Who Is A Candidate For Porcelain Veneers

Are you dreaming of a flawless, radiant smile that turns heads? Look no further than Pierce Family Dentistry in San Diego, CA, where Dr. Jennifer Pierce and Dr. Brandon Pierce can make your dreams come true! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the wonders of porcelain veneers, their benefits, and why they are a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their smile.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers, often referred to as dental veneers, are a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that involves the application of thin, custom-made shells of porcelain to the front surface of your teeth. These veneers are meticulously crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, resulting in a stunningly seamless appearance.

The Porcelain Veneer Process

At Pierce Family Dentistry, our experienced team follows a straightforward process to transform your smile with porcelain veneers:

  • Initial Consultation: The journey begins with a visit to our San Diego office, where you will meet with Dr. Jennifer Pierce or Dr. Brandon Pierce. During this consultation, your specific goals and desires will be discussed, allowing us to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
  • Preparation: To ensure the veneers fit perfectly and look natural, a small amount of enamel is gently removed from the front surface of your teeth. This step is essential to make room for the veneers and ensure they align seamlessly with your other teeth.
  • Impressions: Precise impressions of your teeth are taken to create your customized porcelain veneers. The color and shade will also be carefully selected to achieve the ideal match with your existing teeth.
  • Temporary Veneers: While your permanent veneers are being meticulously crafted in our dental lab, you’ll wear temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth and maintain your appearance.
  • Fitting: Once your porcelain veneers are ready, you’ll return to our San Diego office for their placement. Dr. Jennifer Pierce or Dr. Brandon Pierce will ensure that each veneer fits perfectly and looks natural, making any necessary adjustments.
  • Bonding: The final step involves securely bonding the porcelain veneers to your teeth using a strong adhesive. With this, your transformation is complete, and you’ll leave our office with a dazzling new smile.

Why Choose Porcelain Veneers?

  • Enhanced Appearance: Porcelain veneers can address various cosmetic concerns, such as stained, discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth. They provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution to enhance your smile’s aesthetics.
  • Stain Resistance: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, ensuring your smile remains bright and beautiful for years to come.
  • Minimally Invasive: The preparation process for veneers involves minimal enamel removal, preserving the health and integrity of your teeth.
  • Quick Results: With porcelain veneers, you can achieve a stunning transformation in just a few visits to our San Diego office.
  • Boosted Confidence: A beautiful smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and leave a lasting impression on others.
  • Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last for 10-15 years, providing a durable solution for your smile enhancement.

Additional Insights

It’s essential to note that while porcelain veneers are an excellent option for many, they may not be suitable for everyone. Dr. Jennifer Pierce and Dr. Brandon Pierce will evaluate your oral health and discuss alternative treatments if necessary.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to ensure the longevity of your porcelain veneers. Regular dental check-ups and proper care at home will help you enjoy your enhanced smile for years to come.

Conclusion

Transforming your smile with porcelain veneers at Pierce Family Dentistry in San Diego, CA, is a life-changing experience. Dr. Jennifer Pierce and Dr. Brandon Pierce, with their expertise and dedication, can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Don’t hesitate to contact us at (858) 484-3300 to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident you. Let us be your partners in creating a smile that truly shines!

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If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to bereplaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile.Dentalimplants look and feel natural in the mouth,and last upwards of 25 yearsif they are cared for properly.

At our practice, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options performed. Manypatients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years.Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration optionsavailable to patients.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, andwe encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keepthe implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which canmake them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shiftsout of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contactourdental office immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

  • Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and freeof plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around theimplants.
  • Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
  • Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
  • Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Avoid products thatcontain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. Theseingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Interested in Dental Implants?

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygienehabits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. Our friendly teamis here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answerquestions and help you every step of the way.

If youare interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they may benefit you, contactus to schedule your consultation as soon as possible.

dental restoration

Chipped or injured teeth are typically considered a dental emergency. We offer many cosmetic services,and have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry. If you have a chipped tooth, you may wonder howquick you can get the tooth fixed. Luckily, there area few different treatment options to retore yourtooth back to normal.

