The Do’s and Don’ts of Porcelain Veneers
Created on September 30, 2017
More and more people are turning to porcelain veneers to get the smile they have always wanted. We are proud to offer this service to patients of our Springfield office. In addition to careful planning and performance, we understand the value of follow-up. Because porcelain veneer treatment requires us to slightly reduce surface enamel, patients commit to a lifetime of care. If a veneer chips or is otherwise damaged, replacement is necessary. The entire process is carried out to facilitate long-term success. However, there are certain things you do want to do, and certain things you don’t want to do when you have porcelain veneers.
- Do see your dentist regularly. Just like natural enamel, plaque and tartar can accumulate on or around a veneer. These sheaths of material are bonded only to the front surface of a tooth or teeth. That leaves the sides and back of the tooth vulnerable. Brushing and flossing are vital to the longevity of veneers. Also, professional care is beneficial because we can look closely at the margins where veneers meet enamel to ensure no build-up has begun. Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which can be difficult to remove. We use specific tools to do this while preserving the integrity of the bond between veneers and the natural tooth.
- Do enjoy a variety of foods. There may be a temptation to protect veneers by changing your eating habits. This is not necessary. Porcelain is resistant to staining, so you can continue to enjoy that morning cup of tea or coffee, and even relish the pleasure of a nice glass of red wine. The bonding process creates integrity that enables your veneered teeth to handle biting even dense foods. The only tip for eating is to avoid biting and twisting, like biting off a piece of taffy. This motion may disrupt the veneer and create vulnerability to breakage.
- Don’t chew on hard objects. Food is fine; your fingernails are not. Veneers cannot handle the force of chronic biting on pen caps, ice, and other non-food objects. Truth be told, your natural teeth can’t handle this, either.
Would you like to know more about porcelain veneers and what’s possible for you? Call our Springfield office at (413) 781-7645.
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