SCOTTS VALLEY, SANTA CRUZ CA
If you’re self-conscious about showing your teeth, veneers may be the solution for you. However, as with other dental treatments, apprehensions are reasonable, given the magnitude of the investment and commitment. Today on the blog, our Scotts Valley cosmetic dentists discuss what happens to your teeth after you get veneers and how you can protect your new smile longer.
What are veneers?
Porcelain and resin composites are used to create very thin veneer “shells” that cover imperfections in the teeth. These “shells” are permanently bonded to the front of flawed teeth to make them appear and feel like enamel. It’s quite impossible to detect the difference; not even your closest friend will be able to detect your veneers.
Our cosmetic dentists in Santa Cruz who offer veneers explain that you can have veneers placed on one or more teeth at once. Moreover, there is no such thing as a universally applicable solution. Veneers are made to order; thus, the patient’s facial features, aesthetic goals, and existing teeth play a role in determining the veneers’ final form and color.
Is it possible to get cavities underneath the veneers?
The only way cavities may form beneath veneers is if the patient doesn’t take good care of their teeth by regularly brushing and flossing. Even though veneers protect the front surface of each tooth, decay can still develop under and around the veneer. Our Los Gatos cosmetic dentists explain that the typical offenders creating cavities underneath the veneers are a lack of attention to oral health and a diet heavy in starches and sugars.
How do I protect my teeth and veneers from damage?
Veneers are an excellent way to rejuvenate your smile, but only if you maintain them properly. For best results, brush your teeth for two full minutes twice a day, and use floss once a day. Although manual toothbrushes may be effective, electric toothbrushes often provide easier access to more difficult-to-reach parts of the mouth.
Our cosmetic dentists that offer veneers in Scotts Valley share below a few additional tips that can help protect your teeth and veneers from damage so that you can enjoy the return on your investment longer.
- If you grind your teeth, you risk cracking your veneers and exposing your teeth to bacteria. Your dentist may recommend a nighttime splint, or they may discuss other treatment options with you.
- Stay away from foods that are too hard, rough, or sticky to eat. It’s important to limit teeth-staining foods and drinks like coffee, berries, wine, tomatoes, and dyed foods.
- Be careful to thoroughly rinse your mouth after consuming anything that can leave a stain.
- Never use your teeth to pry open bottles, crush ice, or bite your fingernails.
- Once every six months, see your dentist for a professional cleaning to get rid of tartar buildup.
- Always wear a mouth guard while participating in contact sports.
Veneers in Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley, California
Choosing veneers for your smile improvement can bring a wonderful return on investment, especially when you properly care for them. Through daily brushing and flossing activities and visiting our Santa Cruz cosmetic dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, you can ensure that your new veneer smile will last for years. If you have questions about veneers or are ready to begin your journey to a new smile, please call Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry at (831) 438-4411 or contact us online to request an appointment today.
