You finally completed your cosmetic dental treatment. Maybe it was veneers, teeth whitening, or Invisalign. Whatever the treatment, you left the dentist’s office feeling like a new person.
That feeling is priceless. But here is the truth. Your cosmetic results are not permanent unless you take care of them.
At Stonehenge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Raleigh, NC, Dr. Cynthia Elderkin, Dr. Claudel Giggey, and Dr. Olivia Smith want your smile to stay beautiful for years. That is why we are sharing the best ways to maintain your cosmetic treatment.
If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Raleigh, you have come to the right place. Our team has been serving Raleigh families since 1989. We know how to create stunning smiles. And we know how to protect cosmetic results so your investment lasts.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Your first line of defense is regular dental checkups. Visit your dentist at least every six months.
During these visits, your dentist will:
- Perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Examine your cosmetic work for signs of wear or damage
- Check for decay or gum disease that could affect your results
- Answer your questions
Early detection prevents small problems from becoming big ones. Dr. Elderkin, who has been practicing in Raleigh for over 35 years, knows exactly what to look for. She will catch issues before they compromise your smile.
Proper Oral Hygiene at Home
Your daily oral hygiene routine matters. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can scratch porcelain veneers or crowns. Brush for a full two minutes and pay attention to every surface of every tooth.
Floss every day to remove food and plaque from between your teeth. Flossing also keeps your gums healthy. Healthy gums support your cosmetic work.
You can also rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh. Just make sure the mouthwash is safe for your specific cosmetic materials.
These simple habits are the answer to how to maintain cosmetic treatment effectively.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Staining foods and beverages can dull your smile. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas are the biggest culprits. You do not have to give them up completely, but you should be smart about it.
Also, rinse your mouth with water after drinking staining beverages or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. You can brush about 30 minutes after eating (not immediately, as acids can soften enamel)
Also avoid tobacco products entirely. They stain teeth, harm your oral health, and can also damage veneers and crowns.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots can help clean your teeth naturally. They are good for your smile and your overall health.
Protect Your Teeth from Physical Damage
Cosmetic work is strong, but not indestructible. Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities. Dr. Giggey, who played soccer on scholarship at NC State, knows how important this is. A mouthguard protects your teeth from injury and can save you from costly repairs.
Also avoid chewing on hard objects. Ice, pens, popcorn kernels, and fingernails can chip or crack your cosmetic work. Do not use your teeth as tools to open packages. Use scissors instead. These precautions help protect cosmetic results from unnecessary damage.
Be Smart About Whitening
Whitening products can enhance your smile. But they can also harm your cosmetic work. Over-the-counter whitening strips and gels can cause uneven whitening. They may damage the materials used in veneers, crowns, or bonding.
Always consult your dentist before using any whitening product. Dr. Elderkin, Dr. Giggey, or Dr. Smith can recommend safe, effective options. Professional whitening treatments offer the best results. They ensure uniform whitening and protect your cosmetic work.
Address Issues Promptly
Do not ignore problems. If you notice sensitivity, pain, or damage, call us right away. Delaying treatment can make things worse. It can compromise your cosmetic work and lead to more extensive procedures. Early intervention preserves your investment.
Dr. Smith, a UNC graduate, is known for her gentle, patient-focused care. She will assess the situation and recommend the right solution. No judgment. Just help.
Maintain Your Beautiful Smile Today
Your cosmetic smile is an investment in your confidence and health. With the right care, it can last for years.
If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Raleigh, trust the team that has been serving this community since 1989. Stonehenge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers veneers, crowns, Invisalign, teeth whitening, bonding, and Botox for TMJ and migraines.
Call us today at (919) 295-0936 to schedule a consultation. We serve patients from Six Forks, Traemoor, Hidden Valley, Hampton Oaks, and all around Raleigh. Let us help you protect the smile you love.