8 Things To Know About Veneers

When you’re asked to smile for a photo, do you instantly feel uncomfortable because of your teeth? You may have crooked, broken, or discolored teeth that make you feel self-conscious about your smile. However, there are options that your dentist can offer to improve your smile and make you confident every time you flash those pearly whites. 

Healthy Teeth With Veneers

Along with healthy teeth, it’s crucial to have a healthy bite. This is especially difficult when the integrity of the teeth is compromised. One product commonly used in cosmetic dentistry to improve how teeth look and function is veneers. Let’s look at what this dental product is and who would benefit from it.

1. What Is a Porcelain Veneer?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that a dentist will bond to the front surface of your teeth. A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth to create an appropriate, bondable surface. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth and create a custom-fit veneer. Each person has a different need regarding size, so working with your dentist to get the look you want is essential.

Ready to improve your smile? Veneers may be a good option for you. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

2. How Long Do Veneers Last?

When veneers have correctly adhered to your teeth, you should expect them to last ten to fifteen years. They’ve very durable, they’re resistant to stains, and they are far less likely to decay than your actual teeth. 

However, proper care is important. Veneers are a lot like your natural teeth—the better you take care of them and practice good oral hygiene, the longer they will last. The coating on veneers can chip and break if they’re hit or exposed to hard surfaces, so you’ll need to be just as careful as you would be with your own teeth.

3. How Do Veneers Work?

Dental porcelain laminates are incredibly thin shells made out of tooth-colored material. They fit over the front of your teeth to improve their look and add protection to the teeth. The shells are professionally bonded to the teeth using a cementation technique. The result can be very different from what the original look was in color, size, length, and shape.

4. Are There Different Types of Dental Veneers?

Porcelain

Though expensive, porcelain varieties of laminates are safe and attractive. They don’t cause damage to the surrounding gum and soft tissues, and they have the potential to impact your smile dramatically. They require a bit of tooth shaving before applying, but they’re strong, durable, smooth, and experience minimal plaque buildup over time. It’s also easy to match them to the surrounding teeth.

Composite

The composite version is made from inorganic and organic materials bonded together in a product similar to fillings. It’s less robust than the porcelain variety, but they carry a lower price point.

Lumineers

Lumineers have a short life expectancy, and they are made out of very thin porcelain material. Shorter preparation is needed beforehand, and less natural tooth is removed before application. They are also reversible.

Not sure what type of veneer is best for you? Our dental team can determine the ideal fit for your teeth. Contact us today!

5. What Problems Do Veneers Fix?

Different types of veneers can address different issues with your teeth. Some problems that can be fixed by veneers include:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Uneven smile
• Worn-down teeth

6. What Are the Benefits of Veneers?

You can address many different dental concerns with a simple veneer coating on your teeth. Veneers have many benefits:

• Stain-resistant
• Provide a whiter smile
• Require minimal enamel removal
• Improve overall appearance
• Look and feel natural
• Low maintenance

7. Are Veneers Permanent?

Porcelain laminates will remain on the tooth for well over ten to fifteen years when taken care of properly. Because some of the individual tooth needs to be shaved down before applying the product, you’ll need to replace the covering if it ever falls off or becomes damaged.

8. Veneers vs. Dental Implants – Which Is Better?

A dental implant replaces the entire tooth and involves oral surgery and a lengthy recovery time. In contrast, a veneer is applied to the front or back of an existing tooth with little to no downtime at all. Whatever condition you’re dealing with will determine which option you should use. Your dentist will make a recommendation based on your situation.

RELATED: What to Expect After Dental Implant Surgery

Dental Office Near Me

Is there a dental office near me? If you’re ready to find out more about investing in a dental veneer to fix an issue with your teeth, you can reach out to the team at Absolute Dental. Veneers are a very common procedure used on many of our clients. We can work with you to determine if you’re a good candidate for this cosmetic dentistry option. Contact us today to find out more or to schedule an appointment!