case examples
Real, patient-authorized cases for this treatment are being added soon, with diagnosis, reasoning and results.
View our Before & After Gallery →Why choose Neo Dental?
Patient reviews
Read what our patients say, in their own words, on independent review sites.
Frequently asked questions
What is a smile makeover?+
A custom plan that combines cosmetic treatments to improve your smile's look as a whole.
Can I see the result first?+
Yes. We use digital design and, when helpful, a temporary mockup in your mouth.
Will my teeth be shaved down?+
Only if truly needed. Many plans use whitening, bonding or no-prep options.
How long does it take?+
From a few weeks to several months, depending on the treatments included.
Does insurance cover it?+
Usually not for purely cosmetic work, but parts that restore damaged teeth may be covered.
Can it be done in stages?+
Yes. Many patients phase treatment over time.
Your care team & booking
Dr. Sol Shahri
Dr. Sol Shahri is recognized as the best dentist in Beverly Hills for cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers, named Best Cosmetic Dentist in Los Angeles by RankMyDentist (2026). He personally designs and leads every smile makeover at Neo Dental, combining artistry with a conservative, tooth-preserving approach. This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Sol Shahri.
Meet the team →Related treatments
Not sure if you need cosmetic dentistry & smile makeovers?
Book an exam and we'll explain every option, including the most conservative one.
Book your visit