Whether you’ve had veneers, dental implants, crowns, bridges, bonding, or teeth whitening, your smile restoration doesn’t end when the procedure is over. Proper post-treatment oral care is essential to maintain the longevity, appearance, and health of your restored smile.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were committed to helping you protect your investment in your smile. This guide provides a detailed overview of the best oral care practices following smile restoration treatments, helping you keep your smile healthy, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
Why Post-Treatment Care Matters
Even though restorations like crowns, veneers, implants, and bridges are durable and designed to last, they are not completely immune to:
Staining
Wear and tear
Plaque buildup
Gum disease
Damage from bad habits
Caring for them properly ensures that both the restorations and your natural teeth stay in great condition.
Daily Oral Care Routine for Restored Smiles
1. Brush Twice Daily
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
Focus on gentle, circular motions, especially near the gum line.
For veneers and crowns, choose non-abrasive toothpaste to protect their polished finish.
2. Floss Every Day
Flossing removes plaque and food between teeth and under bridges.
Use floss threaders or super floss for bridges, implants, or tight spaces.
A water flosser can be an effective and gentle alternative.
3. Rinse with Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
An antibacterial rinse helps maintain healthy gums without drying the mouth.
Look for fluoride-enriched mouthwashes for added protection.
Special Care for Different Restorations
Veneers & Crowns:
Avoid biting into hard foods like nuts, ice, or candies.
Limit stain-causing beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.
Implants:
Clean carefully around the implant using floss threaders or interdental brushes.
Keep the gum tissue around the implant healthy to avoid peri-implantitis.
Bridges:
Use a floss threader to clean under the bridge.
Keep the anchor teeth (abutments) clean to support the bridge long-term.
Bonded Teeth:
Avoid nail-biting, chewing on pens, or opening packages with teeth.
Stick to a regular hygiene routine to prevent staining.
Whitened Teeth:
Avoid heavily pigmented foods and drinks for at least 48 hours post-whitening to maintain brightness.
Foods to Approach with Caution
Hard candies, nuts, or ice
Sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum
Highly acidic items like citrus fruits or vinegar-based foods
Stain-causing beverages (coffee, tea, cola, red wine)
Habits That Help Protect Your Smile
Wear a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth.
Avoid using teeth as tools.
Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow, which helps control bacteria.
Avoid smoking, which stains teeth and affects gum health.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
Visit McLevin Dental for checkups and professional cleanings every 6 months, or more often if recommended.
Your dentist will monitor the health of both your natural teeth and restorations, spotting early signs of wear, decay, or gum issues.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out if you experience:
Chipping, cracking, or roughness in restorations
Sensitivity that doesnt improve after a few days
Looseness in a crown, bridge, or veneer
Gum swelling, bleeding, or discomfort
Persistent stains despite proper care
Long-Term Benefits of Proper Post-Treatment Oral Care
Extends the life of veneers, crowns, implants, and bridges
Maintains the color and brightness of whitened teeth
Prevents gum disease and decay
Keeps your smile looking radiant and feeling comfortable
Trust McLevin Dental for a Lasting Smile
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, your smile transformation is just the beginning. Our dedicated dental team is here to help you maintain and protect your restored smile for years to come with expert advice, regular checkups, and tailored care.
If you have any concerns about your post-treatment care or want personalized recommendations, contact our friendly team today. Lets keep your smile beautiful, strong, and healthytogether.