So, you recently decided to get porcelain veneers! This is a big step to take to revitalize your smile, but, as the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Before you have your permanent veneers placed, your dentist will fit you with temporary ones. But why? Read on to learn more about temporary veneers and why you need to wear them before getting permanent ones.
What’s the Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Veneers?
To prepare your teeth for veneers, your dentist will remove a small amount of tooth enamel. This will allow the veneers to better adhere to the teeth and blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. It usually takes a week or two for your permanent porcelain veneers to be made. In the meantime, your dentist will fit you with temporary veneers that will look just like your permanent ones. They will be made from dental wax, acrylic composite, resin, or a range of other materials. They won’t always match the color of your teeth exactly, won’t be as durable as permanent veneers, and will have just enough dental cement to hold them on for a few weeks.
Why Do I Need Temporary Veneers?
There are three main reasons why you’ll need to wear temporary veneers, including:
- Appearance –Once your teeth have been prepared for veneers, this will leave them looking a little strange. Temporary veneers will make them look like normal teeth while you wait for your permanent ones to be made.
- Sensitivity – Since about 1/2 mm of tooth enamel is removed to place veneers, this can cause your teeth to feel more sensitive than usual. Temporary veneers shield the vulnerable teeth and prevent them from experiencing pain or discomfort when you consume hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
- Test drive – Wearing temporary veneers can help give you an idea of what your permanent ones will look and feel like. This will allow you to see how you feel about them and ask your dentist to make and the necessary adjustments before they’re placed.
How to Care for Temporary Veneers
Since your temporary veneers protect your smile from harm, it’s important to take good care of them until you can get your permanent ones. Things you can do to care for your temporary veneers include:
- Maintain a healthy smile – It’s vital that you practice excellent oral hygiene while wearing your temporary veneers. Consider cutting back on mouthwash, since the alcohol in it can weaken the dental bonding used to hold them in place.
- Avoided highly pigmented foods and drinks – Some of the materials that temporary veneers can be made of stain really easily. To avoid this, stay away from dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee, tea, cola, red wine, and berries.
- Avoid sticky and hard foods – Your temporary veneers are meant to be easy to remove when the time comes, so avoid sticky foods that could dislodge them.
Your temporary veneers are just a steppingstone to reach the final results, but they’re important to keep your teeth healthy while you wait. You’ll be sporting the smile of your dreams in no time!
About the Author
Led by Dr. Naira Kraipak and Dr. Faizan Ali, Plush Dentistry treats their Frisco patients with the compassion and care they deserve. They offer exceptional oral health services to every member of the family and are dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted through their cosmetic services like porcelain veneers. If you want to make an appointment or have questions about temporary or permanent veneers, call their office at (469) 850-0786 or visit their website.