Porcelain Veneers Frequently Asked Questions
For many patients looking to improve the appearance of their smiles quickly yet effectively, porcelain veneers near Millersville are the ideal option. In only two or three appointments, this treatment can drastically transform your smile and give you the confidence boost you never knew you needed. However, if you’ve never heard of them before, you might have a few concerns about this treatment. For that reason, we’ve included the answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions about veneers down below.
Does getting porcelain veneers hurt?
You very likely won’t experience any discomfort during your veneers preparation and placement procedure. This is because your cosmetic dentist near Millersville will typically administer a local anesthetic to the area, so you shouldn’t feel a thing during your appointment. Of course, you might feel slight soreness for a few days afterward. The more veneers you’re receiving, the more likely you are to experience some tenderness for the next several days. Don’t worry; this is nothing that can’t be managed by taking an over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
In order to place veneers, we’ll need to remove the outermost layer of enamel from your affected teeth. Once removed, enamel unfortunately does not grow back, so veneers are indeed considered a permanent treatment. Because of this, those teeth are always going to need some sort of protection going forward. Veneers have the potential to last for upwards of a decade, but they won’t last forever. When it comes time to remove them, you could either replace them with more veneers or with dental crowns.
What’s the Difference Between a Porcelain Veneer and a Dental Crown?
A veneer is a thin porcelain shell that only bonds to the front-facing surface of a tooth. A dental crown, on the other hand, is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over the entire portion of the tooth that’s visible above the gumline. In most cases, veneers serve a primarily cosmetic purpose, while crowns can also be used to restore or improve a patient’s oral health by protecting a tooth from further damage. Your dentist near Millersville can take a look at your teeth and determine which of these treatments would best benefit your smile.
How Can I Make My Veneers Last as Long as Possible?
In general, the cleaner and healthier you keep the teeth underneath your veneers, the longer your restorations will last. Here are some basic tips to maximize the lifespan of your veneers:
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Gently but thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily.
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Visit us for checkups and cleanings at least every six months so we can detect any potential issues early on.
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Wear a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth while you sleep.
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Wear a mouthguard if you play sports to prevent dental injuries.
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Avoid harmful oral habits like chewing on ice, biting your fingernails, or using your teeth as tools to open packages.
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Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a nonabrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching or dulling the porcelain.