What Are Veneers
Most people want to improve their smiles. One way to do so is through the application of dental veneers. Dental veneers are wafer-thin, translucent shells that are applied to a tooth’s exterior with a special bonding solution. They are usually made of resin or porcelain and patients notice a marked difference in the appearance of their teeth after veneers are applied. However, many people may be curious about the veneer process and what they are exactly. In fact, one of the most common medical questions posed to dentists is: what are veneers? Here is a brief explanation on veneers and how they are enhancing the smiles of numerous people across the country.
Why Veneers?
Veneers are custom-made shells that are usually applied to the front of the teeth so that visible tooth surfaces are transformed into an optimized look. Patients seek veneers because they help to make their smile more attractive. With the help of veneers, patients can achieve uniformity with their teeth with regards to color, shape, and length. Benefits of veneers include whitened teeth, color matching, symmetry, and an overall aesthetically pleasing appearance. Veneers help to address the following dental concerns:
Resin Versus Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are usually made of resin composite or porcelain. Composite veneers are the more affordable option and they are typically used to fix minor cosmetic issues such as chips in teeth. They can also be used to fill gaps between the teeth. Veneers require less treatment than porcelain but their quality may not be as long-lasting as porcelain. For example, composite veneers are prone to discoloration over time. However, with the proper daily care, they can last for many years to come. Porcelain veneers, are the more expensive option but they are a satisfactory investment for many. Application of porcelain will require several dental appointments as the dentist customs the shell and properly preps the teeth for application. Porcelain helps with more severe dental issues such as discoloration, cracks, or broken teeth. Porcelain typically last longer than resin composite veneers and they maintain their luster over time. To choose the best material, discuss these options further with a dentist near you who specializes in veneers.
Why Veneers?
Veneers are custom-made shells that are usually applied to the front of the teeth so that visible tooth surfaces are transformed into an optimized look. Patients seek veneers because they help to make their smile more attractive. With the help of veneers, patients can achieve uniformity with their teeth with regards to color, shape, and length. Benefits of veneers include whitened teeth, color matching, symmetry, and an overall aesthetically pleasing appearance. Veneers help to address the following dental concerns:
- Chipped teeth
- Teeth with broken edges
- Discoloration and stains from coffee, wine, and soda
- Gaps in the teeth
- Improper length
- General misalignments
- Repositioning of the teeth
- Excessive gum tissue
Resin Versus Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are usually made of resin composite or porcelain. Composite veneers are the more affordable option and they are typically used to fix minor cosmetic issues such as chips in teeth. They can also be used to fill gaps between the teeth. Veneers require less treatment than porcelain but their quality may not be as long-lasting as porcelain. For example, composite veneers are prone to discoloration over time. However, with the proper daily care, they can last for many years to come. Porcelain veneers, are the more expensive option but they are a satisfactory investment for many. Application of porcelain will require several dental appointments as the dentist customs the shell and properly preps the teeth for application. Porcelain helps with more severe dental issues such as discoloration, cracks, or broken teeth. Porcelain typically last longer than resin composite veneers and they maintain their luster over time. To choose the best material, discuss these options further with a dentist near you who specializes in veneers.
The Application Process
To apply veneers, a thin layer of the original tooth is removed by sanding down its surface. The amount that is removed is based on the extent of the issue such as depth of discoloration, tooth misalignment, etc. Next, a plastic impression is made of the tooth and it is then fine tuned to the appropriate size to fit the patient’s mouth. Next, the actual veneer is painstakingly crafted to exactly match the tooth, including its unique size and required color. The veneer is then attached to the outside of the tooth with a special bond and is then polished to perfection. After this, routine dental care will be required to maintain the health of the teeth and gums as well as the appearance of the veneers. Also keep in mind that as with any medical procedure, there are a few risks associated with veneer application. These may include: acute nerve irritation, damage to neighboring teeth or damage to the gums or lips during application. Speak to a dentist to discuss the health risks of veneers which will help with making the most informed decision as to whether veneers are the best procedure to pursue.
Achieve a cosmetically attractive, long-lasting look with veneers. Dental veneers contribute to the rehabilitation of the teeth in that they transform them and address many dental problems including discoloration, gaps in teeth, and can even help with the curve of gum line tissue when it is misaligned. While there are many ways dental patients can improve their smiles, dental veneers are a preferred choice by many. Veneers help to solve unsatisfactory tooth issues and they represent some of the highest quality aesthetic work available.
To learn more about veneers, their types, their application, and if they are a good fit for the patient’s dental needs, contact a dentist near you today for further information.
To apply veneers, a thin layer of the original tooth is removed by sanding down its surface. The amount that is removed is based on the extent of the issue such as depth of discoloration, tooth misalignment, etc. Next, a plastic impression is made of the tooth and it is then fine tuned to the appropriate size to fit the patient’s mouth. Next, the actual veneer is painstakingly crafted to exactly match the tooth, including its unique size and required color. The veneer is then attached to the outside of the tooth with a special bond and is then polished to perfection. After this, routine dental care will be required to maintain the health of the teeth and gums as well as the appearance of the veneers. Also keep in mind that as with any medical procedure, there are a few risks associated with veneer application. These may include: acute nerve irritation, damage to neighboring teeth or damage to the gums or lips during application. Speak to a dentist to discuss the health risks of veneers which will help with making the most informed decision as to whether veneers are the best procedure to pursue.
Achieve a cosmetically attractive, long-lasting look with veneers. Dental veneers contribute to the rehabilitation of the teeth in that they transform them and address many dental problems including discoloration, gaps in teeth, and can even help with the curve of gum line tissue when it is misaligned. While there are many ways dental patients can improve their smiles, dental veneers are a preferred choice by many. Veneers help to solve unsatisfactory tooth issues and they represent some of the highest quality aesthetic work available.
To learn more about veneers, their types, their application, and if they are a good fit for the patient’s dental needs, contact a dentist near you today for further information.