The Importance of Having a Healthy Mouth Before Cosmetic Dentistry

You wouldn’t ignore your house’s poor foundation before hanging new curtains, right? Similarly, achieving beautiful results associated with cosmetic dentistry starts with a healthy basis. Before receiving veneers, teeth whitening, bonding, crowns, or other cosmetic treatments, it’s important to make sure the bedrock of your smile, your teeth and gums, are in good condition.

Why? By treating existing oral health problems first, you can help protect your investment and support better long-term results.

Cosmetic Dentistry Doesn’t Replace Dental Care

Cosmetic treatments are designed primarily to improve the appearance of your smile, although some restorations can also improve dental function. They aren’t intended to treat untreated cavities, infections, or active gum disease.

If you have an underlying dental problem, your dentist will typically want to address it before beginning elective cosmetic treatment. Otherwise, the problem could continue to progress beneath or around a cosmetic restoration.

For example, placing a veneer over a tooth with untreated decay won’t eliminate the cavity. Similarly, cosmetic treatment may be more difficult to plan if your gums are inflamed or unhealthy.

Healthy Gums Provide a Better Foundation

Your gums play an important role in the appearance and stability of your smile. Gum disease can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, recession, and changes in the tissues surrounding your teeth.

If your gums aren’t healthy, your dentist may recommend periodontal treatment before moving forward with cosmetic dentistry. Healthy gum tissue can provide a more predictable foundation for restorations and contribute to a more natural-looking final result.

Existing Problems Can Affect Your Results

Cosmetic dentistry requires careful planning. Your dentist needs to consider the condition of your teeth, your bite, your gums, and your overall oral health.

Cavities, cracks, worn teeth, missing teeth, or bite problems may influence which cosmetic treatment is appropriate. In some cases, treating these concerns first can change the overall treatment plan.

A comprehensive examination gives your dentist the opportunity to identify problems that may not be obvious when you look at your smile in the mirror.

Healthy Teeth Help Protect Your Investment

Many cosmetic treatments are designed to last for years with proper care. However, restorations still depend on the health of the teeth and tissues around them.

Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and treatment of existing problems can help protect your cosmetic investment. Even teeth with veneers or crowns can develop cavities around or beneath restorations if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained.

Once your mouth is healthy, you can move forward with cosmetic dentistry knowing that you’re building your new smile on a strong foundation. A beautiful smile is even better when it’s supported by healthy teeth and gums!

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Wardlaw earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry in 1998, and just one year later, formed I-20 Family Dental here in Arlington, TX. A member of the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry, he is experienced in providing an array of cosmetic services, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and more. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Wardlaw for cosmetic treatment, visit our website or call (817) 572-5115.