Your smile is one of the first things people see about you, especially when you start talking to other people. For this reason, it is normal for individuals with smile-related issues to start feeling self-conscious about their smile and, later on, their self-esteem to suffer.
Other than the aesthetic benefits, there are also functional aspects to having a good set of teeth. It helps you eat, chew and speak better.
Fortunately for patients, cosmetic dentistry has evolved, with many treatment options for various smile concerns. Your dentist does the job in the clinic, but once you’re home, you have to do your part to keep your teeth well-groomed and cared for.
With that said, here are some dentist-approved tips to help you take care of your new teeth.
1. Visit a plastic surgeon regularly
With or without a cosmetic dental procedure, dentists still recommend that their patients visit their office once every six months for a cleaning. Also during these routine check-ups, the dentist can determine if further work needs to be done.
Those who undergo cosmetic dentistry should follow the same time frame. Visiting your cosmetic dentist Dr. Patel twice a year is a proactive approach to checking that your new teeth are healthy and in good condition. If any problem is caught early, the dentist can treat and treat it before it develops.
2. Avoid dark foods and drinks
Drink coffee, tea, wine, alcohol and other dark beverages and food in moderation. If this is not possible for you, you can use a pipette to reduce the time the liquid is in contact with your teeth.
Dark foods and drinks are the main cause of teeth stains when consumed in large quantities and frequently. You don’t want these stains to ruin the look of your new teeth. Tobacco products can also damage your teeth, which can stain them and cause gum disease.
If you eat or drink dark food, make it a habit to rinse it after every meal, so the water can wash away all the residue that might cause stains.
3. Practice daily oral hygiene
Even without a cosmetic dental procedure, it is essential to practice daily oral hygiene. This becomes even more important when you have just had cosmetic surgery. It doesn’t take much effort to keep it well maintained, as long as you have a strong foundation of daily oral hygiene habits.
Brush your teeth two to three times daily, especially at night before bed. Daily flossing also reduces discoloration and plaque buildup on the teeth.
4. Avoid smoking
Smoking is as bad for your teeth as it is for your overall health. Doctors do not ignore the extent of the damage that smoking can cause. So, if this is a habit you’re used to, it might be a good idea to start at least reducing the frequency of smoking.
Smoking, in particular, can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums. Even if these issues are treated, you may have to undergo repeated dental treatments if you don’t quit smoking.
5. Avoid sugary foods and drinks
Like colorful foods and drinks, sugary foods and drinks are okay unless consumed in moderation. Sugar is acidic, which makes it an ideal breeding ground for oral bacteria. Tooth decay damages it, and the effects can be visible to others.
It would not be wise to spend money on your new teeth only to have them rot and decay prematurely from all the sugary foods and drinks you consume. If you’ve had too much sugar in a meal, rinse it off with water so you don’t give it time to settle on your teeth.
Instead, choose sweet foods and drinks made with artificial sugar or sweeteners such as aspartame or stevia. It does not have the same acidic effect as regular sugar and will not contribute to tooth decay.
6. Be gentle when brushing your teeth
Brushing two to three times daily is the dentist-recommended frequency to keep your teeth in good condition. However, it is not only the frequency that matters but also how you brush your teeth.
Be as gentle as possible with your teeth. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush so it doesn’t cause brush marks on your teeth or damage your gums. Ask your dentist about any toothpaste they might recommend, especially now that you’ve just finished a cosmetic procedure.
Final thoughts
A smile makeover through cosmetic dentistry is an excellent way to improve and restore the appearance of your teeth. It can be expensive, but if you are in the hands of a good dentist, it is a life-changing procedure that can positively affect your self-esteem and confidence.
Remember, however, that the success of a cosmetic dental procedure depends on good aftercare, so this is something you need to do. The tips above can help you take a proactive approach so your new smile lasts.