The Natural Tooth Underneath

Before veneers are placed, your natural teeth must undergo preparation. This typically involves removing a very thin layer of enamel from the front surface of each tooth. This allows the veneer to adhere properly and ensures a natural-looking result. Once this enamel is removed, the exposed tooth may appear slightly smaller and rougher in texture, but it still maintains its structure and function.

It’s important to understand that the tooth underneath the veneer is not “ruined.” It is simply reshaped to accommodate the restoration. However, because of the enamel removal, veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic dental solution—once placed, the tooth will always need to be covered, either with a new veneer or another restoration.

Why Veneers Are Placed

Patients choose veneers for many reasons, including discoloration, gaps, chips, minor misalignment, or worn enamel. They are known for their natural appearance, strong durability, and a brighter, more uniform smile.

If you’re ever curious about what your teeth look like beneath veneers, know that they are still your natural teeth—just refined and reshaped for aesthetics and function.

Trust Our Expertise at Harder Dental Corporation

From the moment you walk through our doors, our welcoming team is committed to your comfort and well-being. Drs. Harder, Pham, and our experienced associates offer gentle, personalized care backed by over sixty years of combined clinical experience. We’re especially trusted by families and children throughout Irvine for our patient-first approach and calm, friendly demeanor.

Harder Dental Corporation is also proud to be a green dental office, using environmentally conscious practices and the latest dental technologies—including digital X-rays and eco-friendly sterilization systems—to protect your health and the planet.

The Top Priority: Your Smile

We provide a complete range of dental services, from cosmetic solutions like veneers and Invisalign to essential care such as fillings, crowns, and cleanings. Whether you’re considering veneers for the first time or need ongoing care, our Irvine team is here to help you achieve and maintain your healthiest smile.

Contact Harder Dental Corporation in Irvine today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how veneers can enhance your smile—inside and out.

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Commitment to Compliance

In contrast to traditional braces that are bonded to the teeth, Invisalign aligners are removable. While this feature offers greater flexibility and convenience, it also requires a high level of commitment from the patient. For optimal results, it is recommended that you wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, only removing them for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.

Regular Maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial to the success of your Invisalign treatment. Clean your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals to prevent bacterial buildup and odors. Avoid exposing your aligners to hot temperatures, as they can warp and lose their effectiveness.

Potential Discomfort

Like any orthodontic treatment, Invisalign may cause some discomfort initially as your teeth adjust to the aligners’ gentle pressure. You may experience temporary soreness or irritation, especially when transitioning to a new set of aligners. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help alleviate discomfort during this period.

Compliance with Treatment Plan

You can better strengthen your results by following additional treatment recommendations. This includes wearing each set of aligners for the prescribed duration and attending regular check-up appointments with your dentist or orthodontist. Failure to follow your treatment plan can prolong the duration of treatment and compromise the final outcome.

Cost Considerations: While Invisalign offers numerous benefits, including aesthetics and convenience, it may be more expensive than traditional braces in some cases. However, many dental insurance plans offer coverage for orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Be sure to explore your insurance options and discuss payment plans with your dental provider to make treatment more affordable.

By considering these factors and discussing your options with your dentist at Harder Dental Corporation in Irvine, you can make an informed decision about whether Invisalign is right for you. We also serve the surrounding Tustin, Costa Mesa, or Lake Forest areas. We’re here to help you achieve the smile of your dreams with personalized orthodontic care and support. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about Invisalign and transform your smile with confidence!

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Avoid Smoking

Smoking can significantly compromise the success of your dental implants. It restricts blood flow to the gums, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of implant failure. Additionally, smoking stains the teeth and can contribute to gum disease, which can jeopardize the stability of your implants.

Limit Hard and Sticky Foods

While dental implants are durable, they are not completely immune from damage. Avoid biting down on hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candies, as they can exert excessive force on the implants and potentially damage them. Similarly, sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can adhere to the implants and increase the risk of bacterial buildup.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of your implants treatment. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth and around the implants. Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth and prevent infection.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can dehydrate the body and inhibit proper healing after dental implant surgery. It can also weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Limit your alcohol intake, especially during the initial healing period, to promote faster recovery and minimize complications.

Protect Your Implants During Physical Activities

If you participate in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of facial injury, wear a mouthguard to protect your dental implants. Accidental trauma to the mouth can dislodge or damage the implants, necessitating costly repairs or replacements.

By following these guidelines and avoiding harmful habits, you can ensure the long-term success of your dental implants from Harder Dental Corporation. If you have any questions or concerns about your implant care, don’t hesitate to contact our office in Irvine, which also serves the areas of Tustin, Costa Mesa, or Lake Forest. Your smile is our priority!

