Transforming Your Smile: A Guide to Cosmetic Dental Procedures

A confident smile can be a game-changer, boosting your self-esteem and leaving a lasting impression. If you've been dreaming of a smile makeover, cosmetic dental procedures can help you achieve that dazzling, picture-perfect grin. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various cosmetic dental treatments available, share insights from experts, and provide tips to choose the right dentist for your needs.

The Power of a Confident Smile

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A bright, healthy smile can enhance your personal and professional interactions, making you feel more confident and approachable. Cosmetic dental procedures are designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile, addressing issues such as discoloration, misalignment, and gaps.

Popular Cosmetic Dental Treatments

There are several cosmetic dental procedures available to help you achieve your dream smile. Here are some of the most popular treatments:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a simple yet effective procedure that brightens your teeth by removing stains and discoloration. This treatment can be done in-office or at home using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel. It's suitable for anyone looking to enhance their smile's appearance quickly and affordably.

Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth. Made from porcelain or composite resin, they can correct various dental imperfections such as chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. Veneers offer a natural-looking and durable solution for a flawless smile.

Orthodontics (Braces and Invisalign)

Orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign help straighten misaligned teeth and correct bite issues. While traditional braces use metal brackets and wires, Invisalign employs clear, removable aligners for a more discreet option. These treatments are ideal for individuals seeking long-term improvements in their dental alignment and function.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone, which acts as a root for a replacement tooth. Dental implants provide a natural look and feel, restoring your smile's functionality and aesthetics.

Insights from a Cosmetic Dentist

We spoke with Dr. Kelly Robinson, a leading cosmetic dentist, to get her insights on these procedures. She emphasized the importance of choosing a qualified dentist and having realistic expectations about the results. "Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile, but it's crucial to understand the limitations and risks involved," she said. "Always consult with a professional to determine the best treatment for your individual needs."

Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist

When selecting a cosmetic dentist, consider their experience, credentials, and patient reviews. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients. Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you're unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

What is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure?

Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure because it is a quick and easy way to enhance your smile. It is non-invasive and highly effective for most patients.

Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?

When cosmetic dental procedures are being performed for the sole purpose of improving your appearance it will not be covered by insurance. However, procedures that also serve a restorative purpose to improve your oral health may be covered.

The Journey to Your Dream Smile

Cosmetic dental procedures offer numerous benefits, from enhancing your appearance to improving your overall oral health. If you're ready to take the first step towards your dream smile, schedule a consultation with a qualified cosmetic dentist today. Transform your smile and boost your confidence with the help of expert care and advanced dental treatments.

By understanding the various cosmetic dental options and choosing the right dentist, you can achieve a beautiful, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. Don't wait any longer—start your smile transformation journey today!

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Robinson’s 11th Year as one of Texas’s Super Dentists®

For the 11th consecutive year, Dr. Kelly S. Hamblen Robinson has been named by her peers to the Super Dentists® list.  The full list will be published in a special advertising section in TEXAS Monthly in December 2024.  

After an extensive nomination and research process followed by a Blue Ribbon Panel review of all candidates, Dr. Robinson was once again named to the exclusive list.

Dr. Robinson comes from a family of dentists and became a third-generation graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry in 1989.  Soon after, she joined her parents’ dental practice in Lubbock before taking over the practice in 2000.

“I’m so flattered to be selected for the Super Dentists list again,” says Dr. Robinson. “It is such an honor to be recognized for doing vital work that I’m so passionate about. We continue to learn more and more about how crucial good oral health is to overall wellness and longevity. It is a privilege to share my knowledge and skills to help others live their healthiest, happiest lives.”

About Dr. Kelly S. Hamblen Robinson

Dr. Robinson has been at the forefront of oral health innovations for decades, focusing on preventative, reconstructive, and cosmetic dentistry. Her lifelong dedication to patient health includes extensive studies in bioregenerative dentistry, which enables her to employ conservative approaches to restoring teeth.

A firm believer in the value of preventive treatments, Dr. Robinson uses bacterial testing as a preventive treatment in her practice. She has embarked on extensive studies in sleep dentistry and is certified to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using oral appliances. As an expert in full mouth rehabilitation, Dr. Robinson is also selective about the labs she uses to create all dental restorations (bridges, crowns, dentures, implants, etc.).

