Aimee Lou Wood’s gnashers (high key obsessed) may have taken us into the era of natural teeth goals but for those channelling every Bollywood wedding announcement post ever (think we’re-so-in-love with our big laughs) we’ve got you covered. Dr Namrata Jadwani Taktiani, co-founder of Seven Oral Care, shares her ultimate guide to get those pearly whites shining for your wedding day.
Step one: Lock in that check-up ASAP
Before you dive into the chaos of venue scouting and dress fittings, schedule a dental consultation. “The right treatment takes time—last-minute fixes won’t cut it,” says Dr Jadwani Taktiani. A solid plan ensures you get exactly what your teeth need, whether it’s a minor glow-up or a full-blown makeover.
Align that smile: Clear aligners FTW
Clear aligners are your best bet if you’re looking to tweak gaps, crowding, or misalignment. Think of them as the incognito braces you always wished for. “They’re practically invisible, let you eat whatever you want, and don’t require frequent dental visits,” she explains. Since they can take six months to a year, book that appointment as soon as you’ve locked in the wedding date.
Veneers: The celeb-approved smile upgrade
Want that flawless, Hollywood-worthy smile? Veneers are your ticket. They enhance shape, colour, and alignment, giving you that effortlessly perfect look. “They typically take two to three weeks but should ideally be done two to three months before the wedding, so you have time to adjust,” she advises.
Teeth cleaning & whitening: Non-negotiable
Whiter, brighter teeth? Mandatory. A professional cleaning ensures your teeth are plaque-free while whitening dials up the sparkle. For maximum impact, it’s best done one to two weeks before the wedding. While laser teeth whitening is popular, she says, “Zoom whitening delivers superior results, but post-treatment, avoid stain-heavy foods like coffee, turmeric, beetroot, red wine, and smoking for 24 to 48 hours.” Pro tip: Stick to a ‘white food diet’—yogurt, eggs, chicken, milk, pasta, rice, cheese etc.—post-whitening and stay hydrated.
Tooth bling: The sparkle you didn’t know you needed
Diamonds aren’t just for your ring. “A subtle studded diamanté, typically placed on the lateral incisor, is the most popular choice among brides these days,” she says.
Gum contouring: A subtle yet game-changing fix
For gummy smiles, laser gum contouring is a quick and transformative procedure. “It’s a near-painless, bloodless treatment with stunning results,” she says. However, if significant contouring is required, it may involve a surgical procedure with at least a week to ten days of recovery time. “For a flawless finish, it’s best to get this done at least a month in advance,” she recommends.
Oral care = Overall health
Oral health is at the core of overall well-being, closely linked to gut health, heart health, diabetes, and even skin conditions. With nearly 20 million bacteria in the mouth, anything beyond the beneficial kind doesn’t just cause cavities or bad breath—it can contribute to broader health concerns. “Plaque and tartar build-up aren’t just dental issues; they can be ingested and have been linked to conditions like acne and psoriasis,” she warns.
Remineralising toothpaste helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel. “Steer clear of natural toothpaste unless you want to pay the price at the dentist’s chair,” she cautions, adding that oral probiotics are becoming a go-to for maintaining a healthy oral environment.
Crunch, sip, rinse—foods that love your teeth back
When it comes to diet, crunchy foods like lettuce, celery, and carrots act as natural toothbrushes, helping to remove plaque. Dairy products, especially cheese, are rich in calcium and pair well with wine by balancing its acidic pH. Strawberries, packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, support gum health, while a simple salt and warm water rinse is one of the best natural mouthwashes. However, she emphasises that these are only supplements to your routine and can never replace proper oral care or regular dental check-ups.
Oral care goes luxe
From gold-studded grills to 24K gold-infused toothpaste, oral care is having a high-fashion moment. “But let’s be real—gold flakes won’t make your teeth healthier,” she says. Stick to the right active ingredients over aesthetic gimmicks.
Bridal stress = Jaw clenching? We got you
Wedding planning stress is real, and for some, it shows up as jaw clenching or teeth grinding. A night guard can help, but if the tension gets extreme, there’s also masseter Botox—it relieves strain while subtly contouring the jawline. Finally, you wouldn’t trust just anyone with your wedding makeup, so don’t leave your smile to chance either. “Choose a dentist like you would a photographer or MUA—your smile deserves the best,” she says. At the end of the day, the perfect smile isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about feeling confident and carefree. So go on, flash that megawatt grin and make memories that last a lifetime.
