Smile Design
in New York City & Manhattan, NY

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What Is a Smile Design and How Can It Help Transform My Confidence?

If you feel embarrassed when you smile, it can be hard to be confident when you’re at your best. There are a lot of reasons that people dislike their smiles, like misaligned or missing teeth, chips, cracks, discoloration, and more. The good thing is that there are plenty of options available to address your concerns with the help of your dentist.

A smile design is a comprehensive, customized set of cosmetic treatments designed to transform the natural beauty of your smile and improve your dental health. It usually involves one or more restorative treatments designed to improve many different aspects of your smile over time. Effective smile design takes into account both your smile’s cosmetic appearance and its healthy function.

At New York General Dentistry, our smile design services are a collaborative effort between you and Dr. Chern. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that transforms your smile and makes sure you feel comfortable in your best moments. We’ll also ensure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and excited about the new you.

Dr. Chern is an outstanding dentist. I went to her a few months ago terrified of dental work and embarrassed by my oral health. After a few appointments where she walked me through each procedure and checked in with my thought, I am on my way to great Oral health and no longer nervous walking in the door. Thank you, Dr. Chern!

-Britney L

Types of Smile Design Treatments

Veneers

Veneers are a quick restoration solution for patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their smiles. Veneers are made from natural, tooth-colored ceramic materials like porcelain. They are attached to the front of your teeth to improve the shape, color, and overall appearance, and are virtually undetectable to other people. They usually last for many years with the right care.

Teeth Bleaching

Many people experience tooth staining over time which affects their confidence when smiling. These stains come from many different factors like foods, beverages, lifestyle choices, and aging. Professional whitening treatments are one of the best options for getting rid of stains and yellowness that come with regular wear on your teeth. This can be completed in our office in as little as 40-60 minutes.

White Spot Removal

White spots are a common occurrence on teeth, and some of the causes include dental fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia, and poor dental hygiene. They can form during normal tooth development or after certain orthodontic treatments. They often require some professional help since bleaching or whitening treatments can make them stand out even more. White spots can be removed at our office with non-invasive, safe, and painless techniques that preserve healthy tooth structure for a clear and uniform smile.

Real Results

New York Genral Dentistry is committed to providing the best in dental health care and meeting your unique needs. View our gallery of incredible results!

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Invisalign

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces and can gradually straighten your teeth over the course of six months using specially-designed trays fabricated for your mouth. You’ll change out your trays every few weeks to shift your teeth into position without the discomfort or embarrassment of traditional braces. The biggest benefit of Invisalign is that you can remove them for eating and brushing, but they’re otherwise undetectable.

Meet With Dr. Chern &
Her Manhattan Team

To learn more about White Spot Removal in Manhattan and your treatment options, contact our office for an appointment by calling or filling out our online form. Dr. Inna Chern and her team will personally work with you to plan your best treatment options and restore the function and beauty of your smile.

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The Smile Design Treatment Process and What to Expect

Your First Appointment (60-90 minutes)

  • Dr. Chern will get to know you and your smile improvement goals. We encourage patients to bring pictures of their ideal tooth design and color. We will discuss your dental health history and take some photographs to better visualize your smile and how your teeth relate to your face. This also helps you compare your before and after!
  • Dr. Chern will perform a comprehensive exam and check your TMJ, teeth, and gums for optimal health and function. 
  • Dr. Chern will discuss your treatment options for your specific goals at length and take any necessary impressions for lab collaboration.

Your Second Appointment (30-45 minutes)

  • You and Dr. Chern will inspect any models and photographs together and discuss what you’re hoping to achieve in more detail. 
  • Based on the discussion you have with Dr. Chern, the model will be approved or adjusted to your goals and your treatment options will be completed. A trial smile for more complex work is used to visualize the final product.

Your Final Appointment (30-45 minutes)

It’s now time to get started on your specific treatments. The process will be customized to fit your health, comfort levels, budget, and schedule. Smile design outcomes vary in duration but we are here to help at every step along the journey. Most importantly, our goal is to help you smile confidently again— we want you to love showing your smile to the world!

Caring For Your New Smile

Now that the journey is over, it’s extremely important to maintain your beautiful new smile! Depending on the types of treatments, your maintenance may be different. However, it’s important to follow a few core steps to make sure your teeth stay beautiful and functional for the long term:

  • Eat a healthy diet (with a moderate amount of sweets and soft drinks)
  • See your dentist regularly (every 4-6 months) for a hygiene appointment
  • Brush your teeth twice daily for 2 minutes with a soft or electric toothbrush
  • Floss every day or use a water flosser (Waterpik)
  • Always clean between the teeth and around the dental work

At what age do gums start to recede?

