Keep Your Smile Picture Perfect
11/07/2007
By Dr. Steven Goldy
A beautiful new smile can pay off in terms of improved social relationships and career prospects. However, to keep your cosmetic dental work looking its best may require special maintenance. Some procedures that work well on natural teeth can in fact be detrimental to cosmetically enhanced teeth. So make sure you are familiar with the do’s and don’ts of maintaining your beautiful new smile.
Here's your list for home care:
- If you have porcelain veneers do not consume large amounts of alcohol. Frequent consumption will dissolve bonding that holds the porcelain to the tooth. Within a few years you can completely ruin the cosmetic dental work. The same goes for mouthwash that contains alcohol – read the ingredients.
- Find a gentle toothpaste that’s not too abrasive
- Only use a soft toothbrush. If you prefer an electric brush consult with your dentist as to which type. (We recommend the ‘Rotadent’ toothbrush)
- Don’t be tempted to use your teeth as a tool. No more biting into pens or hard objects. Of course nail biting is out of the question!
- If you play any contact sports make sure you use a mouth guard
- Brush and floss every day – but do it carefully. You can still get decay in the parts of your teeth not covered by porcelain or composites. Take good care of your teeth and protect your smile
- Keep your fingers out of the cookie jar! Scientific studies show that between-meal snacking is the single biggest factor in tooth decay – just look at it as an added bonus in looking your best!
If you have had extensive bonding work frequent professional maintenance is the answer. Have your teeth cleaned two to four times a year by a hygienist skilled in bonding maintenance to help protect your smile and make it last longer. Certain type of stain may build up where the bonding meets your tooth.
Have your teeth periodically examined (annually) by your cosmetic dentist. Bite wing x-rays should be taken every 12 to 18 months; and a full mouth series every 3 to 5 years.
Porcelain veneers will wear as well as, or better than, your natural teeth. The bond between the porcelain and the tooth is very strong, but regular professional maintenance is needed. That being said it is always better to be safe than sorry. Use caution when biting directly into a hard food. (Have you ever encountered those pretzels that are hard as a rock?)
If there is the any indication that you are grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), make sure you have a proper night guard fabricated by your dentist. The store bought, boil-and-bite type of guard will not do the job!
Once you’ve completed your cosmetic dentistry treatment it pays dividends to keep that beautiful smile in perfect condition.
Author Bio:
Dr. Steven Goldy, DDS is a cosmetic dentist practicing in Beverly Hills. His approach to cosmetic dentistry is founded in his belief that everyone deserves to have the best possible oral health and a confident smile. You can reach Dr. Goldy at 310 550 1511. His office is located at 415 N. Bedford Center in Beverly Hills, California. http://www.stevengoldydds.com/
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