You may be concerned about what the recovery process will be like following your cosmetic dentistry procedure. It is imperative to have all the helpful information you need when considering cosmetic procedures such as dental implants or dental veneers.
If you make significant adjustments to your mouth, there is always a recovery period involved. Some cosmetic procedures don’t take long to heal — porcelain dental veneers fall into this category. If you have your veneers placed, you may experience only a bit of sensitivity and some tenderness in your gums afterward.
However, other cosmetic dental processes — like dental implants — are a bit more complicated.
Recovery Times Vary
Recovery time and aftercare are necessary for more complex restorative dentistry procedures, such as dental implants. An implant site may feel tender and sore due to swelling and soreness in the surrounding area of the gums. Over-the-counter pain medications are usually effective, but some cosmetic dentists may prescribe medication for the pain. Implants usually heal completely after six months (due to the staged approach of the treatment).
Long-lasting results are not guaranteed with cosmetic procedures, but they are very possible. You need to maintain your oral health daily to protect your results. Keep your teeth clean and flossed daily to prevent staining and plaque accumulation. Using toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride can strengthen your teeth as well.
Regardless of what cosmetic dentistry procedure is performed, good oral hygiene is always the most important step in the recovery process. In the post-op period, you are at risk of procedure failure if you do not brush, floss, and rinse your teeth properly.
Oral health is as important as physical health. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your dentist’s office.
You should follow all instructions given to you by your dentist after having a dental procedure.
How Should You Take Care of Your Smile?
Be Wary of Certain Food and Drinks
To maintain the brightness of your smile after you have undergone teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, or porcelain veneers, you should avoid (or at least limit) the consumption of dark-colored foods and beverages, such as wine, coffee, chocolate, or tomatoes. Both in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments require this during a short period afterward.
Alternatively, you can eat foods that are colorless, such as cauliflower, mashed potatoes, or white cheese.
Try not to chew on things like ice, popcorn kernels, or pencils. Tooth enamel, porcelain veneers, and crowns are very durable, but they aren’t indestructible. When consistently put under pressure, they can chip, crack, or break.
Stop Smoking
It is possible to leave visible stains on your teeth after smoking or chewing tobacco, even if you have porcelain veneers, which are more stain-resistant than enamel. Getting rid of these unhealthy habits is one of the best ways to keep your smile bright after cosmetic dentistry treatment.
