Habits To Avoid After Your Smile Makeover

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://drjosephmurray.com or call J.D. Murray DDS & Associates at (404) 762-5770 for an appointment in our East Point office.

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