Dental veneers are very easy to care for. You may have to make minor adjustments in the products you use in your oral healthcare routine, but that’s all. Otherwise, you can care for your veneers in the same way you would care for your natural teeth. Let’s look at this treatment and caring for dental veneers.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are the ultimate form of cosmetic dentistry. They are super thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that essentially cover your natural teeth. They can help to conceal a number of cosmetic woes, including:
- Chipped teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Staining
- Undesirable spacing
With a full mouth of veneers, your dentist can help you reinvent your smile over the course of just a few appointments.
Getting Started with Cosmetic Dentistry
If you’re interested in having cosmetic dentistry in Irvine, then a general dental examination is your first step. Your dentist will evaluate the current health of your teeth and gums. They will also look for evidence of chronic teeth grinding.
If there are existing health issues, those will need to be addressed first. Signs of teeth grinding may indicate that dental veneers are not an ideal fit for you. However, you can discuss options including a nightguard if you’re determined to pursue a cosmetic option like dental veneers.
The Process of Getting Dental Veneers
Once you’ve been cleared, you’re ready to begin the process of getting dental veneers. It is usually broken up into three appointments.
Consultation:
Veneers come in a wide range of shapes, colors, and materials. During your first appointment, your dentist will go over all of your options with you.
Depending on their preference, they will either use a mold or your actual teeth to show you what different kinds of veneers look like in real life. Once you have made a decision, you’re ready to move on to the next steps.
Preparation:
Veneers are designed to sit smoothly on your teeth.
To make them look as natural as possible, your dentist may have to shave little bits of your enamel to make room for the veneers. Then your dentist will gently etch your teeth. The rougher edges will give the adhesive a better grip.
Once the prep is done, your dentist will take a mold of your teeth. This mold will be sent to the lab so that your veneers can be perfectly customized to your mouth.
Placement:
When your veneers are done, your dentist will be ready to place them. Each veneer will be carefully placed, and your dentist will ask you to examine the fit before permanently adhering them to your teeth.
Caring for Dental Veneers
Your teeth may be slightly sensitive at first, but caring for your porcelain veneers in Irvine is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. There are just three things to keep in mind.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like your nails or ice
The truth is that you should already be doing all of these things to take care of your natural teeth. It’s just a little more important now.
Other than that, all you have to worry about is brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist every six months. As long as you’re following a regular oral healthcare routine, your veneers will look fantastic for a long time.
Deciding if Dental Veneers Are Right for You
If you’re interested in what dental veneers can do for your smile, then contact your cosmetic dentist in Irvine today. While dental veneers may not be right for everyone, your dentist will be able to provide real solutions to give you the smile you’ve always wanted.