Porcelain Veneers
Even minor cosmetic flaws in your teeth can leave you embarrassed or ashamed to show your smile.
Dr. Louis E. Paulerio can create customized porcelain veneers to cover flawed teeth and make over your smile.
People throughout San Diego can count on Point Loma Family Dentistry to improve their health and smile aesthetics.
The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers:
HOW THEY CAN HELP YOU
A Versatile Solution
Porcelain veneers can do the job of multiple cosmetic dentistry procedures, including teeth whitening, bonding, and even orthodontics.
Durable Porcelain Material
The porcelain used to craft veneers is durable. That means patients can eat their favorite foods and go about their day without worrying about fracturing their veneers.
Natural Appearance
Because porcelain is thin and semi-translucent, it looks just like your natural teeth when in place. No one will notice your veneers, even up close in artificial light.
Resistant to Stains
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant. That means they can't be discolored by foods, beverages, and other substances. You natural teeth can still be stained, however.
Long-Lasting Results
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or longer. When your veneers eventually need replacing, the process is simple and straightforward.
Many people are good candidates for dental veneers and don't realize it. Here's how you know if veneers are the right option for you.
The Basics of Porcelain Veneers
TREATING MANY COSMETIC CONCERNS
Your Front Teeth Have Cosmetic Flaws
Porcelain veneers are designed to hide all sorts of flaws that affect the front teeth. This includes chips, cracks, tooth stains, discolored teeth, gaps, minor misalignment, and tooth asymmetry.
You Have Sufficient Tooth Enamel in Place
In order to place a dental veneer, a small amount of enamel (less than a millimeter) is removed. This is done so the veneer can fit over the flawed tooth properly without jutting out or becoming too noticeable.
You Are in Otherwise Good Dental Health
Veneers are ideally suited for people with cosmetic problems affecting their smile. For patients with serious dental health problems, restorative dentistry or orthodontic procedures may be more suitable.
Imagine Loving Your Smile
Discussing Candidacy
Dr. Paulerio will examine your teeth and go over your goals. He can determine if dental veneers are right for your needs or if different treatment is needed.
Prepping Your Teeth
If you're a good candidate for porcelain veneers, the flawed tooth or teeth will be prepped. This is when a small amount of enamel is carefully removed.
Taking Impressions
After your teeth are prepped, Dr. Paulerio will take impressions. It is from these that a dental lab technician can create fully customized veneers.
Placing Temporary Veneers
While your veneers are fabricated, temporary veneers will be placed to protect your now sensitive teeth.
Crafting Custom Veneers
A dental lab we partner with will create the actual porcelain veneers. Technicians will make sure the veneer fits properly and is color-matched to your teeth.
Placing Permanent Veneers
Dr. Paulerio will check the permanent veneer for fit and aesthetics. After making final adjustments if needed, the veneer is then positioned and adhered to the tooth.
Removing Temporary Veneers
Patients will return to the practice for their second and final veneers visit. At that time, we will remove the temporary dental veneers and clean off their teeth.
Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers
HOW TO MAKE YOUR SMILE LAST
Use the Right Toothbrush
Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Soft bristles are gentle on your veneers and the small head will help you clean the hard-to-reach parts of your mouth.
Apply the Right Toothpaste
Non-abrasive gel toothpastes won't damage porcelain veneers or tooth structure. Abrasive ingredients are like fine-grain sandpaper on your teeth and should be avoided.
Quit Smoking and Tobacco
Smoking may not harm veneers, but it does irreparable damage to the gums, natural teeth, and lungs. An enhanced smile is a good reason to kick the habit for good.
End Damaging Bad Habits
In addition to quitting smoking, people with porcelain veneers should avoid biting their nails, chewing pen caps, and crunching ice cubes to prevent unintentional damage.
Wear Face and Mouth Protection
If you ride a bike, play sorts, or perform any high-risk activity, be sure to wear proper mouth and face protection. A helmet or a mouth guard can save your smile and your life.
Attend Regular Checkups
Regular visits to our San Diego practice every six months allow Dr. Paulerio to monitor the condition of your veneers. When they need replacement, he'll let you know.