Do you have chipped, stained, worn or misaligned teeth? One way to improve the overall look of your smile is with dental veneers.
What are dental veneers?
They are thin shells of either porcelain or composite that cover the front part of your teeth. Veneers are custom-made and are designed to look natural. You can have veneers on one or many teeth, depending on your needs.
Types of dental veneers
Porcelain Veneers – This is the most common material used for veneers. Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant and stronger than composite veneers and typically last longer. These veneers are made in a dental laboratory, so they require two dental visits to complete.
Composite Veneers – These veneers are applied directly to your teeth at the dental office, so they only require one visit.
Which type is right for you?
Here are some points for consideration. Your dental professional can help you decide which type would best suit your needs.
Longevity – Porcelain veneers have a longer lifespan, usually lasting at least ten years or longer. Composite veneers may only last five to seven years before needing to be replaced.
Cost – Porcelain veneers cost much more than composite veneers.
Lifestyle and diet – If you smoke or drink coffee, tea or wine, you might prefer the more stain-resistant porcelain veneers.
Strength – Porcelain veneers are stronger than composite veneers and are more resistant to chipping and breaking.
Aesthetics – Porcelain veneers tend to look more natural than composite veneers.
Preparation – To prepare your teeth for dental veneers, some of your tooth structure needs to be trimmed down. Porcelain veneers require removal of more of your natural tooth than composite veneers do. Due to this preparation of your teeth, dental veneers are considered permanent and are not reversible.
Time – Porcelain veneers require two separate dental visits while composite veneers can be completed in one visit.
What’s the process?
Consultation – The first step is to consult with a dental professional to discuss your dental concerns and what your goals are. Your dental professional will assess your oral condition, and together you can come up with a treatment plan that you are both comfortable with. As part of the assessment, dental x-rays may be needed.
Preparing your teeth for veneers – This step is usually done under local anesthetic. The dentist will remove enough tooth structure to be able to place the veneers. They will then take dental impressions (either digitally or with a rubbery material), and a mould will be made of your teeth. This will be sent to the dental lab that will be making your veneers. Temporary restorations will be put on your teeth until your veneers are ready. (If you are getting composite veneers, they will be applied directly to your prepared teeth during this dental visit).
Placing the veneers – Once the veneers are ready, you will return to have them cemented into place. Your dentist will first check them to make sure they are the perfect shape, fit and colour. Your new smile is complete!
How to care for your dental veneers
Daily brushing and flossing are essential since excellent oral hygiene will help to increase the lifespan of your dental veneers. Try to avoid abrasive toothpaste that may scratch your dental veneers and take care when eating hard foods to prevent chipping.
Dental veneers are only one option available for those who want to improve the aesthetics of their teeth. If you have any questions or wish to book a consult, call us today!
Beautiful Smiles Start Here!