You can’t wait to enhance your smile with cosmetic dentistry – or at least, you don’t want to wait. No one can blame you for that; cosmetic dentistry treatments are top-notch these days, and well worth the excitement.
However, if you have an existing oral health condition, there’s good reason for you to pump the brakes. Here’s why you should take care of your teeth before starting your cosmetic dental appointment.
The Impact of Gum Disease
Gum disease can be an alarming oral health condition that targets – you guessed it – your gums. Often, a patient’s gums will become red and swollen. They might even experience a toothache or two. If left untreated, gum disease can advance to gingivitis and weaken your soft oral tissue until there’s simply not enough support for your teeth.
In other words, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Even treatments that involve adhering a cosmetic to your teeth, such as porcelain veneers or Lumineers, will be negatively impacted if your teeth start to fall out!
Tooth Decay Complications
You might be more familiar with a common effect of tooth decay: cavities. Harmful oral bacteria produce an acid that eats away at dental enamel, which is why when there’s excessive bacteria build up in your mouth, you might find a hole in your tooth.
Some misleading information you might come across on the internet can make it seem like certain dental cosmetics are unaffected by tooth decay. This is true only in a technical sense. Veneers, Lumineers, metal-free restorations, and dental bonding can’t decay, but what remains of the natural tooth underneath can. If your pearly whites develop cavities, your cosmetics could become loose or damaged!
Talk to Your Dentist to See if The Time is Right
Although oral conditions like tooth decay and gum disease often come with uncomfortable symptoms, it’s not always obvious that your teeth are in poor shape. That’s why it’s important to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll evaluate your mouth for red flags and, if they notice potential problems, help you receive treatment so your condition doesn’t compromise your dental cosmetics.
To promote successful, long-lasting dental cosmetics and enjoy your smile to the fullest, it’s best to wait until your teeth are healthy to proceed with cosmetic dentistry!
About the Dentist
Dr. Alberto Lamberti has a decade of experience helping people build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, where he remained to complete a Fellowship in Implant Dentistry. Now, he offers a comprehensive array of services to meet all your dental needs. He combines a caring approach with state-of-the-art technology to provide lifelike restorations to rebuild your smile. You can request an appointment on the website or call (561) 430-2705.