Who Is Not Suitable for Smile Surgery?

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Smile surgery is generally not recommended for young patients whose teeth and jaws are still developing. Adolescents and children may still experience changes in their bite, alignment, and tooth size, which could affect the long-term stability of cosmetic dental work. Performing procedures like veneers on developing teeth can lead to complications as the teeth continue to shift or grow.

For younger patients, less invasive options such as braces or Invisalign First may be more appropriate until the teeth and jaw are fully matured. Once dental development is complete, more permanent cosmetic procedures can be considered.

Before undergoing any cosmetic dental procedure, it is essential to have a foundation of good oral health. Certain treatments, such as veneers, bridges, or crowns require that the teeth be in optimal condition for long-term success. Patients with untreated cavities are not suitable candidates until their oral health issues are addressed. It is critical to undergo cavity treatments before considering any form of cosmetic work.

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bones. Individuals with advanced gum disease are typically not suitable candidates for smile surgery until their periodontal health is under control. This is because gum disease can lead to bone loss, which may compromise the stability of any cosmetic dental work performed. In cases where the gum disease is treated successfully, patients may become eligible for smile surgery.

While smoking doesn’t automatically disqualify you from undergoing smile surgery, it's important to understand its significant negative impact on oral health and the success of such procedures.

Smoking impairs the healing process, increases the risk of infections, and contributes to gum disease. For those considering smile surgery, such as dental implants or gum contouring, smoking can reduce the success rate. Nicotine restricts blood flow to the gums, impairing their ability to heal after surgery and increasing the risk of implant failure or gum recession. Heavy smokers are strongly advised to quit smoking before undergoing smile surgery and maintain a smoke-free lifestyle afterward to improve outcomes.

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Certain chronic health conditions can make smile surgery risky or less effective. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and conditions that affect the immune system can hinder the healing process and increase the likelihood of complications. Diabetes, in particular, can cause slow wound healing and increase the risk of infection, making it harder for cosmetic procedures to succeed. Patients with these conditions are not always ruled out for smile surgery, but their health must be well-managed before and after the procedure.

Dental implants require a certain amount of bone density for success. Patients who have experienced significant bone loss, often due to prolonged tooth loss or advanced gum disease, may not have enough bone to support a dental implant. Without sufficient bone density, the implant may fail to integrate with the jaw, leading to instability and long-term complications. In cases of severe bone loss, patients may need to undergo bone grafting before they can be considered candidates for implants.