Dental Tips If You're Considering a Smile Makeover

The journey is new, but the place is familiar. Dr. Mary Rock is a dentist with over 25 years of experience and is thrilled to return to her home state to operate Valley View Dental.
Dr. Rock graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 1996 and has practiced in Nebraska and New Mexico. She grew up on a farm near Avoca, a small Iowa town located approximately 40 miles east of Council Bluffs.
Dr. Rock thrives on building connections with patients. By now, she realizes people don't buzz with excitement for a dentist appointment. With that in mind, Dr. Rock's personality naturally creates a warm, light environment that prioritizes professionalism and productivity. Dr. Rock routinely finds the appropriate treatment plan for a variety of considerations, including cosmetic dentistry, root canals, implants, clear aligners, sleep disorders and, perhaps most importantly, the relationship between one's oral health and their overall wellbeing.
Growing up, Dr. Rock's teeth were crooked - a source of personal doubt and self-consciousness. She calls a successful correction of her smile life-changing, and that's not hyperbole. Doing the same for others is part of what continues to drive her passion, day-in and day-out. (If you look good, you feel good ... and all of that). Dr. Rock and her husband Tom are parents to four adult children - and a miniature dachshund - and love spending time with their seven grandchildren. Dr. Rock enjoys being outside (hiking, biking, swimming, catching a nearby live music show …) and she also enjoys sewing and being active in her community.
At Valley View Dental, Dr. Rock and her team take pride in developing trustworthy and communicative relationships with patients - and, yes, they like to have fun along the way, too.

Thinking about improving your smile might feel like a big decision, but starting the process now can work in your favor. Taking the time to focus on your dental goals gives you some space to prioritize your well-being.
Whether you have been thinking about brightening your teeth, fixing uneven edges, or making other changes, now is a good season to start planning. A smile makeover takes time and thought, and starting today gives you a chance to slow down and look ahead before the rush of upcoming life events.
Your environment can impact how your mouth feels. Sudden temperature shifts from heated indoor spaces to the outdoors can make sensitive teeth more noticeable. If you already deal with sensitivity or have some older dental work, you might notice that your teeth ache more than usual during certain times of the year.
Dry mouth is another common problem. Climate control systems often pull moisture from the air, which can make saliva dry up faster. This can lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and even more plaque buildup. If you are planning any kind of dental treatment or adjustment, a dry mouth can sometimes slow down early healing.
Another issue people do not always think about is chapped lips. When the skin around your mouth gets dry or cracked, it can make appointments feel more uncomfortable and can delay recovery from things like whitening or bonding. Staying hydrated and using lip balm regularly can help with all of this. Small efforts like drinking more water can make a noticeable difference in your overall comfort.
Planning ahead gives you some extra flexibility in your schedule. That extra time can come in handy if you need to fit in consultations, take care of multiple visits, or just need time to think through your options.
Another benefit of starting now is the cushion it gives between today and the busy seasons ahead. If you are hoping to have a new smile in time for spring break, family photos, weddings, or graduations, then beginning your plan early gives you breathing room. That can be especially important if your smile makeover involves more than one step.
Being proactive also helps with post-treatment recovery. You can plan your schedule around your recovery timeline, ensuring you have time to relax at home with a book or your favorite shows while your new smile settles in.
Before you talk to a dentist about next steps, it is helpful to know what you are aiming for. Getting specific makes a huge difference. Are you bothered by a single chipped tooth? Do your teeth feel too small? Are deep stains bothering you, even after professional cleanings?
We recommend making a quick list of things you would like to change. It could include details like tooth color, spacing, uneven edges, or how your smile looks in photos. Looking at old pictures of yourself or others can help point out details you like or do not like.
This kind of prep work gives your first consultation more focus. You are not expected to know what procedure is best, but knowing what bugs you or what you would like to feel more confident about gives direction. A thoughtful smile makeover is based on goals, not guesswork.
When you get ready to meet with someone about your smile, it helps to come in with your priorities clear and your questions ready.
By asking early, you avoid surprises later. Being informed upfront helps everything go smoother, whether it is making a treatment choice or knowing what to expect on the day of your appointment.
Sitting in a dental chair for a procedure can be much easier when you are dressed for comfort. Long treatments are more manageable when you are layered in a warm sweatshirt or thick socks, which can help you relax your body during longer visits.
Dry lips are one of the most common complaints during and after dental work. Using lip balm before and after can keep the skin around your mouth from cracking. If you are planning to have something that might leave your gums sore or your bite a bit off for a day or two, soft meals are another comfort tip. Stocking up on soup, smoothies, or mashed foods makes your evening more relaxed.
If you are already prone to sensitivity, tell your provider so they can prepare you ahead of time. Planning for these small things can make appointments smoother so you are not caught off guard.
We offer cosmetic solutions like veneers, dental bonding, and professional teeth whitening tailored to your needs. Smile makeovers can be planned according to your goals, with digital imaging available to preview changes before treatment even begins. Our dentists work with you to build a personalized makeover plan, so your results look natural and feel comfortable.
Taking a quiet stretch of time to think about self-improvement without distraction is a great way to start. If a smile makeover is something you have considered, it now offers a window to plan without rushing.
By giving yourself the chance to think clearly, ask questions, and weigh your options, you are setting yourself up to enjoy more confidence in the months ahead. A fresh start often begins with a thoughtful plan, and starting today gives you the space to make one.
Now is the perfect time to transform your smile and boost your confidence with a personalized makeover. At Valley View Dental, our smile makeover dentist is ready to help you achieve that dream smile. Whether you are planning to dazzle at upcoming events or simply want to feel great every day, our team will tailor treatments to fit your goals. Start your journey to a stunning smile today.

Phone:
Address:
1840 Madison Ave, Suite 1 Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Monday: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Tuesday: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Wednesday: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Thursday: 8:00AM - 4:30PM
Friday: By Appointment Only
© 2026 All Rights Reserved | Valley View Dental | Built by MORNINGDOVE