We encourage anyone who has chipped their tooth to contact our office right away. We offer a flexibleschedule, and can get you in as soon as possible. In the meantime, we recommend patients can takeover the counter pain medication to alleviate any pain. Eat soft foods,and avoid biting down on thedamaged tooth.

How Can We Repair a Chipped Tooth?

Depending on the severity of the damage will determine what treatment option is best. Ifthe chip issmall a single visit to our office may only be needed. If the tooth is badly damaged, additional treatmentand multiplevisitsto our office may be required.

Bonding or Filling

We can apply atooth-coloredcomposite resin to help repair yourtooth. Bonding is a simple procedureand requires no local anesthesia. To prepare the tooth we file down the area and apply an adhesive. Theresin is then applied on top to restore your tooth. Bonding is the color of your natural teeth,andcanbeformed to match theshape of yoursurrounding teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to cure or harden thebonding material.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers can restore teeth that are chipped or broken. Veneers are a thin shell of compositematerial or porcelain that is placed over your tooth. They are customized to match the color and shapeof your teeth, and look natural. The veneers are placed on your teeth using a cement material.

Dental Crown

If your tooth is severely damaged a dental crown may be necessary. We will prepare the tooth by filingaway the area so the crown fits snug over your tooth. Crowns protect weak teeth from breaking downfurther, and look natural in the mouth. Crowns can be customized to match the size, shape, and color ofyour natural teeth. Typically, crowns are placed after a root canal. If your tooth is damaged down to thepulp area, and there is an infection, a root canal may be necessary to save your tooth.

Looking f or a Cosmetic Dentist?

If you are interested in finding a cosmetic dentist that provides quality and affordable dental care youcan trust, contact us today. Chips in your teeth can be serious, and we encourage you to be seen rightaway if you have an injury to your tooth.

To schedule your appointment with us, please contact us today, and our friendly staff will be happy toassist you!

 
dental bridge
Dental bridges help to bridge the gap between one or more missing teeth. Bridges have one or more crowns or implants on either side of the gap and false teeth in-between them. If you have a gap caused by a missing tooth and that gap is embarrassing, a bridge may be right for you. Bridges are typically made from porcelain material, and this looks natural and blends in with your other teeth. There are many different types of bridges available.  Depending on how many teeth are missing, and if you have natural teeth on both sides will help decide what type of bridge is recommended.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is a type of bridge with two anchoring crowns on either side of the replacement tooth. This is the most popular type of bridge, and is used when the gap has natural teeth on both sides.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth. This type of bridge is not used as much anymore, and it not as common as the other options. Cantilever bridges tend to put too much pressure on other teeth and this can cause damage.

Maryland Bonded Bridge

This type of bridge has metal or porcelain wings, and these are bonded to the existing teeth. Maryland bridges are made out of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal.

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is similar to the traditional dental bridge, but is supported by a dental implant. The implant is inserted into the jaw and the bridge is attached above the gum line. This type of bridge has an advantage over the other types and helps to prevent bone loss. Implant supported bridges are the most stable compared to other bridge options. Surgery is required to insert the implant and does take longer.

What Are the Advantages With Dental Bridges?

  • A dental bridge offers an effective solution for tooth replacement. Bridges are aesthetically pleasing and help restore mouth function.
  • Helps to maintain structure in the mouth and hold teeth in place to reduce shifting and bite issues.
  • Helps to reduce bone loss and maintains facial structure.
  • Is comfortable in the mouth and feels like a natural tooth.
  • Does not require removal for cleaning. Bridges should be cleaned just like natural teeth with brushing and flossing daily.

Looking To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if a bridge is right for you, scheduling a consultation in our office is the first step. Dental bridges are affordable and a reliable solution for missing teeth. Let us help you get that perfect smile! To schedule your consultation please contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you.
wisdom teeth recovery

Wisdom teeth are the back molars in our mouths and tend to erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. Most people do not have enough room in their jaw for wisdom teeth to properly erupt. Wisdom teeth can be impacted, or cause issues once they erupt such as overcrowding or infection.

If you require wisdom teeth surgery you may wonder how the recovery will be. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and recovery tends to be pretty easy. The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal is around a week. This depends on the person, and in some cases, the recovery period may take longer if the wisdom teeth are impacted.

