3 Things to Consider Before Getting Porcelain Veneers

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Having porcelain veneers placed on teeth to cover flaws is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. Everyone knows they can create a gleaming celebrity smile that looks natural, so that no one would ever know you once had teeth that were chipped, cracked, crooked, misshapen, worn down, hopelessly discolored, or full of gaps. They always increase self-confidence, since you can flash a full, friendly smile to everyone you meet. But there are three things to consider before veneer treatment can start.

They are not actually appropriate for everyone, at least not right away. That’s why a full dental exam, including a digital x-ray (involving very little radiation), is necessary to determine whether you first need a boost in your overall oral health. Even if you have had a history of avoiding cavities and periodontal disease, as we get older a healthy mouth is harder to maintain and it needs to be in good shape before veneers can be considered.

It is possible for an infection to spread from the gums into the jawbone without any pain. Small bad habits can create problems, such as not brushing for a full two minutes twice a day or flossing carelessly. Some patients find they need to start adding a small-bristle brush, an electric brush, or a water pick to their routine, as well as having a professional hygienic cleaning more often.

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If you avoided having orthodontic treatment as a teen because your friends hated wearing the wires and the dietary restrictions, you will be happy to know that Invisalign transparent aligners can straighten crooked teeth gently, as preparation for veneers.

If you have been grinding your teeth unconsciously while you sleep, further damage can be avoided by having a personalized nightguard made, protecting both teeth and veneers.

You need to consider the shade you would like for your teeth and the veneers. Veneers are translucent, so if your teeth are naturally dark or dark roots are showing, you will need to have a professional teeth whitening first, to the shade that you want for your veneers. Keep in mind that porcelain veneers cannot be whitened once crafted by the dental lab, though they are very resistant to the most common sources of discoloring, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.

Think about how veneers will fit into your ideal smile design. You and your dentist should discuss what your ultimate smile should look like and how veneers will move towards that goal. Depending on the shape and structure of your face, the size of your teeth, your jaw, and current and possible future dental needs, the final decisions on how to proceed with veneers should be driven by an overall smile design.

Call for an appointment today to discuss your best options for a better smile.

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