Thinking about changing your smile? Here’s where I’d start
What would you like to change about your smile, and what would you like to keep? Here is how I would help you explore the options and decide what feels right for you.
Thinking about changing your smile can start with something quite small. Perhaps one tooth catches your eye in photographs, or you would like your teeth to look a little brighter. You might have a treatment in mind already, or simply want to know what is possible.
If we were sitting down together, I would want to hear your version of that first. What do you notice? How long has it bothered you? What would you feel happy with?
I’m a general dentist with interests in Invisalign, composite bonding and facial aesthetics. I want us to arrive at a plan you understand, feel comfortable with and can look after. This is how I would approach that conversation.
1. Tell me what you would change and what you would keep
Try finishing this sentence: “The thing I would most like to change is…” It helps us focus on the detail that matters to you. A photograph can be useful for explaining what you mean, especially if it is something you find difficult to describe.
I also want to know what you like about your smile. Perhaps you want to keep a small gap or the shape of your front teeth. Those details belong in the conversation too. The aim is to understand your preferences and explore what is appropriate for your mouth.
2. I’ll look at the whole picture
An assessment gives us the starting point: the condition of your teeth and gums, how your teeth meet, any symptoms, and treatment you have had before. I want you to understand how those findings affect the options we discuss.
Before whitening, for example, your teeth and gums need to be checked to make sure it is suitable. [1] If something needs attention first, I would explain what it is, why it matters and how it fits into the plan.
Tell me if you are nervous, or if a previous dental experience is making you apprehensive. That helps us talk about what would make the appointment more manageable for you.
3. We’ll work through the options together
For colour, dentist-supervised whitening may be worth exploring. It lightens natural teeth; existing crowns and other restorations will not whiten in the same way. Sensitivity and gum irritation are possible. I would want you to understand those limitations before deciding. [1]
For tooth position, orthodontic treatment may be an option. Clear aligners gradually move teeth through a planned series of trays. They require a proper assessment, and some problems need another approach or additional techniques. [2]
For a chipped tooth, the extent of the damage helps determine the repair. Options can include reattaching a fragment, a filling or a crown. I would explain why a particular option is appropriate for that tooth. [3]
You are welcome to ask what each option could achieve, what its drawbacks are, and what choosing no treatment would mean. [4]
4. Let’s talk about life after treatment
I want the practical details to be clear from the beginning. Clear aligners need consistent wear as instructed, and retainers are required afterwards to help keep teeth in their new positions. [2] Whitening is not permanent, so its limitations also belong in the discussion. [1]
Think about your routine, the appointments you can manage and what you would feel comfortable spending. Ask about follow-up care, possible maintenance costs and who to contact if you have a problem. Those questions help us build a plan that fits into your life.
5. Please ask me why
Alongside seeing patients, I’m an Educational Supervisor for a Foundation Dentist. I’m enthusiastic about teaching, and explaining things clearly matters to me. I want you to feel able to ask why I am suggesting something, or to say that an explanation has not quite made sense.
You should understand the benefits, risks, alternatives and likely costs before agreeing to treatment, with time to consider the information. You can ask questions, take that information away and decide what you feel comfortable with. [4]
If you would like to explore a change to your smile, contact me through draseaton.com or Instagram @dr_alisterseaton to arrange an assessment. Bring your questions and tell me what matters to you. We can work through the next steps together.
Further reading
Sources checked 8 October 2026. Individual suitability is assessed at a dental appointment.