If you’re longing for a more radiant smile, you’re not alone. Countless people have turned to cosmetic dentistry over the years to perfect their teeth. Whether you want them to look brighter, straighter, or want to get rid of chips and cracks, your dentist can help. Before you can proceed with any elective treatment, however, they must make certain that there are no oral issues present. If you’re not sure why this is so important, keep reading to find out!
Why Do I Need a Clean Mouth Before Cosmetic Procedures?
Although your dentist is eager to help you achieve the perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of, their primary focus is your dental health. During your initial consultation, they’ll gather information about your medical and dental history, as well as examine your mouth. If you get a clean bill of health, you’re free to move forward with cosmetic procedures. If not, don’t lose hope! Your dentist will work with you to remedy any issues before proceeding.
This step is important because it allows your dentist to address areas of concern before they progress. Dental problems don’t get better on their own and will only grow worse in time. Taking the time to fix them now will lead to more successful cosmetic procedures.
How do Cavities Compromise Cosmetic Dentistry?
Tooth decay happens when harmful bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the protective enamel of your pearly whites. In time they can penetrate through the surface and infect the tender pulp inside. This can spread to neighboring teeth as well as your jawbone and can eventually cause toothaches, abscesses, and even tooth loss.
This can negatively impact several cosmetic treatments. For example, applying whitening agents to teeth with cavities can cause incredible amounts of discomfort. Other solutions like dental bonding and porcelain veneers are more likely to break or fall off if the underlying tooth is compromised. That means you need to start with a healthy mouth if you want to maintain your results long-term.
How Does Gum Disease Impact Cosmetic Dentistry?
Gum disease can be just as problematic as tooth decay when it comes to cosmetics. Unfortunately, if your gums have been infected by dangerous germs, they start to recede. As they gradually pull back, they leave the vulnerable roots of your teeth more exposed. This is bad for your oral health as well as your overall well-being. Periodontitis can enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas of your body, contributing to conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
To add insult to injury, gum disease can also exacerbate your self-consciousness about your smile. First, they’ll look red and swollen, and cause bad breath. Then, as they recede, your teeth will appear overly large in your mouth. If you have veneers, they will no longer be properly aligned and could fail.
It’s natural to want to improve your appearance, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your oral health. That’s why your dentist will make every effort to ensure that your teeth and gums are in good condition, first!
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam has nearly two decades of experience providing families with a full array of high-quality dental services under one roof. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and his Master of Science in Biology from the University of California, San Diego. Then he graduated from Temple University with his dental doctorate. He has continued developing his skills since then and stays on top of the latest advancements in technology and techniques with ongoing educational opportunities. With state-of-the-art technology onsite, he can enhance patient comfort while creating beautiful, long-lasting results. If you’d like a cosmetic consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (206) 589-8556.