Caring for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are used for numerous applications in cosmetic dentistry. If you have veneers, they will last much longer if you are careful to take good care of them. Porcelain is a durable material, but it can chip or crack under some circumstances. Some of the most important considerations when caring for your veneers include:
- Let your dental hygienist know you have veneers
- Avoid biting hard objects to protect the edges of the veneers
- Visit the dentist regularly to look for signs of tooth decay or other problems
Your cosmetic dentist will provide instructions to ensure your veneers last you for many years without damage or problems. Be sure to follow these instructions closely.
How Veneers Work
Veneers are very thin porcelain shells that are affixed directly to the front surfaces of the teeth. They are custom-made and color-matched so they blend in with your existing teeth. Veneers reflect light in much the same way as regular enamel, so they have the same kind of semi-translucent luster. This means your treated teeth are virtually indistinguishable from non-treated teeth.
Because veneers are so thin, the cosmetic dentist does minimal restructuring of the underlying tooth to make room for them. In fact, some veneers are so thin that they can be placed directly on the tooth surface without any restructuring. They are held in place with a strong, permanent adhesive. After your veneers are affixed, be sure to keep them clean and avoid any bad habits, such as nail biting or chewing on pens or pencils, that could chip the edges of the veneers. This way, you will be able to enjoy your beautiful smile for years to come.
To find out how you can benefit from veneers, contact Howl Dental at 918-749-1626 and schedule your professional consultation today.