Thinking about whitening your teeth, getting veneers, or straightening your smile with clear aligners? Your dentist can help! But before you jump in your car, there’s something you should check—your gums. If your mouth is showing signs of gum disease, you may need treatment before moving forward with any cosmetic work. But what do your gums have to do with cosmetic treatment? Continue reading to learn why good oral health is essential for your dream smile.
Why Healthy Gums Matter for Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth, but your gums are what hold everything neatly in place. If your gums are inflamed, receding, or infected, they can thwart the success of your treatment.
For example:
- Veneers and crowns rely on healthy gum tissue to fit properly.
- Teeth whitening can cause irritation to inflamed gums.
- Clear aligners are less effective if gum disease has caused bone loss.
So, gum disease isn’t just bothersome because it compromises the aesthetics of your smile, it’s a serious oral health condition. And if left untreated, it can lead to unstable results and even tooth loss.
How Do You Know When You Need Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease can be hard to catch at first, especially if you don’t see your dentist regularly. However, there are warning signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer.
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite.
If you notice any of these symptoms, your dentist will likely recommend restoring your gum health before moving forward with cosmetic procedures.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
The type of treatment you need depends on how advanced your gum disease is. Mild cases (gingivitis) can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved at-home care. But once the condition has progressed to periodontitis, it will require professional treatment to manage the symptoms.
Scaling and root planing is one of the most popular and effective methods to help restore gum health. It’s a deep cleaning process that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline before smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach while preventing excessive plaque buildup.
Can You Still Get Cosmetic Dentistry if You’ve Had Gum Disease in the Past?
Yes! Once your gum health is under control, you can safely move forward with cosmetic treatments. In fact, treating gum disease first helps ensure that your results last longer and look better!
A stunning smile starts with a healthy foundation. So, if you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, talk to your dentist about your gum health first. Addressing any issues now can save you time, money, and headaches in the future. Just remember—no gums, no glory!
About the Practice
Dr. Malcolm J. Murray and Dr. Ahmed Saadoon are your friendly and passionate dental team at MJM Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Together they provide treatment for a wide range of dental issues from cavities to gum disease. If you need a healthier or brighter smile, they can create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a glowing grin. Call (703) 934-5540 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with us or visit our website to learn more.
