You recently decided that you want to get porcelain veneers to correct issues with your smile. They are an excellent way to fix problems like chips, cracks, gaps, minor alignment issues, and misshapen teeth. The process is fairly simple, and your dentist will fit you with a set of temporary veneers before they attach your permanent ones. You may be wondering: why do I need two different sets of veneers? Read on to find out why temporary veneers are necessary, how they’re different from permanent ones, and the right way to care for them.
Temporary vs. Permanent Veneers: What’s the Difference?
To prepare your teeth to have veneers attached to them, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel. This allows the veneers to adhere to the teeth and seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile. Since it usually takes a few weeks for your permanent veneers to be made, your dentist will fit you with temporary ones made from dental wax, acrylic composite, resin, or other materials. They may not exactly match the color of your teeth and aren’t as durable as permanent veneers. Your dentist will also use just enough dental cement to attach them to your teeth for a few weeks.
Why Do I Need Temporary Veneers?
Now that we know what the difference is between permanent and temporary veneers, why do you have to wear them? There are three main reasons why your dentist will have you wear them, including:
- Appearance –Since your teeth will look a little strange once your dentist has prepared them, temporary veneers will make them look normal while you wait on your permanent ones.
- Sensitivity – About 1/2 mm of enamel is removed to place veneers, which can make your teeth more sensitive than usual. Temporary veneers protect your teeth and prevent pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic things.
- Test drive – Temporary veneers will help you get an idea of what permanent ones look and feel like so you can ask your dentist to make adjustments before they’re placed if necessary.
How to Care for Temporary Veneers
It’s important to make sure you take good care of your temporary veneers so they continue to protect your teeth and look their best until your permanent ones are placed. The best ways to keep them in good condition include:
- Practice good oral hygiene – Brush twice and floss once per day to prevent cavities. The alcohol in mouthwash can weaken the bonding on your temporary veneers, so consider cutting back.
- Avoid stain-causing foods and drinks –Coffee, tea, dark sodas, red wine, berries, and other foods and drinks that can stain your veneers should be avoided or consumed with caution.
- Avoid sticky and hard foods –Sticky and hard foods should be avoided as they can easily dislodge your veneers.
Taking care of your temporary veneers will keep your smile healthy until your dentist attaches your permanent ones. Before you know it, you’ll be sporting the beautiful beam of your dreams!
About the Author
Dr. Med Dawoud, Dr. Paula Gencarelli, and their talented West Orange team at D&G Dental offer porcelain veneers that can correct cosmetic problems with your smile. They can teach you the best way to care for them so your gorgeous grin stays bright and beautiful for years to come. Call D&G Dental at (973) 731-2200 or visit their website for more information on the veneers process or to schedule a consultation.