Dental veneers are one of today's most versatile cosmetic treatments. They are wafer-thin sheets of porcelain or composite material that cover the tooth surfaces that show when you smile. Dental veneers can cover a wide variety of esthetic issues in one efficient step.
How Dental Veneers Work
Since dental veneers cover the tooth's visible surface, they can correct the appearance of several esthetic issues. The issues include:
- Gapped teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Stains and discoloration
- Slightly misshapen teeth
- Slightly misaligned teeth
Types of Dental Veneers
There are three primary types of dental veneers. Your cosmetic dentist will recommend the type that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
Porcelain Veneers
Thanks to their porcelain composition, these veneers are highly stain- and chip-resistant. Porcelain provides the most realistic effect because it has a luster like healthy enamel.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are less costly than porcelain but offer many of the same benefits. They are also more easily customized.
Instant Veneers
Instant veneers are made of prefabricated resin. Your dentist may be able to place them in just one appointment. They are efficient and affordable, but they do not offer all the benefits of porcelain veneers.
The Dental Veneers Process
Step 1: Material Choices
The first step in receiving your veneers is selecting their material. Your cosmetic dentist will help you decide which type of veneers meets your needs and choose a realistic but attractive shade.
Step 2: Impressions
Your dentist will take a set of digital impressions to ensure your final veneers are shaped like your natural teeth.
Step 3: Enamel Preparation
The next step is removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth surfaces. Smoothing the enamel allows the veneer to fit flush against the natural tooth.
Step 4: Impressions
Another set of impressions allows the dentist to design perfectly fitted veneers. You will go home with temporary veneers to safeguard your prepared teeth.
Step 5: Fabrication
The lab will make your veneers, carefully crafting them to provide the best possible appearance.
Step 6: Installation
The dentist applies a thin adhesive layer and secures your veneers. You will walk out of the office with a stunning smile.
Replacing Veneers
While porcelain veneers last about 10 to 15 years, they are easy to replace when they show signs of wear. Since the dentist removes tooth enamel to install the veneers, you will need to have them replaced at the end of their lifespan.
How to Care For Veneers
Veneers are strong and can stand up to daily wear, but you will need to take some precautions to prolong their lifespan.
Avoid opening packages, using your teeth as tools, or holding objects with your teeth. Take caution when eating hard foods while you have veneers. Avoid chewing pens, ice, or hard objects like popcorn kernels.
Be aware of foods and drinks that may stain your veneers, like coffee, tea, and red wine. Composite and instant veneers may chip and stain more readily than porcelain.
Dental Veneers: An Excellent Value
Dental veneers represent an investment in your self-confidence and quality of life. When you have a brighter, healthier-looking smile, you will want to share it with everyone you meet. You may feel better about your appearance and feel ripple effects that extend into your personal and professional lives.
Veneers can take the place of several separate cosmetic procedures like bonding and teeth whitening. If you add up the cost of the procedures you can replace with veneers, you will recognize their significant value.
It isn't easy to put a price on your self-confidence and peace of mind. When you have dental veneers, you'll have the satisfaction of looking and feeling your best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
Is it uncomfortable to get veneers?
Getting veneers is easy. During the preparatory visit, your dentist will provide local anesthesia to ensure you feel no discomfort.
Am I a good candidate for dental veneers?
Patients who meet these criteria may be excellent candidates for veneers:
- Healthy teeth and gums with no untreated gum disease or tooth decay
- Robust tooth enamel
- Chipped teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Misshapen teeth
Call Total Dental Care
While veneers may seem like a luxury, you will quickly see how they can improve your self-image and quality of life. To inquire about dental veneers, please call our Germantown, MD, office at 240-813-9111 today.