When most people think about aging, they focus on wrinkles. But wrinkles are only half the story. The other half is volume loss. As we get older, our faces naturally lose collagen, fat, and bone density. That’s why cheeks flatten, lips thin, and smile lines deepen. Wrinkles are just the surface symptom. The real change happens beneath the skin.
At 615 Smile Design, we offer dermal fillers to address both the visible lines and the underlying volume loss. Dr. Ashley Whetsell is certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics to provide these treatments. And we’re seeing more patients who want a natural, refreshed look, without surgery.
Fillers vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. And it’s an important one.
Botox relaxes muscles. It smooths wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions, like frown lines between the eyebrows or crow’s feet around the eyes. Dermal fillers add volume. They plump up areas that have lost fullness over time. Think of them as restoring what time has taken away.
Many patients benefit from both. But they serve completely different purposes.
What Can Dermal Fillers Do?
Dermal fillers are incredibly versatile. At our Nashville office, we use them to:
- Restore cheek volume that has flattened with age
- Plump thinning lips for a fuller, more natural look
- Softens nasolabial folds (those lines from your nose to your mouth)
- Smooth marionette lines (the lines around your mouth and chin)
- Enhance facial contours for better balance and symmetry
The goal isn’t to change how you look. It’s to help you look like you, just a more refreshed, rested version.
What to Expect During Treatment
We know that any injection can feel intimidating. That’s why we take extra care to make the experience comfortable.
Dr. Whetsell will start with a consultation. She’ll listen to your goals, examine your facial structure, and recommend the right approach. Everyone’s face is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all plan.
The treatment itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Most fillers contain lidocaine, a numbing agent, to minimize discomfort. Some patients also choose to use ice or topical numbing cream beforehand.
Afterward, you might have some mild swelling or bruising. That’s normal and usually fades within a few days. Most patients return to their regular activities immediately.
Why See a Dentist for Fillers?
It might seem unusual to get dermal fillers at a dental office. But dentists understand facial anatomy better than almost any other healthcare provider. They study the muscles, nerves, and bones of the face in depth. Dr. Whetsell’s advanced training through the American Academy of Facial Esthetics gives her even more expertise in this area.
When you combine that knowledge with an artistic eye, you get natural-looking results. No frozen expressions. No overdone lips. Just balanced, beautiful outcomes that enhance your unique features.
How Long Do Fillers Last?
Results vary depending on the type of filler and where it’s placed. Generally, dermal fillers last anywhere from 6 to 18 months. Over time, the body gradually absorbs the material.
Many patients choose to schedule touch-up appointments to maintain their results. We’ll help you find a schedule that works for your goals and your budget.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
Dermal fillers work well for patients who:
- Notice hollowing in their cheeks or under their eyes
- Want fuller lips without surgery
- Have deep smile lines they’d like to soften
- Are looking for a non-surgical way to refresh their appearance
Dr. Whetsell will be honest about what fillers can and cannot do. If they aren’t the right solution, she’ll recommend alternatives that might work better.
Your Smile Deserves Expert Care
At 615 Smile Design, we believe in treating the whole person. That means caring about your oral health and how you feel about your appearance. Dermal fillers are just one way we help patients look and feel their best.
Ready to explore what fillers could do for you? Call us at (615) 637-2878 or schedule an appointment online. We proudly serve patients in Nashville, Dickson, and surrounding communities. Let’s talk about restoring what time has taken and bringing back your most confident smile.