The Do’s & Don’t’s Of Getting Your Teeth Done

There’s no denying the power of a smile. Its ability to boost your confidence, transform your appearance and totally change your mood. But that being said, there’s a lot that goes into a superstar smile – and teeth play a key part.

We all know to brush twice a day and floss, but with so many treatments and tweakments out there now, navigating the world of dental procedures can be seriously confusing. As Dr Krystyna Wilczynski, Cosmetic Dentist & Facial Aesthetician says, “Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, with so many more treatment options than there used to be, meaning we can help create your dream smile without the need for ‘Turkey teeth’ aka – filing your teeth down and having veneers fitted.”

Does at-home whitening actually work? Can we achieve beautiful teeth without undergoing surgery? Hip & Healthy tapped some of the UK’s leading dentists to find out their ultimate dos and don’ts of getting your teeth done. This is what they had to say…

DO ask to see before and after results and check reviews.
Before committing to any cosmetic dental procedure, ask the dentist to provide before and after photos of previous patients. This allows you to assess the quality of their work and determine if their aesthetic standards align with your expectations. Additionally, read reviews from other patients, both online and through word-of-mouth referrals, if possible.
Dr Stephen Dodd, Cosmetic Dentist at Ringway Dental

DON’T do unnecessary procedures.
My basic don’t is to avoid surgical and potentially tooth-damaging procedures wherever possible, and to research treatments that achieve natural, long-lasting results whilst still maintaining the structure of your smile, without damaging the tooth structure. Our research and knowledge of the long-term effects of these extreme cases of veneers is relatively unknown, however, we do know that the damage done by veneers is irreversible, permanent, and an expensive solution to oral aesthetic concerns.
Dr Mani Bhardwaj, Principal Dentist, Founder & Clinical Director of The Smile Studios Dental Group

DO watch what you eat.
With the obsession of healthy diet regimes, more acidic foods are being consumed and can wreak havoc on the teeth, like lemon water. As such, more and more people are complaining of tooth wear and lost enamel. This has led to more enquiries for veneers or bonding.
Dr Rhona Eskander, award-winning cosmetic dentist.

DON’T use online teeth straightening or whitening treatments.
Avoid DIY or online teeth straightening and whitening treatments, as these methods can pose serious risks to your oral health. Over-the-counter whitening kits and mail-order aligners often lack professional guidance, which can lead to ineffective results or even dental complications. Instead, consult with a qualified dentist who can assess your oral health and recommend safe and effective cosmetic treatments tailored to your individual needs.
Dr Dodd

DO invest in top home care products.
My biggest at-home tip is to use an electric toothbrush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride-based toothpaste or toothpaste tablet. Water Pik water flossers are also fab. They help clean underneath the gum line using a water irrigation system.
Dr. Eskander

DON’T leave it too close to a big event!
Many people come to me a month or two before a big event (e.g. their wedding) and want their teeth to be perfect, but there are many factors to consider. For example, composite bonding is not always suitable for everyone. You may need a course of Invisalign (or similar) to straighten teeth before bonding, or else the bonding will not last and can crack/chip easily. You need to allow time for this. As a general rule, I recommend at least one year for Invisalign/a full smile makeover for the planning and execution. For Composite Bonding, I recommend at least 3-4 months before your big day so the bonding can settle in and we have time to make any adjustments. For teeth whitening, allow 1-2 months so you can do the whitening and top up just beforehand if needed.
Dr Wilczynski

DO your research.
The most important “do” if you want to get your teeth “done” and improve the appearance of your teeth is to always refer to a specialist and research your dental practitioner. This will prevent any potential complications and long-term damage to your teeth. Additionally, go to your consultations prepared. Write down exactly what concerns you about your smile and what areas you would like to improve. This will give your specialist a good sense of what you’re looking to achieve and provide the best treatment options suited to you ranging from basic to advanced. Ultimately, helping you choose the safest and most cost-effective method that doesn’t damage healthy teeth and gums.
Dr Bhardwaj

DON’T opt for veneers if your teeth are crowded.
If your teeth are crowded or misaligned, veneers may not be the best solution. Instead, consider orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign (clear aligners) to correct teeth alignment before undergoing veneer placement. Straightening the teeth first ensures proper alignment and spacing, allowing veneers to achieve the best aesthetic result.
Dr Dodd

DO focus on a healthy mouth before considering cosmetic treatments.
A healthy mouth forms the foundation for successful cosmetic procedures and ensures long-lasting results. Schedule regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments to address any underlying issues such as cavities, gum disease etc. Make sure to floss regularly and use interdental sticks too. Looking after your mouth beforehand not only improves the overall health of your mouth/gums/teeth etc, but also enhances the effectiveness and longevity of cosmetic procedures.
Dr Eskander

words by Frankie Rozwadowska