Gladstone, MO -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/04/2014 -- Remember when cosmetic dentistry seemed to be only for the rich and famous? Today, with up-to-date techniques and newly developed materials, anyone can have a movie star smile. Fixing a gap from a missing tooth, re-aligning crooked teeth or repairing a broken tooth can be a life-changing event for an individual. Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental work that improves the appearance, but not necessarily the function, of a person's teeth, gums and bite.

Dr. David Platt and Dr. Gregory Dale know that their most important job is to make a smile healthy before performing any cosmetic work such as porcelain crowns or veneers. Dr. Dale explains, "You must have a healthy foundation first in order to support a building. It isn't any different with teeth." If the patient has gum disease, missing teeth or malocclusion (bad bite), cosmetic procedures merely cover up the primary problem. The doctors therefore do not focus on looks alone, but also consider the health of the teeth and gums.

As soon as Dr. Platt resolves the patient's structural problems, he begins improving the appearance of a smile by using porcelain crowns, veneers and natural tooth-colored fillings. Dr. Platt says, "I may choose to use other solutions, including dental implants and teeth whitening. A youthful smile can have a significant influence on how someone appears to themselves and others." With a complete smile makeover, lip lines that make an individual look older can be erased, teeth can be straightened instantly, and a whiter, more brilliant smile is produced.

Gladstone Family Dental found that most people spend around three seconds appraising an individual's appearance and tend to make judgments based on this first impression. Whether or not this is fair, it is evident that looks matter in today's world.

Getting a smile makeover can change a person's personal and professional lives. It is therefore important that the patient participates actively in every decision concerning their makeover. Drs. Dale and Platt take an across-the-board approach and believe in putting together a plan that the patient has agreed upon, before embarking on any work.

About Dr. Dale and Dr. Platt
Staying on top of the latest in dental techniques and technology is extremely important to Dr. Dale, who regularly attends advanced dental courses. Dr. Platt enjoys cosmetic dentistry procedures and changing people's lives by giving them the confidence to smile again.

Call for a smile consultation at 816-452-3420 or request an appointment.