Discover the secrets to achieving a picture-perfect wedding smile with expert advice from dental professionals and a happily married couple who've been there, done that.
When Larry Dougherty first met his dental school classmate Ana Paula Ferraz, the first thing that caught his attention was her long, jet-black hair. As their friendship blossomed, Ana fell in love with Larry's kindness and sense of humor.
After dental school, the couple decided to say their vows, and Ana and Larry had an intimate 60-person wedding at a historic estate in Miami. One of their most cherished guests was their rat terrier, Chi Chi, who donned a top-hat for the occasion and even rode with Larry in the limo. "It was a perfect day," Ana fondly recalls. "We couldn't stop smiling." Their smiles have continued to shine ever since. Today, Dr. Ana and Dr. Larry run their own dental practice and have some valuable advice to offer for those preparing for their wedding day.
Brightening Your Smile for the Big Day
At many weddings, it's not just the bride's dress that's sparkling white. Some couples, including Ana and Larry, opt to whiten their teeth for radiant smiles on their special day. Dr. Ferraz suggests, "If you're considering teeth whitening for your wedding, as we did, it's best to have a dentist perform the procedure in their office. This way, you can see immediate results and avoid the hassle of using whitening trays daily."
Since teeth whitening can make your teeth more sensitive, Ana and Larry had their teeth whitened about a month before the wedding. "Scheduling the appointment well in advance allows your smile to adjust, which I highly recommend," Ana advises. "By your wedding day, your teeth won't be overly sensitive."
There are also at-home whitening options available, such as custom trays from your dentist, or whitening toothpaste and strips with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, ensuring their safety and effectiveness. It's crucial to consult your dentist to determine the best method for you. Above all, steer clear of DIY remedies, which may do more harm than good.
Early Dental Check-Up
"Weddings mark significant milestones in our lives, and our smiles play a crucial role," Ana emphasizes. "The last thing you want is to deal with a toothache on your wedding day or during your honeymoon."
If you don't have a regular dentist, the months leading up to your wedding offer an ideal opportunity to establish a dental care routine. Schedule a dental appointment a few months in advance to prevent painful and potentially costly dental issues close to your wedding. Ana recalls a patient who faced a dental emergency due to infected wisdom teeth less than two weeks before her wedding. Regular dental visits can reduce the risk of such situations. If you need a dentist, begin your search today!
Essentials for Your Wedding Day
If your bridesmaids are assembling an emergency kit, Ana recommends including one crucial item: "Have one of your bridesmaids carry dental floss and a compact mirror to ensure nothing is stuck in your teeth and that everything looks perfect," she advises. "That's what I did."
Consistent brushing and interdental cleaning will help maintain fresh breath, but it's a good idea to pack some sugarless gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance for a quick breath boost during the day. Ana also advises avoiding foods that can leave your breath less than fresh, such as onions or garlic.
Maintain a Daily Dental Routine
While your wedding day is a significant event, it's just the beginning of your life together. Don't neglect your dental care after tying the knot. Ana and Larry followed a healthy dental routine leading up to their wedding and have continued their daily ritual since. "We have our own morning routine where we brush and floss together," Ana shares about their bathroom moments with Larry.
Even as they chat over the buzzing of their electronic toothbrushes, Larry emphasizes, "It can be challenging to hear her, but that won't stop me from talking. I always have something nice to say."