How do I take care of porcelain veneers?

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) suggests brushing and flossing just as you would your regular teeth. Proper daily tooth brushing and use of non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste is ideal. Consider limiting coffee and other stain-inducing foods.

Keep in mind that veneers will need to be replaced at some point; no matter how well you take care of them. But proper oral hygiene will help porcelain veneers last as long as possible.

If you're deciding on veneers, consult with your Glendora dentist and be sure you understand every part of the process and cost. A beautiful smile feels great and can increase both your confidence and well-being.

These are some of the things you can do to take care of your porcelain veneers:

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       Avoid chewing on hard foods or non-food items

 Biting hard candies, chewing ice

 Chewing on pens, biting nails, opening packages with teeth can cause chipping and cracking of the porcelain veneers.

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     Regular dental checkups are important.  Porcelain veneers can collect plaque and tartar buildup the same way natural teeth do, which is why it is important to keep up with your dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice per day, floss daily, and keep your dental cleanings to at least every 6 months.

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     Teeth grinding can cause chipping and damages to porcelain veneers.  Talk to your dentist, as you may need to wear a protective occlusal or bite guard to protect both your natural teeth and teeth with porcelain veneers.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

  Many people may not be aware that they have gum disease because often there is no pain.  There are warning signs.  Call and consult with the Glendora dentist if you experience any of the following:

·       Gums that bleed during brushing

·       Red, swollen or tender gums

·       Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

·       Persistent bad breath

·       Pus between the teeth and gums

·       Loose or separating teeth

·       A change in the way your teeth fit together when biting

·       A change in the fit of partial dentures

How to Prevent Gum Disease:

·       Brush for two to three minutes, at least 2x/day, with fluoridated toothpaste

·       Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

·       Avoid cigarettes and smokeless tobacco

·       Eat a healthy diet

·       Regular dental checkups and dental cleanings with the Glendora dentist, at least once every 6 months

**The good news is that gum disease is preventable.  Gum disease does not happen overnight.  Be aware of the symptoms and if you notice of persistent bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, consult with the Glendora dentist and get help with necessary treatment to protect and preserve your teeth.  Contact the Glendora dentist, Dr. Anna Lee, for a dental checkup at 626-335-5114 or email at drannalee1@gmail.com

Prevention of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

        

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms between the gums and the teeth. If plaque is not removed with brushing and flossing between the teeth, gum tissues that surround the teeth would become irritated and inflamed. The inflamed gum tissues can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth, which can result in tooth loss.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about half of American adults have gum disease and many of them end up losing at least one tooth and often several.  CDC also reports that three out of every four older Americans has gum disease.

There are 4 general stages of Gum Disease:

·       Stage 1:  Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup between the gums and teeth

              Gums bleed easily when brushed or when probed gently during examination

              Gums are inflamed and sensitive to touch

              Possible bad breath and bad taste

              No bone loss, reversible gum disease

·       Stage 2:  Early Periodontitis has slight bone loss that supports the teeth

               Gums may begin to pull away from the teeth

               Bleeding, puffiness and inflammation more pronounced

               Bad breath, bad taste

               Non-reversible gum disease

·       Stage 3:  Moderate Periodontitis-more bone loss

               Gum boils or abscesses may develop

               Teeth look longer as gums begin to recede

               Teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces

               Bad breath, bad taste

               Non-reversible gum disease

·       Stage 4:  Advanced Periodontitis-most severe stage of the gum disease

               Severe bone loss, receding gums, roots may be exposed and are sensitive to hot and cold

               Visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums, loose teeth

               Non-reversible gum disease