You may have recently had veneers placed over discolored teeth, allowing you to flash a gleaming smile for the first time in decades.
You may have worked closely with us to straighten your teeth with Invisalign transparent trays, after a lifetime of embarrassment.
Or perhaps you decided to fill gaps and replace old dental work with a full set of the best implants that would give you not only long-lasting periodontal health with proper care, but provide a natural facelift.
The last thing you want to do is let your smile makeover go under by because of poor aftercare habits. Dentistry is the one medical specialty that is an equal collaboration between patient and doctor to create the ideal outcome. It is only human to become less diligent once you’ve achieved your big cosmetic dental goals (just as the effects of most weight loss programs don’t tend to last). Here are some reminders to post by where you brush and floss:
Be thorough about brushing and flossing after dinner
It’s tempting to do a quickie job of cleaning your teeth before bedtime (and avoid snacks afterwards). You’re tired and you might commit to doing a better job tomorrow, which makes it easy to make further excuses until your sins catch up with you at your next dental hygiene treatment. Also, change your toothbrush every few months to keep that smile gleaming.
Have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year
No matter how dedicated you are about brushing twice a day and flossing once, the tools and training of the hygienist allow her to do a better job of cleaning. Any periodontal disease can be nipped in the bud and avoid having your makeover require a do-over.
Have a digital x-ray once a year
Your dentist can only see the surface of the teeth and gums and probing only reveals a bit more. Low-radiation digital x-rays allow us to make sure your jaw is not losing bone and undermining your dental work.
Keep your pearlies white
If you smoke, maintaining your beautiful smile is another reason to quit. If you drink a lot of coffee, tea, and red wine, brush right after. Use a whitening toothpaste and get a whitening by our specialist as needed, taking off eight shades in one hour in the chair. Meantime, avoid strong mouthwashes that can stain.
Maintain a wholesome diet
Eat more whole foods and fewer ones that are sugary, sticky, or hard, which can damage your new smile. Good oral health is intimately related to your overall physical health and appearance.
