Lipstick Etiquette in Dentistry

Today is National Lipstick Day! Most women enjoy applying lipstick to enhance their smile. However, if you are a lipstick lover and have squeezed in a dental visit, this tiny detail may slip your mind— Be sure to remove your lipstick before your appointment.

Colorful lips can be a perfect fashion accent for work, dining out, daily outings and special events, but you should considered skipping the lipstick prior to a dental visit. Dental procedures can get a little messy around the mouth area with water, saliva and dental materials. Wearing lipstick just adds more to the mix. It can get all over dental instruments gloves, x-ray devices and YOU. Also, if your dentist is performing a tooth restoration, colored lips make it more difficult to evaluate what tooth shade matches your natural teeth best. So, there’s no need to freshen up your lipstick before your appointment. However, if you do wear it, your lipstick will definitely need freshening afterwards!

If you follow proper lipstick etiquette and apply minimal makeup for your appointments, your trips to the dentist will be much more pleasant. You can always reapply once your appointment is finished. If your dental visit included a cleaning, whitening, or a cosmetic procedure, you will probably be excited to show everyone your new smile. So, you head straight to a mirror and apply your favorite color to accessorize your bright, beautiful new smile.

Feel free to wear lipstick, but be aware that your dentist may politely ask for it to be removed before beginning your exam, cleaning or any dental treatment. Trust us when we say that we think you look beautiful without it! Be sure to keep regular dental checkups and cleanings to keep your smile healthy and bright. Call South Tampa Smiles at (813) 289-0560 to schedule your next appointment. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you!