Porcelain Veneers Santa Monica CA

Porcelain Veneers An Overview

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic solution to a range of dental concerns. Similar to a contact lens, dental veneers are ultra-thin shells that attach to the front surface and sides of the affected tooth. They cover the front and sides completely, making them an ideal solution for various cosmetic concerns.

Dr. Dall’Olmo conservatively uses dental veneers to enhance a smile with a stable oral foundation.

What Porcelain Veneers Treat

Porcelain veneers can treat a wide variety of cosmetic problems. Traditionally, professional teeth whitening is the solution to treat discolored teeth. But not all staining responds to traditional whitening techniques. Deeper staining from medication or discoloration from trauma can’t be handled with teeth whitening. Porcelain veneers can be any shade of white and completely cover the front and sides of the discolored tooth.

Cosmetic chips and cracks are common as we age. The years and lifestyle habits take their toll on our teeth. Veneers can give a more youthful look to your smile. They cover small cracks and chips and make your smile brighter as well.

Crooked teeth and gaps between teeth are big issues that many of us face. You may not need orthodontic intervention if these don’t impact your overall oral health. Porcelain veneers are able to give you back the appearance of a smooth, even smile. Each one is individually crafted. We can make the veneers look natural while still masking those imperfections.

Porcelain Veneers Benefits

Porcelain veneers are popular because they can treat almost any cosmetic concern. We color-match them to any shade of white that you desire so that they match your smile perfectly. You can make your smile as bright as you want.

If you have multiple cosmetic concerns with your teeth, porcelain veneers can treat all of them simultaneously. We shape the veneers so that they’re unique to what fits your smile, covering small gaps and making your smile straight and even. If there are any chips or cracks, veneers give you back the appearance of a full, complete tooth.

Porcelain Veneers What to Expect

Teeth that are to be treated using dental veneers will first be prepared by removing a substantial amount of tooth enamel. Then, molds will be taken from the teeth and sent to a dental lab to create the dental veneers. Veneers can be custom-shaped and color-matched to match the natural, beautiful smile. The size and shape are crafted to look natural in your mouth.

Once fabricated, we permanently bond veneers to the prepared teeth. Dental veneers are designed to be a permanent restoration and can not be reversed due to the removal of tooth enamel. You’ll always have some sort of restoration on the teeth we prepare for veneers.

Dental veneers can cosmetically repair the aesthetics of the smile. Since this is a cosmetic dental procedure, it is important to ensure that teeth are healthy and functional before treatment. Dental veneers are one of the dental services that Dr. Dall’Olmo offers his patients in Santa Monica, California.

Taking Care of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers can last a long time, but you must take care of them properly. The easiest place to start is by practicing good oral hygiene. Ensure that you’re brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. You can’t get cavities in your porcelain veneers, but you can still get them in the natural teeth under the veneers. The veneers rely on healthy tooth structure. If that’s compromised, you’re at risk of the veneers failing and falling off.

Even though veneers are strong, they can still break if you put too much pressure on them. Try to avoid biting down directly on the veneers when you’re eating hard and crunchy foods. Don’t use your teeth as tools, either. You should never try to open a package or bite down your fingernails with your veneers.

If you grind your teeth, talk to our office about a custom-made mouthguard to wear when you’re sleeping. Grinding is one of the worst things for veneers. It’s a lot of pressure put on them, making them more at risk of breaking or popping off. A mouthguard won’t stop the grinding from happening, but it protects your veneers and natural teeth.

Lastly, visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. We’ll ensure that you’re taking care of the veneers properly and that they’re holding up well. If we see any issues, we can catch them early on and take care of them quickly.

Porcelain Veneers FAQs

How long do porcelain veneers last?: Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent restoration. Depending on how well you care for them, they can last anywhere from 10-30 years. Because we have to remove tooth structure to place them, you’ll always have to have some sort of restoration on that tooth.
When can I eat after getting porcelain veneers?: Wait to eat for about an hour to an hour and a half after getting veneers to eat. During this time, the bonding material used to secure the veneer to the tooth is still setting completely. We also recommend starting with softer foods first.
Can I eat normally with porcelain veneers?: Pretty much, but only after the first few days. We recommend eating a soft diet these first few days as you may still be sore and get used to the veneers. Biting down directly on hard foods is discouraged. Though veneers are strong, they can still break. We also recommend you avoid dark liquids like coffee and tea, as veneers can’t be whitened. At the very least, rinse your mouth out with water after you consume these beverages.
Can veneers get cavities?: No, veneers aren’t susceptible to cavities. However, the teeth underneath them can still get cavities. You can’t slack on oral care just because you have veneers. Ensure you’re still diligent with brushing, flossing, and dental visits.
Can I whiten my porcelain veneers?: The material used for veneers can’t be whitened with traditional whitening techniques. While veneers are stain-resistant, they’ll still yellow and stain over time, especially if you drink staining beverages or use tobacco. If you want a whiter veneer, you’ll have to get a completely new one made for your tooth.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?: Many people are strong candidates for porcelain veneers. You must be healthy, as veneers rely on solid tooth structure. You have to be dedicated to taking care of them for them to last as well. Candidates also have to have enough healthy tooth enamel. People that clench or grind their teeth may not be able to get veneers, as these actions can damage them.