Van Nuys Doctors
Plastic Surgeon
Recent Answers
Would Veneers Fix Worn Down Bicuspids? (photo)
I was wondering whether dental veneers would be able to bring back the length and point of my bicupids? I went to a dentist who wasn't very skilled and he shaved the point down way too much, my smile doesn't look half as broad now, and you can see the back part of the tooth when I smile because there's no length on the front side. - Photo included
A: Porcelain Veneers Can Restore length to your teethI am sorry about your experience with your doctor, but do not be disheartened. Porcelain veneers are the best choice for restoring the length and structure of your teeth. There should be no need for reduction since this is an additive procedure. Make sure you work with your orthodontist and express your desire to have a wider smile before the placement of your veneers.
How Durable Are Veneers Compared to Real Teeth?
Are there any precautions I need to take if I were to get veneers? For instance, like not eating hard foods, or hot/cold foods? Are veneers hard to break? If I accidentally bang my tooth with a spoon will a crack easily? Whomever answers, THANKS FOR ANSWERING :)
A: Durabilty of Veneers and Precautions to takePorcelain Veneers are as durable as your own teeth as long as you take care of them. Your real teeth can crack if you use them as a tool to open wrappers, lids and other objects. If you hit your real teeth with a spoon or you fall your real teeth can crack or break off. This applies to veneers as well. You do not crush ice or bite down on really hard candy with either real teeth or veneers. You need to take the same precuations with both. Sensitivity to hot or cold is not affected with application of veneers. You need to make sure your bite is correct before Veneers are placed so there is noextra stress being placed on them. You need to be aware if you are clench or grind your teeth and, if so, wear a bite guard at night to protect the veneers. When a veneer fails, it is usually due to poor hygiene on the part of the patient. You need to brush regularly with a soft brush, floss and get regular dental checkups so there is no gum recession where decay may start under the veneer. Longevity for this procedure is great .Veeners are a good cosmetic fix and will create a beautiful smile! Good luck!
How Long Will the One Invisilign Retainer Included in my Treatment Last?
Should I be taking any precautions in cleaning/caring for it so that it will last longer? Can I go to any orthodontist to order more or must I return to the original? Since no mention was made of Vivera or a subscription of more than one set, (my doctor simply said that they would order them from Invisilign and the cost was included in the price of my treatment), I'm wondering what happens when this set has worn out.
A: Invisalign Retainers and Hidden Costs?Invisalign retainers by Vivera are supplied to you every three months for 2 years for a fee. Often times, patients are not told by their dentist thhey will be in retainers for the rest of their life after their invisalign procedure. It is a neccessary to keep the teeth in place so they do not move back to where they were before you started invisalign! My suggestion is, if you are having a hard time affording the expense of the vivera retainers, go with a conventional acrylic retainer that will last at least 5 years or more. It may not be as comfortable as the invisalign retainers, but make sure you wear the retainer! Your teeth will not stay in place and will naturally move back if you do not use some form of retention for the rest of your life.