You may feel excited about the prospect of transforming your smile with cosmetic dental treatments. Whether you wish to address stains or chips, or you desire a complete smile makeover, cosmetic dentistry offers many possibilities. However, it is important that you prioritize your smile’s health over its appearance. That might mean that you have to get gum disease treatment before you move forward with any cosmetic services. What is gum disease, and why is it so important that it is well-managed? This blog post explains.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support and surround your teeth. This condition begins with plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that accumulates on your teeth. If you do not remove plaque with regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can spread below the gumline and cause inflammation.
There are two primary stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The initial stage, which involves gum inflammation and relatively mild symptoms.
- Periodontitis: The advanced stage, which can result in damage to the bone and the supporting structures of your teeth.
The Impact of Gum Disease on Your Smile
Gum disease can devastate your oral health, but it can also have some significant aesthetic consequences:
- Receding gums: Your teeth may appear longer and less aesthetically pleasing.
- Redness and swelling: Inflamed and discolored gums can create an unhealthy look.
- Tooth loss: Missing teeth may create gaps and disrupt your smile’s harmony.
- Persistent bad breath: Chronic halitosis can affect your self-confidence.
While gum disease treatment is not categorized as cosmetic, it will help prevent or minimize these aesthetic concerns. Therefore, you can view it as a win for both your health and appearance!
The Rewards of Treating Gum Disease Before Cosmetic Dentistry
Making sure your gums are healthy before you get cosmetic services comes with some significant benefits:
- Strong foundation: Healthy gums provide the stability needed for cosmetic procedures, such as veneers, crowns, and even dental implants.
- Reduced risk of complications: Treating gum disease first minimizes the chance of problems during and after your procedures.
- Durable results: Proper gum health ensures that your cosmetic enhancements last as long as possible.
Your gums are an important part of your smile! Talk to your dentist about your gum health so you can have a realistic idea of how to achieve your ideal look.
Meet the Practice
At Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut, our team offers a range of cosmetic services, including veneers, teeth whitening, and more. We also prioritize our patients’ oral health, and we offer effective forms of gum disease treatment. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our East Hartford office at 860-288-5786.