A More Comprehensive Way to Plan Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentist and TMJ Dentist in Portland, OR
When dentistry is simple, the solution should be simple. When a patient has jaw symptoms, significant tooth wear, failing restorations, bite changes, or complex aesthetic goals, treatment may require a broader view. At Aesthetic Smiles, we evaluate the factors that are most relevant to the patient’s problem before deciding what to treat - and in what sequence.
Our Philosophy
We do not believe every dental problem has a single cause, and we do not believe every patient needs the same diagnostic workup. Instead, we ask a more useful question: what information do we need to understand this patient’s current condition and plan responsibly?
For some patients, that may involve only routine examination and imaging. For complex cases, it may also include analysis of tooth wear, bite relationships, jaw joints, muscle activity, facial proportions, periodontal health, airway concerns, existing restorations, and the patient’s desired aesthetic endpoint.
Why Sequence Matters
One of the biggest differences in complex care is sequencing. If the bite is unstable or the patient has active TMJ symptoms, it may be prudent to stabilize and evaluate function before completing extensive veneers, crowns, implants, or orthodontic movement. If tooth position is limiting the restorative result, orthodontics may come first. If gum health is unstable, periodontal care may need to precede cosmetic treatment. The final plan should reflect the clinical priorities of that individual patient.
Reversible Before Irreversible When Appropriate
In selected complex cases, a reversible phase may be used to evaluate comfort, jaw position, bite relationships, or the intended restorative dimensions before permanent treatment begins. This may involve provisional restorations, orthodontic planning, bite stabilization or Myoaligner® therapy when clinically appropriate. The purpose is to gather information and reduce unnecessary guesswork before definitive dentistry.
Technology With a Purpose
- CBCT 3D imaging - detailed evaluation of teeth, bone, jaw joints, airway and facial anatomy when indicated.
- Digital photography and imaging - communication, cosmetic planning and documentation.
- Computerized jaw-function and muscle analysis - additional functional information in selected TMJ, bite, and complex restorative cases.
- Clear aligner technology - controlled tooth movement as part of orthodontic, cosmetic or restorative planning.
- Laser dentistry - precision soft-tissue and periodontal applications where appropriate.
- Sleep study coordination - screening and collaboration with qualified medical providers when sleep-disordered breathing is suspected.
The Patient Experience
Complex dentistry can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to make the process understandable. We explain what we see, what we do not yet know, which findings matter, what options are reasonable, and why one phase may need to happen before another. The result should be a plan that the patient can understand and make an informed decision about.
Meet The Team
If you have been given a complex treatment plan, have had repeated dental failures or simply want to understand the bigger picture before proceeding, request an appointment with Aesthetic Smiles.
What Patients Say After Their First Diagnosis
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This is not your average dental office, this is Aesthetic Smiles. I won't go anywhere else. Recently had a much needed deep clean done at AS. I appreciated her attention to detail so much! She made sure I would walk away with a future for healthy gums and a better smile. I am so thankful for the work she did, and for all the work AS has done for me so far.Mindy
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Great staff and Dr. Tennant is knowledgeable, empathetic, approachable, and relatable.Craig Zanon
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My treatment here made a big difference in my overall quality of life.Ritika Saripalli
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The staff is so nice.Shari Young
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Very friendly and professional. They always do good work.John Blyler
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The inlays she created to take in and out so you can correct your bite are cutting-edge technology.Judy Masterson
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After a few years of work I can breathe better, I no longer get jaw pain and my teeth are straight.Samantha Alt
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Great staff and great services.Madison Maixner
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The knowledge and capabilities they possess, along with their eagerness to help, make for great treatment!ClDl SolshineGrowing
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Always the best and fun too, but still very professional.Matt Voegtle
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Always the best of professional service.Joe Glomboski
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Seriously, this is the best dentist ever! They are beyond thorough, competent, and friendly.Suzie Gannett
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They make going to the dentist a pleasure.Joanne Moutoux
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I can not say enough good things about Dr. Motlagh and her entire staff.Jackie Snook
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Very relaxing environment and quality job.Stephen Fenzi
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I had weekly headaches until I had an orthotic fitted. They went away!Evan Komp
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They do a great job.Laurie King
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The treatment is non-invasive, using the latest technology.Miriam M
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So passionate about their work and create a caring and comforting atmosphere!Rachel Arnold
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This is the best experience I have ever had with a dentist and dental practice!Emma Kintz
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Her and her staff do an amazing job and are very caring!wanda briggs
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Caring and professional group!Eric Kaczmarek
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The quality of work, atmosphere, amenities, and staff are as good as it gets.Dick Capello
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Their standards of care are extremely high and the final result always exceptional.Greg Pressler
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They regained my trust in dentistry and I look forward to my appointments now.Jamie Nadherny
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They are absolutely wonderful and make you feel very comfortable.Corie Parker
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They make you feel so comfortable and make your experience a pleasant one every time!Vanessa Benedetti
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Even after moving across town I come to Aesthetic Smiles, her work is impeccable.Kelly Rees
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They are helpful, thoughtful, attentive, and they listen to you!C Loescher
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When I left, I felt like I was much more informed and prepared for my dental future.Lyndsay Gomez
AND MORE CONFIDENT SMILE. Request Appointment
Professional Partnerships
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Myoaligner -
VIVOS -
International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics (ICCMO) -
Airway Health Solutions -
LVI