Are you feeling self-conscious about your smile? Being able to flash a brilliantly white smile is something that we would all like to do, and dental veneers are one of the best ways to do this. These are one of the most versatile forms of cosmetic dentistry and help individuals to transform their smile and address various issues.
Although an extremely common type of dental treatment, it is only natural that you will have several questions about what it is and what you can expect. That is why we have taken a closer look at what the process entails and answered some of the most common questions customers ask.
What are dental veneers exactly, and how do they work?
As mentioned, dental veneers are one of the most common types of cosmetic dentistry and are designed to help you transform your smile. Each of these veneers is a thin porcelain shell that resembles a fingernail.
Each one is created to fit over the outer enamel of your tooth, creating a perfect finish. These veneers can be used over a single tooth, perhaps after trauma or due to a cavity, or over multiple teeth to ensure a uniform and attractive smile.
Thanks to being made from porcelain, these veneers are incredibly durable and long-lasting, guaranteeing that they will continue to look fantastic for decades. Each veneer is bonded to your original tooth using a specialist bonding material that is designed to keep them securely in place. Once fitted, the veneers should feel completely normal in your mouth.
Although some veneers can be made from resin, porcelain is the preferred choice thanks to its ability to resist stains and reflect light in a similar way as real teeth.
Do my teeth have to be prepared before fitting dental veneers?
As dental veneers fit directly over your existing teeth, your dentist will need to remove a little of your existing enamel to ensure the perfect fit. By removing this enamel, it ensures that the veneer not only fits comfortably in your mouth, but it also guarantees that your teeth do not appear too thick or large when you smile.
Some patients are nervous about this removal process, but it is undertaken using a local anesthetic, so you can have complete peace of mind that it will not hurt. However, while the process will not hurt, it is important to remember that enamel does not grow back, so once you have the procedure, you will need to always need veneers in order to cover and protect your teeth.
Once your dentist has shaped your teeth, they will then create an impression of your teeth to ensure the dental veneers fit perfectly. The creation process typically takes several weeks to be completed, but in the meantime, your dentist will fit temporary veneers so you can eat and smile as normal.
What issues can dental veneers be used to fix?
Dental veneers can be used to resolve a wide array of issues. Some of the most common reasons for opting for veneers include:
- Fixing spacing issues among your teeth, including large gaps between teeth.
- Replacing undersized teeth to create a uniform and attractive smile.
- Restoring any teeth that might have become set back in your arch.
- Overcoming severely stained or discolored teeth due to root canals, resin feelings, excessive fluoride, and much more.
- Fixing teeth that have become damaged due to chips or cracks.
Of course, these are just several reasons why you might want to opt for dental veneers. If you are unhappy with your smile and want to give yourself the smile that you deserve, then speak with your dental provider today to see if you would be suitable for veneers.
Are dental veneers permanent?
Having dental veneers fitted to your teeth is a permanent procedure that means you will not have your original smile again. You will not be able to remove your veneers as you please; otherwise, you will have an unsightly smile and risk exposing the nerves in your teeth to hot and cold drinks, creating sensitivity.
Porcelain is a very long-lasting and durable material, and with the right care and maintenance, your veneers will be able to last for several decades. However, over time the material can begin to break down and show signs of wear and tear. This means that you will need to get them replaced in order to keep your teeth protected and your smile looking its very best.
What do you need to do to keep your dental veneers looking their best?
Thankfully, keeping your dental veneers looking their best and your smile as bright as possible is very simple. Porcelain is a very strong and naturally beautiful material, and with regular brushing and flossing as you would with your normal teeth will ensure that they remain in the best condition.
However, although it is a very strong material, you should remember that they can still break. That is why you should avoid using your teeth as tools by trying to open bottles or placing them under any unnecessary stress. You should also try to avoid certain types of food and drink that contain tannins, such as coffee and red wine, as this can cause staining. Smoking can also be very harmful and cause your teeth to begin to yellow, meaning your veneers will need to be replaced sooner.
What are the benefits of dental veneers?
There are many benefits to having dental veneers fitted to your teeth, including:
- Helping to provide a natural and beautiful smile, no matter the current condition of your current teeth.
- The porcelain material is incredibly long-lasting and durable.
- Porcelain is also well tolerated by your gums and mouth, ensuring you will not face discomfort or issues.
- Porcelain dental veneers are also very resistant to staining. This ensures that with a regular cleaning routine, you will be able to enjoy a bright and white smile.
- Veneer bonding is also highly durable, so you will not face the risk of them falling out over time.
- Veneers are typically much easier to fix compared to other types of dental work. Crowns often require further shaping and fixing to ensure a smooth and flush finish. Veneers, on the other hand, generally do not require that same level of shaping, ensuring it is a quicker and smoother procedure.
Transform your smile
If you are unhappy with your smile, then dental veneers can be a fantastic way to transform your smile and give you the confidence to flash your pearly whites. However, it is important to remember that it is a permanent procedure, and you will not be able to undo the shaping process, meaning you will always need to have veneers.
So if you are looking for your dream smile, give Preston Sherry Dental Associates a call today to find out how dental veneers could help you.