Many dentists offer a variety of cosmetic procedures intended to enhance your smile and help you look and feel like the most confident, beautiful version of yourself. But before proceeding, they must examine your mouth to ensure no pre-existing concerns, such as gum disease, can detract from the results.
You might think your mouth is healthy if you haven’t noticed issues with your teeth or gums, but it’s possible to develop a hidden issue and be unaware. Continue reading to learn why it’s essential for your provider to improve your oral health before administering cosmetic services!
How Does Gum Health Affect Cosmetic Dentistry?
If you’re feeling self-conscious about dental imperfections, such as stubborn stains, chips, cracks, or mild misalignments, it’s only natural to want to undergo one or more dental services to improve your appearance as soon as possible. However, your dentist will need to examine your mouth to devise a customized treatment plan based on your current dental condition and help you achieve your smile goals.
But if they find signs of periodontal infection, it must be addressed before applying cosmetics or it could interfere with the outcome. For instance, veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are customized to match your teeth and then are cemented over their front surfaces to mask flaws. But if your gums start receding due to progressive disease, the covers lose the anchor holding them in place and can fail.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, can sometimes be halted and reversed by improving your at-home dental hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing both morning and night can go a long way towards boosting your periodontal health.
But if your condition has already progressed, you’ll require professional intervention. Most dentists offer a two-part deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing. During your first visit, they will clear away even the most stubborn plaque, tartar, and bacterial buildup by reaching deeply into the pockets of your gums with special dental instruments. Then, once you’ve recovered, they’ll schedule a second visit to gently smooth your enamel to discourage additional deposits from forming.
How Do I Know if I Need Gum Disease Treatment?
Not everyone will require pre-treatment before undergoing cosmetics, but you might already have developed a problem if you notice the following symptoms:
- Dark red connective tissues.
- Bleeding when you brush or floss.
- Chronic bad breath, or halitosis.
- Pain when biting down or chewing.
- Prolonged sensitivity.
- Receding gumline.
- Bite or dental misalignments.
If you’re still unsure whether you’ll require additional services before proceeding with your chosen procedures, you can find out by scheduling an appointment with your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Prakash Gadhiya is a passionate provider with over 10 years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the NYU College of Dentistry, and today, works diligently to provide a comprehensive menu of services, including cosmetic procedures and gum disease treatment, to meet your unique needs under one roof. You can request a consultation on the website or by calling the office at (214) 308-5359.