Outside of her practice, Dr. Robinson remains passionate about helping others to improve their oral health. She has provided dental care and oral health education on many mission trips to countries including Haiti, Guatemala, and Mexico. She is also involved in a variety of charities and nonprofits, including the American Diabetes Association, the Lubbock Symphony, and others. 

Oral Healthcare at Robinson and Malone Dentistry

Today, Robinson and Malone Dentistry has practices in Lubbock and Snyder. The comprehensive, all-age practice is a top Google-reviewed dental practice offering services ranging from preventive care to whole-mouth reconstruction, using the latest advancements in dental technologies and techniques.

Robinson and Malone Dentistry provides complete pediatric, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, with services ranging from routine cleanings and exams to Invisalign, teeth whitening, and complete mouth restoration with dental implants. The practice also offers periodontal treatments including scaling and root planing and periodontal maintenance.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do You Accept Care Credit?

Absolutely. CareCredit allows you to finance preventive, restorative, pediatric, cosmetic, or periodontal treatments at Robinson and Malone Dentistry.

Do you offer sedation for patients who experience fear or anxiety about going to the dentist?

Yes. We are devoted to providing patients with the essential oral healthcare they need. If you or a family member needs help relaxing during a dental appointment, please notify our team when booking your appointment.

Book Your Dental Appointment in Lubbock or Snyder, TX

Contact us today to schedule a dental appointment with Robison and Malone Dentistry. You may also message us to request an appointment and we will follow up promptly. 

Are You Properly Brushing Your Teeth?

Brushing your teeth is the single best thing you can do to maintain good oral health. Indeed, to achieve and maintain excellent oral hygiene, it’s crucial that you’re consistently, and properly brushing your teeth. To ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, all the while helping to safeguard your overall health, read on for best practices. 

Teeth Brushing Technique

Thoroughly removing plaque from the teeth requires proper technique when brushing. To best reach all areas of the teeth, begin by holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle.  Then begin moving the brush back and forth in short strokes over each tooth. Make sure to pay particular attention to the area at your gum line, as plaque tends to accumulate there.

 

 Be sure to brush the outside of the teeth, the inside of the teeth, along with the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. To keep your breath fresh, finish by brushing your tongue. 

Teeth Brushing Frequency 

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice daily. However, you can certainly benefit from brushing more frequently. Brushing your teeth after meals is ideal for removing plaque that begins to form after you eat. If you’re unable to brush after each meal, rinsing your teeth with water after a meal is also a great way to remove some of the sugars and acids that mix with saliva to form plaque.  

Duration

To thoroughly clean the outer surface, inner surface, and chewing surfaces of the teeth, you should spend two full minutes brushing your teeth. To ensure you’re brushing for a full two minutes it may be helpful to set a timer on your phone.  

 

If you’re brushing for less than two minutes, you’re missing out on a valuable opportunity to remove 26% more plaque than if you only brush for 45 seconds, according to a comprehensive study

 

Flossing: Why Brushing Alone isn’t Enough

Even if you have excellent teeth brushing technique, and follow the American Dental Association’s recommendation to brush at least twice daily for a full two minutes, you’ll still need to floss. Brushing your teeth will not remove the plaque that accumulates between the teeth.  Daily flossing helps remove bits of food and debris in the mouth that leads to tooth decay. 

 

Options for flossing include dental floss, dental tape, or a water flosser. All are effective at removing food and plaque from between the teeth.

Frequent Professional Dental Cleanings Promote Good Oral Health

The final steps in achieving and maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile are regular dental cleanings. Professional cleanings remove the plaque that can’t be removed at home.  Professional cleanings also include dental exams, so that any potential problems can be caught and treated early. Regular preventive dental care can save you time, money, and potential pain, ensuring a healthy mouth for years to come. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Brushing Your Teeth 

What type of toothpaste should I use?

We recommend non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Although toothpastes that contain abrasive agents such as charcoal or baking soda are fine to use on occasion, we recommend you limit their use to prevent enamel erosion.

 

What type of toothbrush should I use?

Many people prefer electric toothbrushes, and there is some evidence they may be more effective at removing plaque than manual toothbrushes. However, the type of toothbrush you use is less important than consistent and proper brushing techniques.

 

Schedule a Dental Cleaning in Lubbock or Snyder, TX

If it’s been six months or longer since your last dental check-up and cleaning, it’s time to schedule your appointment.  To best serve our patients, Robinson and Malone Dentistry has two offices in Lubbock and Snyder, TX.  Book your appointment today.