IF you’re like most brides — and grooms-to-be — making sure you have a picture-perfect smile is probably an important part of your wedding plan.

All the attention is going to be on you, and your smile.

To get a radiant smile on your big day, there are a few things you should be doing in the weeks and months leading up to the ceremony.

Whitening for the wedding

The dress isn’t the only thing that’s white at many weddings. Some couples whiten their teeth for sparkling smiles on the big day. Because whitening can make your teeth feel more sensitive, it is recommended to whiten a month before the big day.

There are also some take-home options you can use, such as trays you can get from your dentist. You can also use whitening toothpaste or strips, that way you know they are safe and effective. Ask your dentist which method is best for you but above all, stay away from home remedies, some of can actually do more harm than good.

Schedule a dental appointment early on

Weddings mark such momentous days in our lives, and our smiles are a big part of them. The last thing you want to worry about is a toothache on your wedding day or on your honeymoon.

If you don’t see a dentist regularly, the time leading up to your wedding can be a great time to start. Schedule an appointment a few months out to avoid painful and possibly expensive problems around your wedding. Having regular dental visits can help reduce your chances of a dental emergency or needing a procedure that is close to the wedding date.

Upgrade your smile with porcelain veneers

Veneers can be used to even out the edges of your teeth and make your smile look even better. If you have any chipped or cracked teeth, gaps, or crooked teeth, getting porcelain veneers can fix these issues. Veneers look like natural teeth and can last for many years with proper care.

Once you’ve evened out the edges or your teeth and used an effective whitening treatment, you’ll be ready for your wedding day with a smile that everyone will remember.

Wedding day must-haves

If your bridesmaids are putting together an emergency kit, there’s one item that’s recommended. Have one of your bridesmaids carry floss and a little compact mirror to make sure there’s nothing in your teeth and everything looks good.

Regular brushing and cleaning should help your breath stay fresh, but feel free to also pack some sugarless gum. Also, avoid food that can leave your breath not as fresh, like onions or garlic.

Commit to a daily dental routine

Your wedding is just one small part of a long life with your partner. When it comes to your dental routine, don’t let it slide after tying the knot. Follow a healthy dental routine before the wedding and after.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, located at shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710. Like their Facebook page, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa for an opportunity to take advantage of weekly specials.