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Stop Smoking Before You Visit Your Cosmetic Dentist in Southlake

May 29, 2018

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: — drpettigrew @ 1:57 am

broken cigaretteWhen you look in the mirror, does your focus instantly turn to your imperfect teeth? You are not alone. In fact, it is estimated that more than one-fourth of adults do not like smiling due to the appearance of their teeth. To get your dream smile, your cosmetic dentist in Southlake offers the services you need; however, if you smoke, your options may be limited. Tobacco use in any form not only lowers your body’s ability to heal and fight infections, but it can also compromise the results of your procedures.

Smoking and Your Oral Health

You know that smoking is bad for your body, but did you know that it is also bad for your mouth? Not only does it increase your risk for oral cancer, but tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth discoloration. Each of these issues will not just impact the health of your teeth and gums, but their appearance as well. To restore a beautiful smile, you want to visit your dentist in Southlake for cosmetic services; however, you may need to break your smoking habit first.

Smoking and Cosmetic Dentistry

Smoking can limit the procedures that your dentist can use to improve your smile. In some cases, it can even decrease the quality of the results. If you are still smoking when you visit your dentist, do not be surprised to find restrictions to certain procedures, such as:

Teeth Whitening

To brighten your smile that has become dulled by tobacco use, professional teeth whitening treatments can help. While it can get your teeth several shades whiter, if you are still smoking, you will not maintain the results. Your teeth will become discolored once again if you do not stop the habit. If you do choose to have a whitening treatment, it is best to avoid smoking for at least 48 hours after the procedure when your teeth are the most susceptible to stains.

Direct Bonding

Direct bonding is a simple and effective way to fix chipped or cracked teeth. A composite resin material is used to sculpt the teeth into a more attractive shape. Unfortunately, the material can stain. As a result, continuing to use tobacco after the treatment can cause the bonding to darken.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are commonly used to replace missing teeth because they are over 95% successful. They will closely look and feel like your natural teeth while offering a long-term solution. Their success relies on your body’s ability to heal and fight infections. As a result, if you smoke you may not be a candidate because tobacco compromises your immune system.

Restore Your Smile

If you are ready to invest in your smile with cosmetic dentistry, it is best to stop smoking first. Not only will you promote the health of your mouth and body, but you will also help to protect your investment in your new smile.

About Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew

Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew is dedicated to helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. With several hours of continued education, he offers the cosmetic services you need to improve the appearance of your teeth. If you are ready to transform your smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.

 

 

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