Real Patient Story: Maryann
For many people, the idea of a “smile makeover” sounds exciting… then comes the realization that means going to the dentist.
For some, going to the dentist, even for routine care, is a daunting task. And for a smile makeover? (In your dreams! If you’ve ever postponed dental care because of fear or a past bad experience, you’re not alone. The truth is that many people delay and avoid visiting a dentist due to angst and fear. Over my forty-plus years of practice, I’ve had the pleasure (and challenge) to care for and help more than a few.
Truth be told, some of my happiest and favorite patients were once “anti-dentites!”
Take Maryann, for example. Maryann’s story is a wonderful reminder that with the right approach, a smile makeover in NYC doesn’t have to come with fear or discomfort. It can actually be, dare I say, enjoyable.
A Lifetime of Anxiety, Changed by One Question
When Maryann first came to my office, she wasn’t smiling. In fact, she told me she had never felt comfortable with her teeth. One was chipped, another stuck out, and her upper teeth had begun shifting in a way that made her self-conscious. But it wasn’t just Maryann’s teeth that were a problem. She carried years of unfortunate and painful dental experiences: root canals that didn’t go well, dentists who felt “too rough,” and visits that left her anxious.
So, what brought Maryann in? One question: her grandson looked up at her and innocently asked: “Grandma, is that tooth going to fall out?” Ouch. That little question hit harder than any drill.
Conversation First – Treatment After
In my practice, every new patient visit begins with a conversation, not a procedure. We take time to get to know our new visitor: Our motto is, “The better we know you, the better we can care for you.”
Learning a patient’s dental history gives us a window into more than just their teeth, revealing prior experiences, specific and general concerns, and possible goals they wish to achieve for their dental health and appearance.
After learning about her past challenges, I handed Maryann a mirror and asked, “What is it that bothers you most about your smile? What would you love to change?”
Presenting Maryann with a question about her wants, rather than telling her what she needs, was patient-centric. The realization that I was listening to her helped her relax. It wasn’t about me telling her what she needed. It was during our chat that she realized she could have what she long desired – a beautiful smile.
A Gentle, Step-by-Step Smile Makeover Plan
The phrase “NYC Smile Makeover Without Anxiety” isn’t just a catchy headline; it’s exactly how we planned Maryann’s care. Instead of overwhelming her with everything at once, we took it step by step. This approach not only made the process easier to handle emotionally, but it also allowed her to spread out her financial investment over time.
Here’s how we did it:
Invisalign®:
First, we gently straightened her teeth with clear aligners. Comfortable, removable, and nearly invisible, Invisalign® allowed Maryann to make progress without feeling self-conscious.
Whitening:
Once Maryann’s teeth were aligned, we brightened her smile with a professional whitening treatment.
Porcelain Crowns:
Ultimately, porcelain crowns gave Maryann the beautiful, lasting smile she had always desired.
At every stage, Maryann was in control. She could pause, take her time, and decide when she was ready for the next step. It was never about what I would do to her and always about what I could do for her.
Note: If you’re interested in Invisalign®, ensure your dentist is experienced, trained, and will closely guide your treatment.
The Transformation
Over the months, as Maryann’s smile improved, her confidence grew. The woman who once sat nervously in my chair now walked into the office grinning ear to ear. Her radiant smile was always in her – we just helped it come out.
Today, Maryann proudly recommends us to others, and she’s living proof that a smile makeover in NYC can be life-changing without anxiety being part of the process. She says, “Nobody wants to go to the dentist, but at Dr. Sinkin’s office, you feel like you matter. You’ll be happy, and you’ll be taken care of.”
Why This Story Matters for You
Maryann went from avoiding dental visits to happily sending everyone she knows our way. She describes the team as warm, welcoming, and never rushed. And that is precisely the experience I want every patient to have.
If you’ve been putting off dental care because of fear, discomfort, or past experiences, Maryann’s story proves it’s possible to start fresh. Whether you’re interested in a complete smile makeover or general dentistry, the first step is simply a conversation.
Ready for Your Own NYC Smile Makeover Without Anxiety?
If you’ve been putting off dental care due to fear, discomfort, or past experiences, Maryann’s story proves it’s possible to start anew.
Whether you’re interested in a complete smile makeover (without anxiety!), general dentistry, or implant dentistry, the first step is simply a conversation. If you’re in the NYC area, schedule an appointment by calling our Manhattan office at 212-685-3040 (or text us below).
You’ve found your new dental home.
You Might Also Like:
- Afraid of the Dentist? 5 Simple Ways to Break the Cycle of Avoidance
- Why Great Dentists Are Artists At Heart
- Learn More About Invisalign®: TMJ Problems During Invisalign® Treatment
FAQs
1. What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a personalized treatment plan that combines cosmetic and restorative dentistry—such as Invisalign®, whitening, and porcelain crowns—to enhance the appearance, health, and confidence of your smile.
2. How long does a smile makeover take in NYC?
The timeline depends on your needs. Simple whitening may require only one visit, while a complete makeover with Invisalign® and crowns may take several months.
3. Are porcelain crowns better than veneers?
Porcelain crowns cover the entire tooth, making them stronger and ideal for teeth that are damaged or worn. Veneers only cover the front surface. Your dentist will recommend the option that best fits your goals.
4. How long do porcelain crowns last?
With proper care, porcelain crowns can last 10–15 years or longer, making them a durable, long-term solution for restoring your smile.
5. Does getting porcelain crowns hurt?
With modern techniques and gentle care, getting crowns is a comfortable process. Patients often report little to no discomfort during treatment.
6. What is the cost of a smile makeover in NYC?
Costs vary depending on the treatments chosen. Invisalign®, whitening, and porcelain crowns each have different fees. Your dentist can provide a customized estimate after a consultation.
7. Can porcelain crowns look natural?
Yes. High-quality porcelain crowns are carefully color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, resulting in a realistic and beautiful outcome.
8. Is a smile makeover permanent?
Results can last for many years with good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and healthy habits. Treatments like whitening may need touch-ups over time.
9. What if I have dental anxiety about a smile makeover?
Many patients feel nervous at first, but a step-by-step approach, open communication, and gentle care make the process calm and comfortable.
10. How do I start my own smile makeover?
The first step is a conversation with your dentist. At Dr. Michael Sinkin’s NYC office, we begin by listening to your concerns and goals before designing a personalized plan tailored to you.
