What Kind of Dentists Do Smile Makeovers?

April 1, 2026

Dentist holding up X-ray for patient to see.

A smile makeover can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence. But many people wonder: what kind of dentist actually performs a smile makeover? The answer depends on the treatments involved, because smile makeovers often combine several cosmetic and restorative procedures into one customized plan.

What is a Smile Makeover?

A smile makeover is a personalized combination of dental treatments designed to improve the appearance and function of your smile. Depending on your needs, it may include teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, bonding, orthodontics, or dental implants.

Because smile makeovers can involve multiple procedures, different dental professionals may work together to achieve the final result.

Cosmetic Dentists

The dentist most commonly associated with smile makeovers is a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentists focus on improving the appearance of teeth, gums, and overall smile aesthetics.

They often perform procedures such as:

  • Teeth whitening.
  • Dental bonding.
  • porcelain veneers.
  • Gum contouring.
  • Tooth reshaping.

Cosmetic dentists are skilled at creating balanced, natural-looking smiles while considering factors like tooth shape, color, and symmetry.

General Dentists

Many general dentists also perform smile makeovers, especially if they have additional training in cosmetic dentistry. General dentists can often handle procedures like crowns, whitening, and bonding in-house.

They also play an important role in ensuring your teeth and gums are healthy before cosmetic work begins. Conditions such as gum disease or untreated decay may need to be addressed first to ensure long-lasting results.

Orthodontists

If your smile makeover involves correcting crooked teeth or bite issues, an orthodontist may be part of the process. Orthodontists specialize in moving teeth into proper alignment using braces or clear aligners.

Straightening teeth before cosmetic treatment can improve both appearance and function while creating a stronger foundation for restorations like veneers or crowns.

Prosthodontists and Oral Surgeons

More complex smile makeovers may involve specialists such as prosthodontists or oral surgeons. Prosthodontists focus on restoring damaged or missing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.

Oral surgeons may perform procedures like tooth extractions or dental implant placement when surgical care is needed.

How to Choose the Right Dentist

If you’re considering a smile makeover, look for a dentist with experience in cosmetic procedures and a portfolio of before-and-after photos. Reading reviews and scheduling a consultation can also help you feel confident in your choice.

During your consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Smile makeovers are often a team effort involving cosmetic dentists, general dentists, orthodontists, and other specialists. The right provider depends on the treatments needed to achieve your ideal smile. No matter which dental professionals are involved, the goal is the same: creating a healthy, functional, and confident smile that you’ll love sharing with the world.

About the Practice

Looking for the right practice to handle your smile makeover? Trust our talented team here at Tad Morgan, DDS for the right care when it comes to overhauling your oral look. Our lead dentists, Drs. Morgan and Kotzur, have decades of experience in their field, so you can rest assured you’re getting the expertise you deserve. With flexible financing options available, it’s never easier financially to make the smile of your dreams a reality. Book online or call us at (903) 825-1112.