Veneers:
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know
If you’re in the market to brighten your smile or replace teeth that have been damaged, veneers may be an excellent option for you. Thanks to their great aesthetics and long-lasting predictability, veneers have become a very common restorative procedure for anterior teeth. There is, however, a variety of preparation methods and material types. So, if you’re the type of person who likes to be informed before going into a procedure, look no further.
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What is the Difference Between Veneers and Crowns?
You may be considering getting a crown or crowns rather than veneers. Both can improve the look and function of your teeth, and both have their purpose. The biggest difference, aside from price, is that a veneer covers the front surface of your tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. With a crown, more of your tooth needs to be ground down to prepare for the crown placement.
How Do Veneers Work, and Which Material Should I Get?
Laminate veneers come in various materials, including the most popular, porcelain and veneers. Porcelain veneers are typically thin shells of porcelain adhered to the outer surface of the tooth. While similar, composite veneers are engineered resin affixed to the outer surface. Both are made to match your teeth, brighten, whiten, and improve your overall smile.
How Does Your Dentist Prepare Your Teeth for Veneers?
When dentists prepare your teeth for a veneer, your dentist will reshape the surface of your existing tooth by an increment equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added to its surface. Your dentist will decide whether or not to numb the area before grinding your enamel.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
Veneer lifespans vary based on the material, either porcelain or composite veneers. Porcelain veneers typically last from 10 to 12 years, and composite resin veneers only last about 4 to 8 years. But, depending on your oral care routine and other habits, the duration can vary.
What if My Veneers Are Damaged or Come Off?
Some veneers have been known to come off due to a few reasons. Poor adhesive can lead to a veneer coming off prematurely, as can tooth decay beneath. Patients who grind their teeth or don’t practice proper oral care can experience early loosening of porcelain or composite veneers as well. Don’t worry, there’s a treatment for damaged veneers too, and it’s always best to see your dentist for their professional opinion of which treatment is best for you.
Which Type of Veneer Should I Choose?
It’s always best to consult with your doctor to see which they prefer for your exact situation. Now you’re also prepared with a host of information to help inform your conversation. Overall, veneers will help to restore, beautify, and repair your teeth when done correctly.
Veneer FAQs
Veneers are thin shells typically made of porcelain or composite resin custom-made to fit over the front surface of teeth. They improve the appearance of teeth by altering their color, shape, size, or length. They are a popular cosmetic dental treatment for correcting dental imperfections such as discoloration, chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution to enhance a person’s smile and overall dental aesthetics.
Dental veneers are an ideal option for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of their smile and correct dental imperfections such as discoloration, chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth. They are suitable for individuals with healthy teeth and gums who desire a cosmetic enhancement rather than significant structural changes to their teeth. However, potential candidates must have a dentist to determine if they are the right choice for their specific dental needs and to ensure they understand the process and potential outcomes.
Dental veneers offer several advantages, including their ability to improve the appearance of teeth by masking imperfections such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. They provide a natural-looking solution that is durable and stain-resistant, enhancing the overall aesthetics of a person’s smile.
They are also minimally invasive compared to other dental procedures, requiring only a thin layer of enamel to be removed from the tooth’s surface before placement. Additionally, they can often be customized to match the surrounding teeth’ color, shape, and size, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.