Cosmetic dentistry can give you the smile you’ve always wanted, whether through veneers, whitening, crowns, or dental implants. But before you can enjoy those life-changing results, your dentist may recommend addressing one very important foundation of your smile: your gums. If gum disease is present, it often needs to be treated before moving forward with cosmetic dental work. Here’s why.
Why Healthy Gums Matter
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your teeth, but your gums play an equally important role in how your smile looks and functions. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Early stages (gingivitis) may cause redness, swelling, and bleeding, while advanced stages (periodontitis) can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
If cosmetic work is placed over unhealthy gums, the results may not only look unnatural but also fail to last. For example, veneers or crowns can loosen if gums continue to recede, and dental implants cannot succeed without strong, healthy bone and tissue to support them.
Cosmetic Work on Unhealthy Gums Is Risky
Imagine investing in whitening treatments, only to have gum inflammation make your smile appear uneven. Or consider veneers placed over teeth while untreated gum disease continues to progress—soon, the edges of the veneers may become visible due to gum recession. In advanced cases, cosmetic results could be completely undone if teeth loosen or fall out.
Cosmetic procedures are meant to enhance a stable, healthy foundation. Skipping gum disease treatment before cosmetic work is like painting a house while the foundation is crumbling—it might look good for a little while, but problems will show up quickly.
What Gum Disease Treatment Involves
The good news is that gum disease can often be managed or reversed, depending on its stage. Common treatments include:
- Professional cleaning or scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gumline.
- Antibiotic therapy: Medication to reduce harmful bacteria.
- Laser therapy or surgery (in advanced cases): To restore gum health and regenerate lost tissue or bone.
By completing gum disease treatment first, you’re ensuring your mouth is stable and ready for long-lasting cosmetic improvements.
Long-Term Benefits of Treating Gum Disease First
Not only does gum disease treatment protect your cosmetic investment, but it also improves your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Treating it early means you’re not just preparing for a beautiful smile—you’re protecting your entire body.
If you’re considering cosmetic dental work, your dentist will likely evaluate the health of your gums first. Treating gum disease before moving forward is essential for creating results that are not only beautiful but also durable. By addressing gum health as a priority, you’ll set the stage for a smile that looks amazing and lasts for years to come.
About the Practice
Looking for a glow-up for your smile? Whether it’s discoloration, chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth, Dolan Dental can provide a cosmetic service to resolve your issues. We provide services like natural-looking, long-lasting veneers, multiple options for teeth whitening, fully personalized smile makeovers, and more! Dr. Brendan Dolan and Dr. Riley Gionfriddo and our expert team would be happy to serve you. Just schedule an appointment online or call our Wethersfield office at (860) 529-2000.