Undergoing a smile makeover is a great way to enhance your overall look. This article discusses a few essential general dentistry techniques for maintaining a healthy smile after a smile makeover. If essential oral health care measures are not followed, the benefits will not last long.
How to maintain the results of a smile makeover
The oral care measures to take after a smile makeover include:
Develop a good oral hygiene routine
Brushing and flossing regularly are essential for excellent dental health. Patients are advised to brush twice a day at the very least. This will ensure the smile makeover treatment's effects last longer. It is also essential to see the dentist twice a year. This enables the dentist to keep track of the health of the teeth and conduct a thorough tooth cleaning to remove stubborn stains.
Avoid chewing on hard objects
Whether the teeth have been veneered, filled with dental bonding, or have porcelain crowns, this is good advice to follow. Patients should avoid biting on hard meals since this may harm the restoration work that has been done on their teeth. Teeth may be harmed by chewing on pencils, fingernails, or opening bags with the teeth. A single bite on a hard object may cause the tooth to fracture or chip.
Eat a healthy diet
Patients should avoid excessive consumption of sodas, alcohol, sugar, and acidic foods. These choices may jeopardize oral health and alter the outcome of a smile makeover. Fruits and vegetables, calcium-rich foods, and complex carbs are all healthier options.
Get a mouthguard to prevent teeth grinding
Teeth grinding during sleep may cause harm to your dental work. The grinding motion generates too much force on the teeth. Patients should speak to their dentist about obtaining a nightguard if they think they are grinding their teeth. When playing contact sports, a mouthguard may help protect the teeth, as well.
Reduce teeth-staining foods and beverages
Blueberries and other highly pigmented foods, as well as wine, coffee, black tea, and other strongly pigmented drinks, can cause teeth discoloration. Patients need to limit the consumption of certain meals and beverages, and if feasible, sip via a straw to avoid direct contact with the teeth. Brush or rinse the teeth with water as soon as possible after drinking or eating these meals.
Quit smoking and tobacco products
Smoking will eventually render the smile makeover treatments ineffective. The habit discolors teeth and jeopardizes dental health in that it causes gum disease and tooth decay. It is recommended that patients stop smoking, or else the time and money invested in the treatment will be wasted.
Visit the dentist regularly
Regular dental visits (at least twice a year) are essential after a smile makeover procedure. The dentist will undertake a complete cleaning and polish the teeth during the visit to remove surface stains. The visit also allows them to track any changes in the smile. The dentist will be able to spot any problems with the teeth and restore the patient's smile as early as possible with regular checkups.
Beyond the cosmetic makeover
A smile makeover may have a significant impact on a patient's overall dental health in addition to the aesthetic benefits. Other dental concerns might arise while men and women are dealing with particular tooth troubles. For example, teeth that are misaligned or overlapping might be difficult to maintain. Since flossing is not always easy, food and plaque may become stuck between the teeth, leading to cavities or, worse still, gum disease.
Teeth may become misaligned because of a patient's missing teeth, which can impact the patient's overall bite. Other dental issues, such as tooth decay and cavities, may also be caused by damaged or fractured teeth. As a result, having a smile makeover may enhance one's general oral health and lessen the likelihood of expensive future dental issues.
Keeping the teeth and gums healthy can help maintain the benefits of the smile makeover treatment. Since dental insurance does not cover all aesthetic procedures, it is important to practice good oral care and ensure that the time and money spent are not wasted. Patients who have struggled with their smile appearance and lack the self-confidence to smile or participate in particular social settings might benefit greatly from a smile makeover.
Final note
A smile makeover is a great method to improve the appearance of your smile, but you must take care of your teeth to ensure that the effects last longer and that your smile remains bright and attractive. If you are interested in a smile makeover, schedule an appointment with our dental office. You will be able to discuss your objectives and decide the best alternatives for you during the consultation.
Request an appointment or call Fort Lauderdale Dental Studio at (954) 462-5252 for an appointment in our Fort Lauderdale office.