Porcelain Veneers
Patient Instructions

Temporary Veneers

• You may have just received a plastic temporary restoration that will serve you for a short period of time while your permanent veneers are being made. They are attached only slightly to the underlying tooth so they can be removed easily.  If you had a CEREC made veneer there usually is not temporary.
• If a veneer comes off, call us and we will replace it immediately. If you are in a situation that will not allow you to come in, place the temporary back in place with some FixodentTM (denture adhesive). You must still see us as soon as possible.
• The size, shape and color of the temporary do not resemble the final veneers in any way.
• Temporary veneers may leak saliva or food onto the tooth. Sensitivity to hot, cold, pressure, or sweets is not uncommon. You may also see stains under the temporaries. These will be removed prior to final cementation.
• Avoid heavy brushing of the temporaries and do not floss between them because you may pull them off. But you must keep your gums healthy by brushing softly and rinsing with the rinse we gave you.
• Your final porcelain veneers will be as close to the natural beauty and function of teeth as possible. They look and feel normal in every way.

Permanent Veneers

We place our veneers with the finest materials and techniques available today. However, you should be aware of the following information about your restorations:

• As with natural teeth, avoid chewing excessively hard foods on the veneered teeth (hard candy, ice, raw carrots, etc.), because the porcelain material can break under extreme forces.
• The doctor may have recommended you wear a bite guard to protect your veneers.  This should be worn nightly and should be replaced if a hole wears through it.  This is particularly important if you clinch or grind your teeth while sleeping.
• Proper brushing, flossing, and regular 6-month (minimal) cleanings are essential to the long-term stability and appearance of your veneers. Often, problems that may develop with the veneers can be found at an early stage and repaired easily, while waiting for a longer time may require redoing entire restorations.
• The gums may recede from the veneers, displaying discolored tooth structure underneath. This situation usually takes place after many years and may require veneer replacement.

Also,
You must remember that any tooth that has had a large restoration or crown may at some point need a root canal.  Symptoms may  include hot or cold sensitivity, pain on pressure or biting, loose tooth, swelling or a sore on the gum near the tooth.  If any of these appear, please have us check the tooth.