There are some things in life that are only temporary while we wait for the final thing. A too-short haircut. Long car rides. Waiting for your drink at Starbucks. It is the same thing while achieving your dream smile! Getting veneers is a process and as you wait for your permanent smile, you will wear a temporary cosmetic enhancement for about two weeks. Your cosmetic dentist in St. Augustine will tell you all that’s needed to know about this important—but temporary—step in the process.
What Are the Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Veneers?
The only difference is the material that they are made from. Your permanent veneers are made from porcelain, which is more endurable and closely resembles your pearly whites. Temporary ones are made from dental wax, acrylic composite, resin, or other materials. They won’t match the color of your teeth exactly and won’t be as durable. You will have just enough dental cement to hold them in place for the two weeks that you wait for your permanent ones to arrive.
Why Do I Need Temporary Veneers?
There are three main reasons why you’ll need to wear temporary veneers:
- Appearance –Your dentist prepares your teeth for permanent veneers by removing a small amount of enamel from your teeth. Temporary veneers will make them look like normal teeth while you wait for your permanent ones to be made.
- Sensitivity – Your teeth will feel more sensitive than usual due to the enamel removal. Temporary veneers will shield the vulnerable teeth and prevent discomfort when you consume hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
- Glimpse Into the Future – Wearing temporary veneers will give you an idea of what your permanent ones will look and feel like. This gives you time to ask your dentist to make any necessary adjustments before your permanent smile arrives.
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. Some tips include:
- 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.
- Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Routine – It’s important to keep your usual dental habits of brushing and flossing in place while wearing your temporary veneers. Consider forgoing mouthwash since the alcohol in it can weaken the dental bonding used to hold your temporary veneers in place.
- Avoid highly-pigmented foods and drinks –The materials that temporary veneers are made from can stain easily. Take a break from dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee, tea, cola, red wine, and berries.
Your temporary veneers are just a step in the process of achieving your picture-perfect smile. With your dentist’s help and your extra care, your permanent smile is on its way!
About the Author
Salt Run Family Dentistry serves St. Augustine and surrounding areas through the expertise of Dr. Mickey Leth and Dr. Bert Tavary. With decades of experience, their top priority is high-quality service as you achieve the smile of your dreams! Using advanced dental technology, their cosmetic dentistry can meet all your smile enhancement needs, from teeth whitening to veneers. If you would like more information about the process of veneers, contact them at their website or call—or text!– (904) 824-3540.