You Need a Healthy Mouth Before Getting Cosmetic Dentistry — Why?

A bright, confident smile has the potential to transform the way you interact with others, boost your mood, and leave a powerful lasting impression. Are you considering getting cosmetic dentistry to achieve your aesthetic goals? If so, you must understand that the journey begins well before you schedule treatments like whitening or veneers. The true foundation of every stunning smile is excellent oral health. In this blog post, you will learn why your mouth should be healthy before you move forward with any procedures that are purely cosmetic in nature.

Why Oral Health Matters Before Cosmetic Dentistry

A healthy mouth greatly increases the chances that aesthetic services will provide beautiful, lasting results. In contrast, cosmetic treatments placed on unhealthy teeth or compromised gums often lead to disappointing results and potential complications.

For example, cavities and infections are obstacles that can stand in the way of your goals. Veneers, bonding, or other restorations placed on teeth that are decayed or structurally unsound tend to fail prematurely. Whitening treatments performed on teeth with active decay may lead to painful sensitivity.

Gum disease poses another significant risk. When left unchecked, it can cause teeth to loosen or even fall out, thereby negating any benefit you might receive from cosmetic procedures.

Indeed, the bottom line is that reaching your aesthetic goals might be impossible if you do not first tend to your oral health!

A Healthy Mouth Is More Beautiful

While you might be disappointed to learn that you need some restorative care before your cosmetic journey starts in earnest, you should not feel too downhearted. After all, improving your oral health could also have big benefits for your appearance!

For example, healthy gums appear firm and pink, creating an attractive frame for your teeth. Restorations like crowns and fillings, which can be made of tooth-colored materials, repair damaged teeth, enhancing both their function and appearance. Consistent oral care habits, including brushing and flossing, help maintain brightness and reduce staining, giving you a more radiant smile every day.

When Can You Undergo Cosmetic Procedures?

Even if your oral health is not ideal, that does not mean you can never get cosmetic procedures. Indeed, you may be surprised by how quickly you reach your aesthetic goals! Your dentist will design a treatment plan that accounts for both your oral health and your appearance. Depending on the beginning state of your mouth, transforming your smile could take weeks or months. Be patient, and hopefully, you will soon have a strong, healthy, and absolutely gorgeous set of teeth!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Corey Martinez is a highly accomplished dentist who is an active member of multiple prestigious organizations, including the American Dental Association, the Indiana Dental Association, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Under his leadership, our team offers a broad range of restorative and cosmetic services. If you are ready to unlock your smile’s potential, contact our Indianapolis office at 317-846-3431.