What are Porcelain Veneers and How Do They Work?
If you are a person who is not particularly happy with their smile, porcelain veneers might be the solution you’re looking for. A veneer is a thin piece of porcelain or composite resin that is used to re-create the natural look of teeth. They also provide strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel. Veneers are custom made to the contour of your teeth and are bonded to the tooth’s original enamel during a series of in-office procedures.
Many individuals choose to get veneers over crowns or braces, as they are less intrusive. Veneers can be used to close gaps or correct a small misalignment. Generally, veneers are mainly used as a cosmetic solution to enhance the brightness of their teeth, straighten their smile, or to correct issues such as discoloration, fractures, or chips.
For more information about veneers and if they might be a practical option for you, schedule an appointment with Saratoga Family Dentistry today
Taking Care of Your Porcelain Veneers
Since veneers are meant to look and feel as natural regular teeth, caring for them is easy. The following are some things to keep in mind as you take care of your veneers so you can make sure that they last:
Keeping your veneers clean
As you care for your real teeth, you must care for your veneers just as much. It is important to brush at least twice a day while using dental floss. This is how to maintain optimal dental health, as poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which will start to expose the borders of your veneers. When this happens, you are putting them at risk of chipping or detachment.
Choosing the right toothpaste for your veneers
Some kinds of toothpaste out there contain ingredients that end up being too abrasive for both teeth and veneers. It is typically wiser to choose gel products over those in paste form, since they are likely not to include hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda.
Avoid foods that could damage your veneers
Aside from watching out for tough food items, you want to be wary of eating too much food that contains lots of sugar and acid. These items are known for contributing to tooth decay and are not good for veneers either. It is also best to avoid sweet and starchy goods as well as sugary drinks. Finally, food coloring in certain food can lead to veneers becoming stained.
Visit the dentist regularly so they can check your veneers
It is always important to visit the dentist every six months. This is especially important when you have veneers. The dentist can help you avoid gum and mouth infections that can adversely affect the quality and state of your veneers. They can also address any problem that might come up before it gets worse, such as chips, cracks, or deteriorating bonds between the veneers and your teeth.
If you have any additional questions about veneers and taking care of them, give our office a call today!