What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells made of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing the color, shape, size, or length, and can be used to treat a variety of cosmetic concerns, such as chipped, broken, discolored, or smaller-than-average teeth. Generally made from porcelain or resin-composite materials, they are permanently bonded to the teeth and cannot be removed. Veneers are a long-term solution to many cosmetic issues and a great way to enhance your smile.
What are the benefits of having dental veneers?
The benefits of getting dental veneers are numerous. They can help you bypass the need to wear braces, allowing you to achieve a straighter smile in just a couple of appointments. You can also precisely design exactly what you want your smile to look like, down to the size and shape of each tooth. You’ll also enjoy immediate results that you can feel proud of showing off and a quick turnaround with only two visits about two weeks apart. You’ll find yourself smiling and laughing more often, boosting your self-confidence and quality of life.
Dental veneers are also beneficial in improving the natural appearance of teeth, allowing you to cover up chips, severe discoloration, gaps, and small or oddly shaped teeth. They are stain-resistant and can last for more than a decade, making them a semi-permanent investment.
Compared to other dental treatments such as teeth whitening, braces, or retainers, veneers offer a more natural look, can be selected to make dark teeth appear whiter, and require less shaping than crowns but look better are stronger.
What is the procedure for having dental veneers done?
The procedure of having dental veneers done typically requires two visits to the dentist spread over six weeks. The first visit is for diagnosis and treatment planning, during which your dentist examines your teeth and takes X-rays to ensure that dental veneers are the right choice for you. They will also help you select the best tooth color from a shade chart and create a customized plan for the procedure. On the second visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth by trimming off a small amount of enamel from the front and sides and making an impression or mold of the teeth. The mold is then sent to a dental laboratory to create the veneers. Once the veneers are ready, the dentist will place them on your teeth to check their fit and shape. When the veneers are in position, the dentist will clean and polish the tooth and etch it to allow for a strong bonding process. A special cement is then applied to the veneer and placed on the tooth, and a light beam is used to harden the cement. Finally, the dentist will remove any excess cement, check your bite, and make any necessary adjustments. You may need to return for a follow-up visit in a couple of weeks to check your gums and the veneer’s placement.
What are the results of having dental veneers?
The results of having dental veneers can be dramatic, taking you from a chipped, cracked, misshapen, or stained tooth to an evenly shaped, naturally colored tooth. Veneers can improve the natural appearance of teeth and give the appearance of a ‘real’ tooth, so others won’t notice they are veneers. They are usually well-tolerated, and the procedure isn’t overly painful, with recovery typically going smoothly. Porcelain veneers are especially stain-resistant and should remain white and bright for their lifetime with proper dental care. Veneers can fix various dental issues, from broken teeth and gaps to cracks or replace old fillings. Overall, dental veneers may be the way to go if you want to enhance your smile and make a lasting investment in your quality of life.