What Can I Expect During My Recovery?

Wisdom teeth surgery is done in one appointment, and anesthesia is typically used to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed. After your surgery, you will be brought into a recovery room where you will be monitored until it is safe to go home. We require all patients to bring a family member or friend to the surgery to help get them home safely.

A few hours after your surgery you will regain feeling in your mouth. Swelling and some bleeding are normal, and this should subside after a few days. A cold compress can be used on your mouth at home to help with any swelling or pain. Our team will discuss pain medications, and give you instructions you can take home.

We recommend all patients follow a soft food diet and avoid any alcohol or tobacco products. Patients should avoid using a straw as this can aggravate the surgery area and cause complications. On average patients begin to feel fully recovered around three to four days after their surgery. Patients should follow good oral hygiene habits to help keep the surgery area clean and avoid infection. If you notice any prolonged pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, please call our office to be seen right away.

Looking for Wisdom Teeth Removal and Want To Learn More?

If you are interested in finding out more about wisdom teeth removal contact Pierce Family Dental. Our doctors have years of experience in wisdom teeth removal and provide the highest level of care. If you are experiencing any pain, or think you may have an issue with your wisdom teeth, we recommend contacting us right away. Any issues with wisdom teeth should be addressed immediately to avoid complications. 

To find out more, or to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation, contact Pierce Family Dental today!

dental cleaning

Taking care of our teeth is important and can help avoid problems or unnecessary visits to the dentist’s office later in life. We recommend patients visit our office for their cleaning and exam at least twice a year. These appointments are crucial and can help maintain your oral health and detect issues before they become serious. Bacteria and plaque build-up over time and your toothbrush at home can only remove so much. Dental cleanings are easy and the typical dental cleaning and exam only take approximately 30-45 minutes. This depends on the condition of your teeth and if any problems are identified.

At Pierce Family Dental prevention is extremely important. We help our patients review their oral hygiene routine at home and recommend changes to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Many patients avoid visiting the dentist due to anxiety or fear. At Pierce Family Dental we create a calm and relaxing experience and can help you get the dental care you need. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients achieve the perfect smile.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

When you visit our office, we create a calm and welcoming environment. Our treatment rooms are updated with the latest technology and equipment. During the visit, we thoroughly clean each patient’s teeth using special dental tools to remove any plaque or tarter. Our team will examine the condition of both your teeth and gums to ensure everything looks healthy. We take x-rays and create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our team will perform an oral cancer screening by checking your mouth, throat, neck, and tongue for any areas of concern. Our doctor will meet with each patient to discuss any areas of concern and follow-up visits.

Why Are Dental Cleanings and Exams Important?

Getting comfortable visiting the dentist and attending your regular cleaning and exam appointments can help set the stage for the future. Dental exams allow our doctors to get in front of any issues early on, and this can help prevent serious issues from developing in the future. During your exam, we can detect broken fillings, cavities, or other oral concerns. Our team can remove plaque and tartar that brushing at home cannot reach. We recommend patients brush and floss daily at home to help keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling great. If you ever notice any pain or discomfort, we encourage you to contact our office right away, and we will ensure you are seen as soon as possible.

Are You Due for Your Regular Dental Cleaning and Exam?

If you are ready to schedule your dental cleaning and exam, we encourage you to contact us. Let our team help you care for your teeth and keep your smile looking its best. We provide exceptional service and quality dental care you can trust.

To schedule your appointment and join our dental family, contact Pierce Family Dental, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

dental veneers

Veneers help patients who have discoloration from dental procedures or stains from food and drugs restore their teeth. Veneers can also help those that have chipped, broken, or uneven teeth. Veneers create an even smile, close gaps between teeth, and look natural.

Veneers are similar to shells that cover the surface of teeth. They are made out of a porcelain material and are highly durable. Veneers are stain resistant, and can last between 10-15 years. Once you have your veneers placed it is important to take good care of your teeth. Veneers can become damaged just like any other tooth. Following a good oral hygiene routine at home, and taking good care of your teeth is important to help lengthen the life of your veneers. If you are looking for a long-lasting permanent solution to help restore your smile, veneers can help.

How To Care for My Veneers?

