You’ve had it with damaged and discolored teeth making your teeth look dingy and making you look older than you really are. You’re finally ready to get your oral health control, but not so fast. Before you start dreaming of a white smile, if you have untreated periodontal disease (gum disease) you need to prioritize your healing first. Here’s why it’s so important to address your oral health problems before undergoing any cosmetic dental procedures.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease occurs when the gums become infected with the bacteria that accumulates on the teeth due to poor brushing and flossing habits. If left untreated, it can cause a number of dangerous side effects including gum loss, tooth loss, and even jawbone loss.
How is Periodontal Disease Treated?
There are multiple ways to treat periodontal disease, depending on how severe of an infection you have. In some cases, you may need a bone graft procedure to restore the jawbone, especially if you are planning to get dental implants. You may also need a gum graft to help replace any infected tissue or recession.
Why Do I Need to Treat Periodontal Disease Before Getting a Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure?
When you have periodontal disease, you are at risk of losing your teeth and gums, so clearing this up is of paramount importance. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend money on veneers only to lose those teeth shortly after. Furthermore, veneers can make it harder to find cavities, so ensuring that your teeth are healthy and cavity free prior to your procedure will prevent any issues from worsening.
When Can I Get My Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure?
Once your dentist has assessed your teeth and treated any issues such as cavities and periodontal disease, you will likely get the green light for your cosmetic procedures. Your dentist will want to be sure that your periodontal disease has stopped advancing and that your teeth and gums are healed enough to safely proceed. Then, and only then, will you be given the go-ahead to get your new smile underway.
It’s understandable to be eager to get started on your smile makeover, but as the old saying goes “only fools rush in.” Be sure to allow your dentist time to correct any periodontal disease or infections before undergoing cosmetic dentistry. This will ensure that your new look will last as long as possible and that you will be satisfied with the results for years to come.
About Our Practice
Dr. Dory Stutman and Dr. Khalida Stutman are two of Long Island’s premier dentists, offering a variety of dental treatments from general dentistry to restorations and cosmetic procedures like veneers. Together with the rest of the team at South Shore Dental Care, they strive to deliver beautiful results in a caring, compassionate, judgement-free atmosphere.
To start the cosmetic dentistry process, visit our website for an appointment or call us at 516-798-3808.