Do you have aesthetic flaws in your smile, like chips, cracks, stubborn stains, mild overcrowding, or slight gaps? If so, you could benefit from porcelain veneers. These thin ceramic shells are customized to look as realistic as possible and then bonded to the front surface of your teeth to mask imperfections.
Although they can potentially last 15+ years if cared for correctly, there’s a chance you may need to replace your restorations at some point down the road. However, it can be hard to know when it’s time to get them updated. Continue reading to learn three signs that you need new veneers!
Indicator #1: They Don’t Look Good
Veneers are durable enough to shield the underlying teeth from chipping and staining, but their primary function is to hide unsightly issues that detract from your appearance. It can take some time before they start to show their age, but eventually, they start to look drab after years of daily use. It defeats their purpose if your covers are cracked, discolored, or worn down. Thankfully, your dentist can fit you with a new set to once again restore your smile and boost your confidence.
Indicator #2: Your Gums Are Receding
These covers are made from durable ceramic that doesn’t develop tooth decay, leading some patients to believe that they don’t need to worry about cavities anymore. Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth!
The underlying teeth are only partially covered and are still vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease. If your connective tissues are infected, they will pull away from your enamel in their attempt to escape. This can cause your veneers to become loose or fall off altogether. If you notice signs of oral issues, it’s best to call your provider immediately to address them before they can progress.
Indicator #3: They Feel Uncomfortable
It’s normal to develop mild sensitivity when your veneers are new because some of your enamel must be removed to fit correctly. However, any negative sensations typically dissipate on their own after one or two weeks. If you have pain that persists over time or gets worse, especially when you bite down, it could point to a problem with your prosthetics. If they don’t fit correctly, they can cause aches, changes to your speech patterns, and a possible malocclusion (bite misalignment.)
Fortunately, your dentist can work with you to thin them so they don’t cause issues or refit you with new ones to safeguard your smile.
Now that you know what signs to look for, you can get new veneers to perfect your smile once again!
About the Practice
At Mt. Holly Family Dentistry, you and your loved ones benefit from two dentists who are passionate about helping you build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Dr. Cygler and Dr. Genco share 17+ years of combined experience providing a full array of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location. They take the time to get to know you and then build fully individualized treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Plus, their welcoming office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate results. If you need new veneers, you can request an appointment on the website or call (609) 267-3230.