Gums can recede at any age if excess force and bacteria are present.

Can braces fix an uneven gum line?

Braces can fix uneven gum lines for some people if the cause of the unevenness is the teeth.

Can Cosmetic Dentistry fix receding gums?

If the source of receding gums is poor fitting cosmetic dentistry then replacing it can help but not reverse the process.

Can surgery fix receding gums?

Grafting procedures can fix recession to areas with good blood flow.

Can veneers fix receding gums?

Veneers can cover exposed tooth structure due to recession but it can give the tooth an unnaturally long appearance.

Do gums grow back after gum contouring?

It is possible for some gum tissue to grow back after non-surgical grafting. When this occurs, more extensive surgery is required.

Do gums grow back if cut?

Gum tissue can grow back, depending on the blood supply to the affected area.

How can I fix my gum line?

There are many non-invasive and surgical ways to alter your gemlike. It is best to discuss your concerns with your dentist or periodontist.

How can I get thicker gums?

Grafting procedures can improve the thickness of thin gum tissues in areas of the mouth.

How do you hide gum recession?

You can hide gum recession by placing gum grafts to the affected areas.

How is gum contouring done?

Gum contouring can be done with a laser or through surgical techniques.

How much gum recession is normal?

No amount of gum recession is normal. Recession is an indicator of periodontal disease.

Is gum contouring painful?

Gum contouring can be mild uncomfortable but is done under local anesthesia so a patient doesnt feel the procedure.

Is there an alternative to gum grafting?

There are no alternatives to gum grafting after the tissue has been lost due to recession.

What does a periodontist do for receding gums?

The periodontist can graft the missing tissue from several sources including patients tissue, synthetic grafts and cadaver grafts.

Why are my gums covering my teeth?

Gum tissue covers the cementum of teeth which is much more porous, sensitive and cavity prone.

How long will gum contouring results last?

For many patients, the results of the gum contouring procedure are permanent.

How long does gum contouring take?

The procedure usually takes one or two hours, depending on the amount of gum that needs to be contoured.

How do you care for your teeth and gums after gum contouring?

After the procedure, youll want to avoid spicy foods and foods with seeds, drink plenty of water, be careful with brushing and flossing, and apply ice packs to the area 15 minutes at a time.

What is gum contouring, and why might I need it?

Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure that reshapes the gum line to improve the appearance of your smile. It’s often done to correct a "gummy" smile or to even out uneven gum lines.

How long does the gum contouring procedure take?

The gum contouring procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the work needed. The duration may vary based on the number of teeth being treated.

What can I expect during the recovery period after gum contouring?

Recovery from gum contouring is generally quick, with most discomfort subsiding within a few days. Soft foods and gentle oral hygiene are recommended during the initial recovery period.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with gum contouring?

Risks and side effects of gum contouring are minimal but can include minor swelling, bleeding, or infection. Following your dentist's aftercare instructions can help minimize these risks.

Can gum contouring be combined with other dental procedures?

Yes, gum contouring is often combined with other dental procedures, such as veneers, crowns, or teeth whitening, to enhance overall smile aesthetics.

Will my insurance cover the cost of gum contouring?

Gum contouring is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it's often not covered by insurance. However, if it’s medically necessary, some insurance plans may offer partial coverage.

How long do the results of gum contouring last?

The results of gum contouring are typically permanent, as the excess gum tissue does not grow back. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help ensure long-lasting results.

What should I do to prepare for a gum contouring procedure?

To prepare for gum contouring, follow your dentist's instructions, which may include avoiding certain foods or medications before the procedure. Ensure you have soft foods available for the recovery period, and plan for someone to drive you home if sedation is used.

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What Makes Our Office the Right Fit for Your Dental Needs?

Personalized Care

We never take a one-size-fits-all approach to your oral health. Dr. Chern will evaluate your teeth and gums, working closely with our team to create a custom solution.

Comfortable Office

Our bright and modern Midtown East Manhattan office was designed with you in mind. Enjoy a calming atmosphere and comfortable amenities to help you feel at ease.

Health-First Approach

New York General Dentistry uses modern techniques and equipment to ensure your treatment is a success.

Let’s Brighten Your Smile!

New York General Dentistry is always welcoming new patients to our Midtown East dentist office.

Feel free to send a text to (929) 244-8140 or call (212) 838-0842

Schedule Appointment

Our New York City Office

Midtown East Manhattan

212.838.0842

133 East 58th St., ste 409
New York, NY 10022
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Hours:
Monday 8am – 7pm
Tuesday 8am – 5pm
Wednesday 8am – 5pm
Thursday 8am – 7pm
Friday 8am – 5pm

Sundays – Available by request for special cases and dental emergencies