What Are Dental Veneers - And How Do They Work?

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells that are custom-made to cover the front surface of a tooth. They are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, both of which can be color-matched to your natural teeth. Dental veneers are designed to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, stained, misshapen, or have other cosmetic flaws.

How do Dental Veneers Work?

Dental veneers are typically placed over two or three dental appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the affected teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. This helps to ensure that the veneer will fit properly and look natural. After the teeth have been prepared, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth, which will be used to create the custom veneers.

Once the veneers have been created, you'll return to your dentist for the second appointment. During this appointment, your dentist will place the veneers on your teeth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit. The veneers will then be permanently bonded to your teeth using a special adhesive.

What are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

There are many benefits to choosing dental veneers as a cosmetic dentistry treatment option. Some of the most significant benefits include:

Improved Appearance: Dental veneers can improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, misshapen, or have other cosmetic flaws. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth and improve the appearance of slightly crooked teeth.

Durability: Dental veneers are made from strong, durable materials that can last for many years with proper care. Porcelain veneers are particularly durable and can last for up to 15 years.

Stain-Resistance: Porcelain veneers are also highly resistant to stains from coffee, tea, wine, and other common sources of tooth discoloration. This means that your veneers will continue to look bright and white for many years after they are placed.

Natural Appearance: Dental veneers are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, and the materials used are designed to mimic the translucency of natural tooth enamel.

Easy Maintenance: Dental veneers require no special maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing. You should continue to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings, but otherwise, your veneers should require no special care.

But... Dental Veneers Aren't For Everyone!

While dental veneers offer many benefits, it's important to keep in mind that they may not be suitable for everyone. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your treatment options with you to determine if dental veneers are the best choice for your needs.

Sometimes the best Sonicare toothbrush can do wonders that even the highest quality veneer will not accomplish.

It's also important to note that while dental veneers can improve the appearance of teeth, they are not a replacement for good oral hygiene. Proper brushing and flossing are still essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

If you do decide to get dental veneers, it's important to choose an experienced dentist who has the knowledge and skill to create a beautiful, natural-looking result. Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients to get an idea of what to expect from the treatment.

Finally, it's important to remember that dental veneers are a cosmetic treatment, and as such, they may not be covered by insurance. Be sure to discuss the cost of treatment with your dentist and explore financing options if necessary.

Conclusion

If you're looking to improve the appearance of your teeth, dental veneers may be a great cosmetic dentistry treatment option for you. They are durable, stain-resistant, and designed to look and feel like natural teeth. Talk to your dentist to find out if dental veneers are right for you, and start enjoying a brighter, more confident smile today.