You’re talking to your dentist about getting a dental cosmetic treatment, but they said something about needing to make sure you have good oral health first. Does this mean you’ll need preliminary treatments? And why is that?
There are many reasons why it’s necessary to have pristine teeth and vibrant gums before committing to cosmetic dentistry. Basically, a happy mouth makes for a happy treatment experience! Keep reading to learn more.
Cavities and Gum Disease Can Cause Tooth Loss
Let’s say the dental cosmetic treatment you’re considering is porcelain veneers. If you have an active case of cavities or gum disease, the bacteria and decay could cause the natural tooth underneath your veneer to fall out. This means you’ll also lose the veneer that took you at least two weeks to get!
This scenario applies to almost all types of dental cosmetics. The bottom line is that if your teeth are decaying or your gums are receding, you won’t be able to support veneers or orthodontics.
Your Mouth Could Be Sensitive
If you have an existing oral condition, chances are your teeth and gums are fairly inflamed and sensitive. Getting a teeth whitening or gum recontouring treatment while your mouth is tender will likely only increase your discomfort. Imagine trying to reshape your gumline when gum disease is already making this pink tissue shrink!
Proper Prep Helps You Avoid Complications
Take braces, for example. The shape of your teeth can change drastically when they’re afflicted with cavities, which can throw off the precise calculations that went into designing your orthodontics. Applying pressure on a cavity-infected tooth could cause your teeth to shift in the wrong direction, or at the very least prolong your treatment time. It’s better to simply avoid this risk and take care of any active oral issues that could trigger complications.
Conclusion
Dentists don’t recommend preliminary treatments like crowns, fillings, or gum disease therapy lightly. They know you’re excited to receive your dental cosmetics and want to help you enhance your smile. However, rushing into your treatment without checking for and taking care of existing oral conditions will ultimately cause more harm than good. Be patient while your dentist checks on your oral health and be sure to follow their instructions so you can enjoy your new smile without worries.
About the Author
Dr. Jordan has been practicing dentistry for over 10 years, and emphasizes preventative care and overall wellness. He knows that oral illnesses can have a big impact on your treatment plan. To help you avoid complications with your dental cosmetics, he’ll thoroughly examine your mouth and review your health history, as well as take care of any necessary preliminary treatments. To contact Dr. Jordan’s office, call 972-306-2273.