Dentist in Arden, NC answers, “Do dental veneers require special care?”

Many patients who visit with Dr. Forest Christopher Port and his associates at the Family Dental Health of South Asheville are excited to discuss options for smile enhancement. With a wide range of materials and treatments available under one roof, patients with imperfections in their smile can work with our team to choose what is best for their needs. Patients in the area of Arden, NC can ask the dentist about what porcelain veneers can do to enhance their smile, whether dental veneers require special care, and any other questions they have.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers, also known as “dental veneers,” are special dental restorations made to cover the teeth near the front of the smile to improve the appearance. This is often done when imperfections are present, such as:

• Misalignment
• Gaps between teeth
• Chips and cracks
• Unusually shaped teeth

These restorations are incredibly thin and are bonded onto the tooth for a completely transformed appearance.

Do dental veneers require special care?

Dr. Port finds that porcelain veneers do not require any special attention outside of brushing and flossing after every meal. However, it is essential that patients understand that porcelain veneers cover the natural tooth, and that the tooth is still susceptible to developing cavities and periodontal disease. This is why it is so important that patients take the time to connect with their dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation so that they can ensure their smile is monitored for changes such as these. If periodontal disease or cavities are found on the underlying tooth, the dentist can provide treatment without having to remove the porcelain veneer in most cases.

What can I expect when getting dental veneers?

The entire process of obtaining porcelain veneers starts with an evaluation and consultation appointment with Dr. Port at our practice. The dentist will examine the patient’s teeth and gums to ensure they are free from periodontal disease and cavities. X-rays may also be done in order to check the health of the teeth before considering veneers.

Once a patient has decided to move forward with dental veneers, they need to have their teeth prepared. The teeth that will be covered with veneers will be filed down to reduce the thickness of enamel on the tooth structure. Then, dental impressions are made to get a precise replica of the natural tooth. This is used by a dental ceramist to fabricate the final veneer to ensure it fits perfectly in the smile. Patients return to the dental office to have the porcelain veneers bonded in place.

How long do veneers last?

When patients take good care of their smile, they can expect their porcelain veneers to last a long time, typically a decade or longer.

Patients should be cautious about how they treat their veneers, avoiding activities such as biting on nails or chewing on ice or pencils, as the porcelain may break or crack. If this happens, the restoration will need to be replaced and this can become an added cost.

Additionally, patients should make sure that their teeth and dental restorations are protected from clenching and grinding, also called bruxism. Bruxism often happens when patients are sleeping and is usually outside of their control, so patients with this condition who are considering porcelain veneers should speak to the dentist and discuss whether they need an oral appliance to wear at night to protect their investment.

Taking a proactive approach to protecting your teeth is one way to extend the longevity of not only your veneers, but also the health of your existing teeth.

Who is a candidate for porcelain veneers?

Any patients who need to address imperfections of the teeth that are visible when they smile are encouraged to book a consultation visit to discuss veneers and other restorations for which they may be good candidates.

Learn more about porcelain veneers and other restorations available in our office

Dr. Port and his team at Family Dental Health of South Asheville are here to assist patients in and around the Arden, NC community with the services they need to look and feel their best. Family Dental Health of South Asheville is equipped with the latest technology and the highest quality materials for enhancing the smile, while still keeping treatments affordable for patients on a budget. If you are ready to discuss dental enhancements or restorations, call the office located at 600 Julian Lane, Suite 610 at 828 585 4049, (828) 684-1633.