For individuals longing for a more beautiful set of teeth, a smile makeover can help improve appearance and boost confidence. While some procedures may take several visits to complete, others produce results in just one appointment. However, patients need to be aware of the changes that are necessary to keep the improvements in top condition. Understanding the different options available to patients and how to properly care for recent dental work can help keep a transformed smile looking its best.
Types of smile makeovers
Using a variety of dental cosmetic and repair procedures, a dentist can remove stains, reshape a tooth, improve bite formation and even replace missing teeth. Some of the most common methods include
- Implants, crowns and bridges
- Whitening treatments
- Veneers
- Alignment procedures
A dental professional will likely recommend a treatment plan based on the patient's lifestyle, medical history and preferences. Once the work is complete, it is vital for patients to develop healthy dental routines and practices.
Protecting and caring for a new smile
Those who receive a smile makeover may need to make several lifestyle changes to keep the teeth and gums healthy and beautiful. Patients should be especially attentive to areas of the mouth that have received recent treatment.
Breaking bad habits
In general, it is important to avoid food and drink that can stain teeth or tooth coverings in order to maintain a whiter smile. Sodas, coffee, tea and red wine should be avoided, as well as foods and beverages containing artificial dyes and colors. Deeply pigmented natural foods, such as berries and pomegranates, should be enjoyed in moderation, followed immediately with rinsing, brushing and flossing. For health and aesthetic purposes, tobacco should be completely avoided.
Patients who find themselves habitually chewing on hard or non-edible objects should take steps to break this unhealthy habit. Not only can it damage dental work, but it can also wear down and break the healthy, natural teeth that remain. In addition, chewing on fingernails or pens can bring higher volumes of unhealthy bacteria into the body. To protect a smile makeover, patients should also stop chewing ice, avoid hard or crunchy foods and only chew gum occasionally to prevent fatigue and potential damage.
Clenching and grinding teeth should be addressed in order to protect the teeth and jaw from pain and injury. A night guard worn while sleeping may help solve the problem. Some patients may also need assistance managing stress and anxiety to break the habit. It is critical to address this issue in order to protect recent dental work and prevent future damage.
Proper cleaning and care
A healthy oral care routine is vital when caring for a smile makeover. Patients should be mindful and use only the products recommended by a dentist to prevent damage or discoloration to treatment areas. As always, all individuals should brush and floss twice a day for optimum health and appearance.
Conclusion
For those with missing, discolored or misshapen teeth, a smile makeover is often an appropriate solution. Patients who schedule dental work should avoid behaviors that can ruin a new smile. Good habits and proper cleaning can help keep teeth healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Request an appointment here: https://albuquerquedentaldesign.com or call Family & Cosmetic Dental Design at (505) 359-2289 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Smile Makeover in Albuquerque, NM.
Recent Posts
Composite bonding is one of the many treatments that might be used as part of your smile makeover. The procedure is often used to fix cosmetic problems such as discolored, cracked or chipped teeth. Dental bonding involves applying composite resin to the affected tooth to restore or improve its appearance.Composite bonding is a versatile treatment…
If you have a damaged tooth, perhaps due to trauma or infection, the dentist will work with you to choose the proper smile makeover plan to adjust your smile. The goal is to restore the function of the teeth while making them cosmetically appealing. The treatment strategy will meet your specific needs and achieve the…
Considering choosing a general dentist to perform your smile makeover? Smart. Many people think making over their smile will look for a cosmetic dentist to complete their makeover, not understanding that some general dentists are an option, too. Making a consultation appointment is the first step to determining which smile makeover options a general dentist…
Patients consider a smile makeover for many different reasons. Sometimes it can be replacing missing teeth or changing the shape and size of the teeth. In other cases, patients are interested in correcting alignment issues. Common complaints include the front teeth not being centered in the smile, spaces between teeth and crowding of teeth. These…