Would you like to improve the way your smile looks? A skilled cosmetic dentist in New Haven can provide treatments to get rid of dental stains, reshape unsightly teeth, and much more. However, before they allow you to undergo treatments that are purely cosmetic in nature, they may require that you take some steps to improve your oral health. In this blog post, you will learn why it is important that your teeth and gums are in good condition before you commit to cosmetic dental treatments.

Cavities and Cosmetic Treatments

A dental cavity, sometimes called a dental cary, is a pit or hole in a tooth. Cavities are the result of a tooth enduring prolonged exposure to plaque and acids. They weaken the teeth and might compromise their ability to support a cosmetic prosthetic, such as a porcelain veneer. Fortunately, addressing cavities is usually quite simple. You might just need a tooth-colored filling to stop the decay.

Gum Disease and Your Smile’s Aesthetics

According to some estimates, about half of adults in the U.S. suffer from some degree of gum disease. In fact, for some patients, gum disease is part of the reason why they are unhappy with the appearance of their smile. This condition can cause the gums to appear red and swollen. It can also contribute to gum recession and persistent bad breath. Therefore, it only makes sense for image-conscious individuals to seek gum disease treatment.

It is also noteworthy that cosmetic treatments and gum disease do not work well together. For example, veneers can make gum disease more difficult to treat, while teeth whitening can irritate tooth roots that have been exposed by gum recession.

The Importance of Habits

Following your cosmetic treatments, it is imperative that you stick to excellent daily habits. Doing so will protect your new look and play a role in preventing future oral health problems. You will need to thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and make wise decisions about food. It is best to have such habits in place even before your cosmetic procedures. If you would like some personalized tips on how to care for your teeth at home, your dentist or dental hygienist would be pleased to assist you.

Restorative Dentistry Can Improve Your Teeth’s Aesthetics

Do not be discouraged if your dentist informs you that you need some restorative treatment before you can have your desired cosmetic procedure. Your restorative service may do much to improve your teeth’s appearance on its own! For example, all-porcelain crowns can both protect damaged teeth andcover their imperfections, while tooth replacement can both enhance your dental function and fill in unattractive gaps.

Cosmetic dentistry is a wonderful way to improve the appearance of teeth and gums — but it is best suited for individuals whose oral health is already sound.

Meet the Practice

New Haven Dental Group has four offices throughout our county. The four dentists are our New Haven location are proud to provide a comprehensive range of restorative and cosmetic services. To learn how they can help you improve the health and/or appearance of your smile, contact us at 203-941-6619.