During his long career as a smile expert, Chicago cosmetic dentist Dr. Eliot Tokowitz says he has seen the evolution of the smile makeover. He believes today’s options can create the most beautiful and healthy smile transformations, often without the need for veneers. “I started my journey in cosmetic dentistry back when porcelain veneers were being introduced, around 1987,” he explains. “That’s when we understood we had the ability to fuse thin porcelain shells onto teeth to make them look better.”
Fast forward more than 30 years, and Dr. Tokowitz says porcelain veneers have earned their place in cosmetic dentistry. Today, however, patients who seek to improve their appearance can achieve that goal while also preserving natural tooth structure. “I always try to preserve healthy tooth structure whenever possible,” he explains. “While it might be easier or faster to prepare teeth for crowns or veneers, it isn’t always the best option.”
Fast Turnaround Time
One treatment Dr. Tokowitz often recommends to patients seeking a smile makeover is Invisalign, which takes less time than many people assume. The results are a dramatic improvement in aesthetics and a healthier bite, too. “Sometimes, simply moving the teeth will give a patient the new smile they desire,” he says. “However, if you’re going to an important event in a month or so, you might not have time for teeth straightening and, in that case, veneers might be the best option. If you do have 4-8 months, your teeth can be moved into better positions which will dramatically improve your smile. Sometimes, there’s a need to replace old crowns or fillings along with Invisalign treatment, and we can whiten teeth, too.”
An Artistic Approach
A skilled cosmetic dentist will approach each case with a keen eye and recommend the most appropriate treatment for each patient’s concerns and goals. Dr. Tokowitz says an important first step is to address crowded and misaligned teeth. “There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution, and that is why people should seek an experienced cosmetic dentist who will evaluate your needs and your situation,” he explains. “I believe in a conservative approach and much like an artist I have a vision of what is going to look aesthetically pleasing in terms of the shapes and positions of the teeth. Moving teeth with Invisalign or my teeth preparations for veneers is my version of an artist’s paintbrush.”
