Blake Nelson, DDS
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Planning a Wedding or Graduation? Start with a Confident Smile

May 13, 2025
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Posted By: Dr. Blake Nelson
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Big moments deserve big smiles, and few moments are as picture-perfect as weddings and graduations. Whether you’re walking down the aisle, crossing the stage, or watching a loved one celebrate a major milestone, one thing’s for sure: all eyes (and cameras) will be on you.

At Blake Nelson, DDS, we’re here to make sure your smile is ready for its close-up. Our dentist in Winston-Salem offers everything from professional teeth whitening to full smile makeovers with veneers so that you can glow with confidence on your big day and every day after.

Smile Goals for Your Milestone Moment

Most of us want to look our best for special events. Some of us even have a mental checklist. New outfit? Check. Hair and makeup? Check. But what about your smile? It’s one of the first things people notice, and it’ll be in every photo, video, and memory.

If you’ve been hiding your teeth because of stains, chips, or alignment issues, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself. At our state-of-the-art dental office in Winston-Salem, we make it easy (and even fun!) to feel great about your smile.

Shine Bright for Wedding Season

One of the quickest ways to boost your smile before your big day? Professional teeth whitening in Winston-Salem. While over-the-counter strips and toothpaste might make a small difference, nothing compares to a customized whitening treatment from a dental professional.

Our in-office whitening systems are safe, fast, and powerful, lifting years of stains caused by coffee, red wine, and all those celebratory lattes you’ve been sipping during wedding or graduation planning. We also offer take-home trays for touch-ups so your smile can stay bright long after the celebration.

Many of our patients see their teeth lighten by several shades in just one visit! And best of all, you can time it just right to show off your radiant results on the big day.

Fixing the Little Things with Tooth Bonding and Contouring

Have a small chip or uneven edge that always catches your eye in photos? We’ve got you! Cosmetic bonding and contouring are quick, painless ways to smooth out minor imperfections and refine your smile’s shape.

You’d be surprised how a tiny touch-up can make your smile look more symmetrical and polished without needing a full restoration. Bonus: there’s zero downtime, often taking less than an hour.

Thinking Bigger? Let’s Talk Veneers!

If you’re dreaming of a complete smile transformation—think dazzling, red carpet-worthy results—veneers might be your perfect match. Veneers are thin porcelain shells custom-crafted to fit over your natural teeth. They cover discoloration, gaps, chips, and uneven shapes, creating a flawless and natural-looking smile.

It’s one of the most popular treatments for brides, grooms, and graduates who want that wow-factor without months of orthodontics. Veneers typically take just two visits, and the results are long-lasting, making them an ideal investment for your milestone moment and many more to come!

Timing Your Smile Makeover

Wondering when to start planning your smile upgrade? Here’s a quick guide to help you work backward from your event:

  • 3–6 months before — This timing is ideal for full smile makeovers or veneers.
  • 4–6 weeks before — A little over a month before your event, get teeth whitening or dental bonding.
  • 1–2 weeks before — Schedule a cleaning and polish to make your smile sparkle!

We recommend coming in for a consultation early, especially if you have a timeline in mind. We’ll work with your schedule to create a treatment plan that helps you feel completely confident when it’s time to celebrate.

Why Opt for Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry can enhance your quality of life, boost your self-esteem, and even improve your oral health.

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Here are some of the key benefits:

  • Improved Self-Confidence — A confident smile can positively influence your interactions with others. When you're proud of your teeth, you're more likely to smile, speak, and laugh freely.
  • A Brighter, More Youthful Appearance — Treatments like teeth whitening and veneers can reverse years of discoloration and wear. A whiter, more symmetrical smile often results in a fresher, more youthful look overall.
  • Better Oral Health — Correcting issues such as crooked, chipped, or misaligned teeth can make daily cleaning easier and more effective. This helps reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
  • Improved Function — Cosmetic procedures can also enhance how your teeth function. For example, dental bonding or crowns can restore worn or damaged teeth, making it easier to chew food and speak clearly.
  • Personalized Treatment Plan — Cosmetic dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all solution. We tailor treatments to meet your individual needs, goals, and facial structure, so your results look natural and feel comfortable.
  • Long-Lasting Results — Many cosmetic dental treatments are designed for durability. With proper care and regular dental visits, veneers, bonding, and whitening can last many years.

A Personal Touch from Your Winston-Salem Dental Team

At Blake Nelson, DDS, we take pride in making dental care feel personal, warm, and completely judgment-free. We know how much love and effort goes into planning life’s biggest moments, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you’re celebrating in Clemmons, walking across a graduation stage at Wake Forest, or getting married in a scenic Winston-Salem vineyard, your smile should be the last thing you’re worried about.

Dr. Nelson and our friendly team will take time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and create a smile makeover plan that feels just right for you.

The Gift of Confidence (Yes, Even for Dads and Grads!)

Planning for someone else? Teeth whitening or a smile refresh makes an amazing graduation or wedding gift. It’s a thoughtful (and practical!) way to help your loved one walk into their new chapter with confidence. Bonus: it pairs well with a nice frame for all those photos.

Ready to Elevate Your Smile? Let’s Get Started!

Your dream smile is closer than you think. And it starts with a consultation with Dr. Nelson, our dentist in Winston-Salem.

Call Blake Nelson, DDS, today! 

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