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Traditional Braces

Braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets that are bonded to the teeth, connected by wires and elastic bands. They provide effective and precise tooth movement for various orthodontic concerns, including complex cases. Braces are fixed appliances, meaning they are not removable, which ensures continuous treatment progress. They require periodic adjustments and may cause discomfort or aesthetic concerns for some patients.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that utilizes a series of clear, removable aligners. These aligners are custom-made using advanced computer technology to gradually move the teeth into their desired positions. Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly. They can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, providing more flexibility and ease of maintenance compared to braces.

Factors to Consider

To choose between braces and Invisalign, several factors should be considered. Complexity of the case, treatment duration, aesthetic preferences, lifestyle, and oral hygiene habits all play a role. Braces may be recommended for more severe bite issues or if you prefer a fixed treatment option. Invisalign is often suitable for milder cases, offers greater convenience, and can be an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a more discreet orthodontic solution.

When deciding between braces and Invisalign, it is essential to consult with an experienced orthodontist. At Harder Dental Corporation, our skilled team can evaluate your specific needs and provide expert guidance on the best orthodontic treatment for you. Whether you opt for traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners, you can trust our commitment to delivering exceptional care and helping you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to a beautiful smile.

The post Is it Better to Choose Braces or Invisalign? appeared first on Harder Dental Corporation.

Normal Wear and Tear

While veneers are durable and designed to withstand daily wear, they are not invincible. Over time, regular activities such as biting, chewing, and grinding can cause normal wear and tear on veneers. As a result, they may become worn, chipped, or cracked, compromising their appearance and functionality.

Staining and Discoloration

One of the main reasons patients seek veneers is to improve the color and brightness of their teeth. However, veneers can also become stained or discolored over time, especially if proper oral hygiene practices are not followed. Certain foods, beverages, and lifestyle habits such as smoking can contribute to the staining of veneers, leading to a less attractive smile.

Gum Recession and Dental Decay

Veneers are attached to the front surface of the teeth, but they do not cover the entire tooth. In cases where the gums recede or dental decay develops near the edges of the veneers, replacement may be necessary to ensure optimal oral health. Harder Dental Corporation in Irvine recommends regular dental check-ups to detect any potential issues early and prevent further complications.

Changes in Bite Alignment

Misaligned or crooked teeth can be corrected using veneers. However, if the underlying cause of misalignment is not addressed, the bite may shift over time, leading to problems with the veneers’ fit and function. If this occurs, it may be necessary to replace the veneers and consider orthodontic treatment for long-term bite correction.

While veneers are a long-lasting dental solution, they may require replacement due to normal wear and tear, staining, gum recession, dental decay, or changes in bite alignment. If you notice any issues with your veneers, it is important to consult a dental professional for an evaluation. At Harder Dental Corporation, our experienced team is here to provide comprehensive dental care and address any concerns you may have about your veneers.

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1) Have a Full Dental Exam and Professional Hygienic Cleaning Twice Per Year

In six months, a small cavity or a gum infection can become serious, but is still treatable. At Harder Dental, we know how important it is to address such problems with preventative dental care. Your dentist may recommend having a digital x-ray (which involves minimal radiation) to take a closer look at areas such as between teeth that are hard to see or to check on how strong your jawbone is (if an infection sets in there, it needs to be dealt with immediately). Your hygienist has the tools and techniques that can scrape away plaque (the bacterial film that forms around tiny particles of food that have not been removed) or even tartar (which is what plaque becomes when it hardens). She may recommend an anti-bacterial solution be injected or an implant in a problem area to be sure an infection is stopped.

2) Brush for Two Minutes Twice Per Day and Floss Before Bedtime

Few of us were taught exactly how to brush and floss correctly. You should use a soft bristle brush and gently stroke outwards at a 45° angle from the gum line to the end of the tooth on both front and back, ideally after breakfast and dinner. Flossing can also be challenging: make sure you hold the floss so that it is in contact with both sides of each tooth. If you have questions about technique, ask your hygienist to show you. 

3) Eat Healthier Food and Less Sugar

It has been shown that your oral health will improve if you eat more vegetables, nuts, whole grains, beans, and legumes, which have fiber that stimulates saliva production which prevents bacteria from flourishing. Dairy or alternatives, including yogurt and kefir, have calcium and phosphorus that keep teeth hard. Sugar eats away the surface enamel of teeth and makes them vulnerable to decay, while also feeding periodontal bacteria (there are healthier alternatives, especially xylitol, which actually improves oral health). Chew sugar-free gum after meals to help clean up bacteria and strengthen your jaw.

4) Minimize Harmful Habits

Smoking (anything) especially affects the health of your mouth, so at least reduce it. If you drink lots of coffee, tea, and red wine, finish with water or brush afterwards to keep these from staining your teeth. If you unconsciously grind your teeth at night (your dentist can tell by the wear-and-tear), ask about having a night guard custom-made to prevent further damage. 

