A beautiful smile has the power to light up a room, boost your confidence, and leave a lasting impression on everyone you meet. You might think that cosmetic dentistry holds the key to achieving that perfect smile, but the journey actually begins long before you sit in the dentist’s chair for a whitening or veneer appointment. You must address your oral health first, as a healthy mouth forms the foundation for any successful cosmetic dental procedure. In this blog post, you will learn more about why achieving a healthy smile is the first step toward reaching your aesthetic goals.
Poor Oral Health Interferes with Cosmetic Treatment
If you have issues such as cavities, gum disease, or infections, these problems can create obstacles for any cosmetic work. Active dental disease can cause pain, delay healing, and even jeopardize the results of cosmetic procedures.
For example, restorations like veneers will not last if placed over decayed or overly weakened teeth. Infection or decay beneath the surface could compromise the integrity of these treatments, leading to additional discomfort and costly repairs. Gum disease, another common oral health issue, can progress to the point where the teeth become loose or even fall out altogether; needless to say, that could undo the results of any cosmetic treatment!
The Aesthetic Benefits of a Healthy Smile
If your mouth is not quite healthy enough for cosmetic services, do not be too disheartened! Prioritizing your oral wellness can bring some aesthetic improvements on its own. For example:
- Whereas diseased gums are swollen and red, healthy gums are firm, pink, and create a pleasing frame for your teeth.
- Your dentist can use tooth-colored materials to repair damaged or decayed teeth, which can improve both their function and appearance.
- Your good oral care habits, such as a diligent oral care routine, can minimize stains on your teeth.
When Can You Get Cosmetic Treatment?
Even if your oral health does not currently allow you to undergo cosmetic procedures, that does not mean you will never qualify for such treatments. Talk to your dentist about your goals, and they will strive to design a plan to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that you can feel good about. Hopefully, you will soon have a strong and glowing grin that you are proud to show off!
Meet the Practice
At Orbis Dental Group, our holistic dentistry team is proud to provide a broad range of services, including restorative and cosmetic care. We enjoy helping patients discover new joy in their smiles, whether it is through improving their oral health or enhancing their appearance. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our San Antonio office at 210-496-1919.