Smile Makeovers

Dr. Emily Hortman: Your Cosmetic Smile Artist

Dr. Emily Hortman combines deep technical knowledge with the artistry essential to designing stunning, natural-looking smiles. She earned her DMD and completed advanced training in general dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina. Since joining and later leading Palmetto Dental Associates, she emphasizes individualized care rooted in trust, open communication, and exceptional results.

Under Dr. Hortman’s guidance, smile transformations feel more like collaborative artistry than clinical procedures. She works closely with you to envision and achieve your ideal outcome, blending expertise and empathy every step of the way.

Personalized Smile Makeover Treatments

1. Cosmetic Consultation & Vision Crafting

Your journey begins with a thoughtful consultation, during which Dr. Hortman listens to your smile dreams, examines your oral health, and reviews your facial features, bite, and aesthetic preferences.

2. Treatment Planning with Precision

Using digital imaging and smile simulation tools, we develop a tailored treatment plan that may combine multiple procedures to achieve your goals.

3. Execution with Excellence

Your treatment plan may involve one or more of the following:

• Teeth Whitening to eliminate discoloration quickly.
• Dental Veneers to correct chips, gaps, or surface imperfections.
• Dental Bonding for cost-effective repair of minor flaws.
• Invisalign gently straightens teeth without braces.
• And strategic restorative work—like crowns or implants—for a healthy foundation.

4. Final Reveal & Personalized Aftercare

We guide you through finishing touches and provide thorough aftercare to ensure your new smile looks brilliant and lasts. Some aftercare tips we suggest include:

1. Immediate Recovery

After your smile makeover, your mouth may feel slightly sore, especially after multiple procedures. Here’s what to expect:

• Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days.
• Temporary adjustments in bite alignment as your teeth adapt.
• A soft diet may help during the first 24–48 hours, especially after crowns, veneers, or implants.

2. Oral Hygiene Essentials

Maintaining good hygiene preserves the results of your smile makeover.

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Use non-abrasive toothpaste to protect veneers, crowns, and cosmetic restorations.
• Floss daily, ideally with floss threaders or water flossers if you have bridges or implants.
• Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid drying your mouth and damaging dental work.

3. Eating and Drinking Tips

Diet choices can make a big difference in the longevity of your new smile:

• Avoid staining foods/drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries right after whitening.
• Limit sticky or hard foods (caramel, ice, nuts) that can chip veneers or crowns.
• Stay hydrated to support saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth.

Why Smile Makeovers Matter

1. Boosted Confidence—A radiant smile can powerfully impact your self-esteem and how others see you.
2. Improved Oral Health—Many aesthetic corrections strengthen tooth structure and support proper function.
3. Enhanced Functionality—Straightening or restructuring teeth leads to better bite alignment and ease of oral hygiene.
4. Tailored Expression—Each makeover reflects your personality and facial harmony—never “one-size-fits-all.”
5. Long-Term Value—With thoughtful design and quality materials, your smile makeover can last for years with proper care.