Request Request Appointment Like Us Like us on Facebook Reviews Read Our Reviews Call Give us a Call Map View our Map
Coronavirus: keeping you safe in our office

Cosmetic Question: Why Do I Need a Clean Mouth First?

December 15, 2024

Filed under: Uncategorized — drgoodman @ 3:27 pm
Closeup of woman undergoing dental exam

Did you know that aesthetic imperfections in your smile can impact your appearance as well as your dental health? For example, chips and cracks allow bacteria to penetrate your enamel and cause problems on top of feeling self-conscious about your reflection.

Fortunately, your dentist can provide one or several cosmetic services to perfect your grin, boosting your confidence and improving your oral condition. However, before proceeding with any elected treatment, they must examine your mouth to ensure no existing issues interfere with the results. Continue reading to learn 3 reasons you need a clean mouth before undergoing cosmetic dentistry!

Concern #1: Tooth Decay

Cavities form when unhealthy bacteria in your mouth work with acids from the foods you eat to erode your enamel. If you think your mouth must be healthy because you haven’t seen any tooth decay, you may need to reconsider! You might have developed issues in areas that are difficult to see, like behind your molars or between your teeth.

Fortunately, your dentist takes the time to inspect your teeth for caries prior to beginning a cosmetic procedure to avoid causing any harm. For instance, applying professional-grade whitening gel over tooth decay can cause severe discomfort. Other options, like porcelain veneers and dental bonding, rely on healthy underlying teeth to remain in place. As a result, your provider needs to fill in any cavities before continuing with your chosen treatment.

Concern #2: Gum Disease

Gum disease is another common issue which must be addressed before undergoing cosmetic dentistry. If you don’t consistently brush and floss to clear plaque away from your teeth and gumline, germs can penetrate the connective tissues and cause an infection. If it progresses enough, your gums start to retract from your enamel to avoid the disease.

This can cause issues if you have certain restorations in place, like veneers, that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to mask imperfections. These thin shells are carefully designed to fit the dimensions of your pearly whites, and retracting gums can expose their seam and destabilize the bonding that holds them in place.

Concern #3: Maintenance

Cosmetic dental services are intended to improve your appearance more than your dental health, so many insurance companies don’t cover them. That means you’ll likely be personally responsible for the cost of your treatment. Caring for your smile correctly after your procedure can help you maintain your results, so it’s important to establish healthy habits sooner rather than later.

If you don’t already, you should brush and floss twice daily to keep your grin happy and healthy. It’s also wise to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning with your dentist every six months so they can monitor your condition. This allows them to catch and address any areas of concern, like thinning enamel or bleeding gums, before they can progress into more serious issues.

If you’re unsure whether you’re a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your provider!

About the Practice

Patients at Goodman Dental Care benefit from a father-son duo who are committed to helping you build a beautiful, healthy smile. Drs. Gary and Jeremy Goodman share 45+ years of combined experience providing a full array of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including cosmetic dentistry. They combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance your comfort while delivering accurate results intended to last. If you’re frustrated by imperfections in your grin, you can request an appointment on the website or call (410) 263-1919.

No Comments

No comments yet.

RSS feed for comments on this post.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.