A healthier mouth in the New Year will mean a happier you, with the confidence to flash a full and friendly smile to everyone you meet.

The post Tips for a Healthier Smile As Your New Year’s Resolution appeared first on Harder Dental Corporation.

Remember, the end of the calendar year is also the end of the benefits year, and you don’t want to leave any unused benefits behind when we make the jump into 2022. 

Whether you have dental insurance that you subscribe to personally or have insurance sponsored by your employer, your plan will provide a set amount of coverage per benefits year, which typically starts in January and ends in December. If you have any unclaimed benefits come New Year’s Eve, they are gone forever by morning. 

Plan to make the best use of your benefits by checking in with your dentist now. Although treatment is never recommended according to insurance policy benefits, your dentist can identify any potential issues with your oral health that would be prudent to treat now, while you have available funds to cover the procedures. For example, many patients postpone crown work because they want to avoid the discomfort and disruption. However, it’s smart to get the work done when the insurance benefits are available and before the problem has had a chance to get worse. 

Plus, by booking your dental appointment now, you can avoid the “busy season” in November and December, when clinics typically see a rush of patients who want to get a checkup in before the benefits year comes to an end. 

Book your appointment 

Don’t wait to book your dental checkup. Schedule your appointment today and your dentist can help you plan to make the most of your benefits and finish the year with a bright, healthy smile.

The post Why It Is Important to Use Your Dental Benefits appeared first on Harder Dental Corporation.

When we’re confident, we feel good about ourselves and that radiates out of us in a way that is very noticeable to others. When we speak and move with confidence, it communicates to the world that we are ready, willing, and able to take on anything, to rise to any challenge, and to meet any occasion.  

The question then becomes, how do we achieve this life-changing level of confidence and enjoy all of the benefits it offers?

Simply put, confidence comes from believing in yourself and looking the part, which includes a strong, healthy, shining, beautiful smile. 

Why smiling is key to success

A smile is a powerful thing. It not only broadcasts to the world that you are a confident, self-assured person, smiling can actually trick your brain into feeling happier and more at ease. Treatments such as veneers, Invisalign, dental implants, and more are important to restoring a healthy, shining smile.

When you have a smile that you’re proud to show off, it becomes much easier to grin, laugh, and engage with other people in a carefree and confident way. People who are shy about their teeth have a much harder time relaxing and enjoying all of the benefits that a beaming smile provides. 

If you want to have a smile that you can feel more confident about, there are several dental treatments that can help you achieve your goal. From in-office dental restorations that repair cracked, chipped, or broken teeth to take-home whitening treatments that upgrade the brilliance of your smile, your dentist can work with you to address whatever is holding you back from feeling good about your teeth. 

Book your appointment 

Start creating the smile of your dreams today. Schedule your appointment and your dentist will discuss your options for creating a bright, white, healthy smile that will have you looking and feeling confident all day, every day.

The post A Healthy Smile Is a Gateway to Confidence appeared first on Harder Dental Corporation.

According to the American Dental Association, there are 15 million dental injuries a year from sports, resulting in the loss of five million teeth. Millions more are chipped or cracked. The nerves of the teeth, the tongue, lips, and other soft tissues of the mouth can be harmed. A blow from an elbow or equipment could cause a concussion. Dental work, such as braces or bridges, can be damaged. The cost of going to an available dentist to do emergency repairs and provide basic medical care is likely to be high. Yet a study reported that although a majority of children participated in organized sports, 84% of them do not regularly wear mouthguards.

A customized dental mouthguard is a simple, inexpensive, and the best way to keep your child safe. Over-the-counter versions are cheaper, but they do not provide nearly the level of protection and comfort that Harder Dental can provide. We use only the highest quality material and design each with the help of a dental lab to fit the contours of your child’s mouth. Our special mouthguards also make it easy to breathe and speak (the same cannot be said about other types).

Be sure your child, friends, teachers, and coaches know this needs to be worn during any recreational physical activity, not just contact sports. This also applies outside school, of course, since serious injuries can occur just from playing basketball in the driveway or football in the street. Gymnastics, skateboarding, and mountain biking can be hazardous. Insisting on a mouthguard is not being over-protective, it is just the smart and realistic way to minimize the impact not only on your own child, but the responsibility of others if an accident happens.

Discuss with us what to do about dental work and oral appliances. Mouthguards are generally created to protect just the upper teeth. But if he or she has braces or other fixed dental work on the bottom, we will recommend how to protect them. Before playing sports, all dental appliances such as orthodontic retainers should be removed (Invisalign aligners for the upper teeth are usually the exception, since a mouthguard should protect them).

You and your dentist, working with others, will keep your child safe.

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