Keeping Your Veneers Looking Great!

If you have minor chips in your teeth, or if they are discolored, too short or incorrectly spaced, dental veneers may be an answer to your problem. Veneers are very thin shells, often made out of porcelain that are placed on the fronts of your teeth. They can conceal minor damage and stains, lengthen your teeth or close the gaps between them. Keep in mind that while veneers are easy to place and easy to care for, some of your tooth enamel has to be removed to place them, so the process is irreversible.

To place your your veneers, your dentist will first remove some of the enamel from the fronts of your teeth, which will help the dental cement hold the veneers in place. The dentist will make an impression of your teeth and send it, and the choice of color for the veneers to a dental lab. That lab will create permanent veneers that are custom-made for your smile. You will have temporary veneers to cover your teeth until your permanent ones are ready.

After your permanent veneers have been placed, they will need some care. With the proper care, a dental veneer will last between 10 and 15 years. You will need to continue to brush and floss your teeth as always, and continue to see your dentist for your routine appointments. Remember, the veneers protect the fronts of your teeth from decay, but not the backs.

If you habitually grind or clench your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, you could damage your veneers. If you suffer from bruxism, you should talk with your dentist about treating it, or getting a night guard to wear while you sleep. If you eat ice or hard foods; or are in the habit of chewing on a pen or pencil while you work, you could chip your veneers. Your dentist may be able to fix minor chips, but if the damage is severe, or the cement holding your veneers wears out, your dentist may have to replace your veneer.

If you are interested in improving your smile with dental veneers, our dentist, Dr. Parker Long will be happy to see you for an exam and a consultation. If you live in the College Station, Texas, area, you can call 979-846-0082 to make an appointment at Long Family & Cosmetic Dentistry