A User’s Guide to Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers make it possible to have the smile of your dreams! These versatile porcelain pieces fit neatly over the front surface of teeth to conceal any flaws beneath. You may be wondering what goes into caring for them, long-term. Read below to find out. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please call the DENTAL STUDIO in San Francisco at 415-392-5025.
How To Know If You’re A Candidate
In general, porcelain veneers address:
- Chips
- Stains and discoloration
- Cracks and fractures
- Worn edges
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Teeth that are too small to be aesthetically pleasing
These problems are hidden beneath the veneer. They are good for cosmetic problems especially. If the issue is severe – such as a badly fractured tooth – then a more functional restoration will be necessary, like a dental crown. A crown holds together portions of a broken tooth and protects that tooth in a way veneers cannot. Our experienced cosmetic dentists will determine if veneers are appropriate for your teeth.
How To Clean Them
Once your veneers are placed over your teeth, your glamorous new smile will be ready to go. You’ll leave our office with your results ready to show off. You may be wondering about the long-term care of your veneers. It’s actually no different than your normal dental hygiene routine:
- Brush 2-3 times per day, for 2 minutes each time
- Floss once a day, every day
- Visit the dentist’s office for your regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups
The veneer itself cannot decay, but the tooth surrounding it still can. Brush the surface of the veneers just like they are the natural enamel. Doing so removes plaque accumulating on them and will prevent stains. Veneers are resistant to discoloration, but leaving soda, coffee, wine and other stain causers on the surface will accelerate dullness. Visit our office for your regular checkups, during which we will polish the surface of the veneers (and your teeth) and make sure they are working out well for you.
How To Protect Them
Like cleaning the veneers, protecting the veneers is the same as how you protect your teeth:
- Don’t chew on ice cubes
- Don’t chew on the tips of pens or pencils, or on any objects that can break your teeth
- Don’t use your teeth to tear open packages
- Wear a custom mouth guard if you play contact sports like football
Veneers are quite durable, despite their delicate, beautiful appearance. While they stand up to force well, it is not impossible to break or chip a veneer. Following the recommendations above will prevent such damage, not only to your veneers but to your teeth as well.
Learning More About Veneers
Ready to find out if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers? To arrange a consultation, please call the DENTAL STUDIO at 415-392-5025. Our elegant, comfortable and modern practice is located in San Francisco. We proudly provide care for patients from across our region of the Bay Area, including San Rafael, Berkeley and Oakland.