Dental veneers are a viable solution if you want perfect-looking, all-white teeth. They can also protect your teeth effectively. If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, for example, if you have chipped, uneven, or misaligned teeth or teeth with gaps between them, dental veneers can be a great choice of treatment.
Here, we will discuss all the ins and outs of dental veneers and whether they are the right choice for your current needs.
What Are Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, film-like, customized layers that are colored like your teeth. They are specifically designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, mainly to improve their appearance (for aesthetics purposes), although in some cases they may also aid with functionality.
The dental veneers are bonded to the front of the teeth, and will effectively transform their shape, size, length, and especially color.
They are commonly used to address various dental issues such as:
- Discolored, yellow-colored teeth. Discoloration and stains may be caused by medications, excessive fluoride, root canal treatment, smoking, and some other factors. Note: this is mainly done when the teeth are stained and can’t be whitened by bleaching.
- Chipped, worn-down, or broken teeth.
- There is a large gap between teeth, especially the upper front teeth, i.e., the ones everybody sees when you smile.
- Uneven spaces between teeth that are misaligned or have an unusual shape.
Different Types of Dental Veneers
Dental veneers can be made of mainly two different materials: composite resin or porcelain. Each type has its own benefits and disadvantages:
Composite Resin Veneers
The composite resin material is tooth-colored and is bonded to the tooth using a special light.
Here are some unique benefits of composite resin veneers:
- Typically will require fewer visits to the dentist, and might only take just one visit to finish implementing.
- Less tooth enamel needs to be removed compared to porcelain veneers.
- Generally more affordable than porcelain veneers.
- Composite veneers are not as durable and strong as porcelain veneers, but at the same time are easier and faster to repair when they get damaged.
Composite materials used today are non-destructive to the structure of your teeth, can last a very long time, and provide that lovely smile you seek.
Porcelain Veneers
A thin shell of porcelain that is customized to fit the tooth perfectly. Also called porcelain laminates.
Here are some benefits of porcelain veneers, especially when compared to their composite resin counterparts:
- Stronger and more durable than composite veneers, but at the same time more difficult to repair.
- They have a more natural-looking surface.
- They don’t stain easily.
Porcelain veneers are generally the more expensive option. Your dentist will help you choose the best material for you; one that is appropriate for your teeth, budget, and perhaps some other factors.
Things To Know Before Dental Veneers Procedure
Dental veneers might be a significant investment, and since they are mainly done for cosmetic purposes, they might not be covered by your health insurance. On the other hand, veneers are permanent. Some of your enamel might need to be removed to allow the veneer to bond properly with the surface of your tooth.
Therefore, be sure about your decision. Here are some important considerations before you go ahead with a dental veneer procedure:
1. Check Your Dental and Oral Health
Have a thorough check-up beforehand. You need to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy and strong enough for the veneers to bond properly. For example, if you have bruxism i.e., you have the habit of clenching your jaw (biting down hard) and grinding your teeth, you might need to treat that first.
There is a risk of damaging the veneers if you keep grinding your teeth and/or clenching your jaw.
2. Budget
Veneers are one of the most expensive dental procedures; dearer than dental bonding or teeth bleaching/whitening. However, they do offer more benefits and are generally longer-lasting than other treatments that people undergo for cosmetic puproses.
Dental veneers are effective for staining that can’t be treated by regular whitening. They also look more natural than dental bonding and are more stain-resistant, especially porcelain veneers.
Veneers leave more of the tooth intact compared to dental bonding. They are generally recommended more often than other procedures when you are only looking to fix a cosmetic issue. If, however, there is significant damage to the underlying tooth, your dentist will probably recommend a crown instead.
3. Durability/Longevity
Although we’ve mentioned that veneers are generally long-lasting and designed for permanent usage, remember that they won’t last forever. You will eventually need to replace them.
With proper maintenance, good oral hygiene, and regular visits to the dentist, veneers can last up to ten and even 15 years. If you notice that they are beginning to loosen, contact your dentist immediately.
4. Maintenance After Veneers
Veneers, although very durable, can break or chip under high pressure. Avoid chewing hard objects or biting your fingernails. Since there’s an extra layer added to the front of your teeth, it may take a few days before you get used to the “feel” of your new veneers. If they don’t feel right, tell your dentist straight away, preferably before you leave his or her practice.
You can still get decay and cavities on the underlying teeth under the veneers, or adjacent teeth that were not included in the treatment. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once daily, and visit your dentist once every six months for regular check-ups and cleaning.
Final Words
As established, although your dentist removes a minimum amount of tooth enamel as possible, the process is permanent for your teeth. Discuss your expectations, budget, and treatment options with your dentist so you can be absolutely sure before before going ahead with the procedure and spending your hard-earned money.
Dentists at Skymark Smile Centre provide various dental veneer options to meet your needs. They also have some options for patients on a tight budget. Give them a call and their team of professionals will help you discuss the best possible options for your specific requirements and preferences.
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Interesting related article: “How to keep your teeth and gums healthy.”