There are things you can do to help take good care of your veneers and lengthen their life. Never bite down on any hard objects or food with your veneers. If you suffer from bruxism or clench your teeth, we recommend wearing a mouthguard to prevent damage to your veneers. Stay away from biting your nails as this also damage your veneers.

Veneers are extremely durable and are a great solution for patients seeking that perfect smile. They can last for years if they are taken care of properly. Always brush and floss your teeth daily to keep your veneers looking and feeling great. We recommend visiting our office twice a year for your exam and cleaning. Our doctors can make sure your teeth are healthy, and your veneers are in good condition.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Veneers?

If you are interested in finding out how dental veneers may benefit you, contact Pierce Family Dental. Our doctors have years of experience in restoring smiles, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted. Let our team help you restore your confidence, and give you a smile that looks natural, and is long lasting.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Pierce Family Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

dental bonding

If you have decided to restore your smile dental bonding is a great option. Bonding is not permanent, and can be reversed if necessary. Bonding is very durable, and if you have any wear or tear it can be repaired easily. This treatment can take care of cosmetic issues, is quick, and less expensive compared to other options. Dental bonding is great for repairing decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth. Bonding can even correct discolored teeth, and looks natural.

The composite material used can be shaped to match your natural teeth. Other benefits include changing the length of a tooth, or closing spaces between teeth. The procedure can typically be done in one day, and no anesthesia is needed. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years before the composite material begins to wear down.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding does not require any removal of your tooth enamel. During the process your tooth is gently etched using a mild acid solution to help roughen the surface. This allows the composite material to bond to your tooth easily. The tooth-colored resin material is applied to the area, and is then cured with an ultraviolet light. Your tooth is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth. This process takes between 30-60 minutes.

Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding requires the patients to take care of the area that was bonded. The composite material used is very durable, but is never as strong as your natural teeth. With dental bonding there is risk of the bonding material separating from the tooth. Dental bonding can also chip or break. This is unlikely, but we do recommend patients do take care of the area that was bonded to avoid any complications. The good news is that dental bonding can be repaired. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years or longer if taken care of properly.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are ready to find out more about how dental bonding may benefit you, contact Pierce Family Dental. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted.

To schedule your appointment with us, contact Pierce Family Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

dry mouth

Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia, and this happens when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva in the mouth. In some cases, dry mouth is temporary, and can be caused by dehydration. In other cases, dry mouth is a chronic problem, and many struggle with this issue. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, or can be caused by an infected salivary gland.

When we do not have enough saliva production this can cause oral health issues. Saliva plays an important role in our oral health, and helps to protect our teeth and gums from acids or erosion. The saliva washes away bacteria or food, and keeps our teeth and mouth healthy.

What Issues Can Dry Mouth Cause?

Dry mouth can cause many issues including gum disease, tooth decay, staining, and erosion of enamel. When bacteria are not washed away, and plaque and tartar collect, this can cause gum disease, and in turn this increases the risk of tooth decay and cavities. If not treated gum disease can cause tooth deterioration, or even tooth loss.

When your saliva production is low the bacteria and acids stay on your teeth longer, and this can lead to tooth decay or enamel erosion. If the acid and plaque levels are high, your teeth can become discolored or stained. It is always important to attend your regular dental exams and cleaning appointments to ensure your teeth and mouth are healthy, and do not have any decay.

How Can I Treat Dry Mouth?

The good news is there are ways to treat dry mouth and restore the health of your teeth and gums. Depending on the level of damage will determine what treatment is required. Restoration options include fillings, crowns, or gum treatments.

Tips To Prevent Dry Mouth

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
  • Use an over-the-counter saliva treatment or substitute
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping to increase moisture in the air
  • Chew sugar-free gum to help saliva production
  • Stay on top of your oral health routine, and brush and floss daily to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup

Ready To Find Out More?

If you are suffering from dry mouth, and have concerns about your oral health, we encourage you to contact Pierce Family Dental. Scheduling a consultation with our team is the first step towards healthy teeth and gums. Our doctors will perform a thorough exam, and provide treatment recommendations that work for you. Dry mouth can lead to serious issues, and should always be addressed right away.

To schedule your appointment, please contact Pierce Family Dental, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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