It is never advisable for patients to use their teeth to bite hard objects like ice; or chew fingernails; or use their teeth like scissors to rip open packages. Once fitted with veneers, these and similar bad habits must be abandoned to keep your veneers looking their best.
Dental veneers are wafer thin shells that are designed to be placed on the front of teeth to treat many dental imperfections:
- Stain – Intrinsic stain can be the result of medication use, over fluoridation or genetic factors. In patients that suffer from stain that cannot be treated through a professional hygiene cleaning or teeth whitening, veneers offers a less invasive cosmetic option.
- Chipped teeth
- Uneven or worn teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Make crooked teeth appear straight
- Make gum recession disappear
- Worn enamel appears more even
Since veneers are placed over your own teeth, a couple of factors should be discussed. Traditional dental veneers made from porcelain are permanently cemented to the front of your teeth. As such, a small amount of dental enamel must be removed from the tooth to make the appearance of the veneer match surrounding teeth.
This process is permanent so the patient must understand this is not reversible. Your cosmetic dentist will fabricate your veneers to match the contour, texture and color shading of your natural teeth which will make your teeth treated with veneers virtually indiscernible.
Patients that suffer from any type of dental disease such as gingivitis or periodontitis should investigate treatment for gum disease – this may eliminate them as good candidates for dental veneers.
What special care is required to care for your new smile? Excellent dental hygiene habits such as daily flossing and brushing with a fluoridated tooth paste or gel; twice yearly visits to your dental provider for a professional cleaning and exam; avoid biting into hard objects – food or otherwise.
Although veneers are made from porcelain and are quite strong and resistant to staining, there are a couple of extra precautions to be considered. Avoid being overly aggressive when brushing and flossing. Also, consider investing into tooth paste designed specifically for teeth treated with veneers.
If you are interested in pursuing dental veneers to enhance your smile and would like further information, contact the Arlington TX office of Dr. Daggula today at 817-465-0355 to schedule an appointment.
