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What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are coverings that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. High-quality dental materials, like tooth-colored composite or porcelain, are used to create them.

Dental veneers are a type of cosmetic dentistry. They can hide a wide range of aesthetic imperfections, including cracks, chips, gaps, tooth discoloration, and more.

How do dental veneers work?

Veneers cover the front surfaces of your teeth to enhance and perfect your smile. They work by camouflaging any cosmetic flaws you may have.

dental veneers

Who is a candidate for dental veneers?

Anyone who wants to enhance the appearance of their smile should explore veneers. These amazing dental restorations camouflage:

  • Chipped or broken teeth
  • Gaps and/or spaces in your smile
  • Stains that can’t be brightened with teeth whitening
  • Teeth that are too small or appear too tiny in your mouth
  • Misshapen teeth

Although dental veneers are a great option for most, you may not be a candidate if you have gum disease or a mouth full of fillings.  Also, if you have serious oral health issues, you will need to address those first before exploring various types of cosmetic dental treatments.

Veneers vs crowns: What’s the difference?

A porcelain veneer only covers the front surface of a tooth to enhance its appearance. A dental crown, on the other hand, covers the entire tooth structure to add strength and protection.

Dental veneers are a cosmetic treatment. They are used to improve your smile, but they don’t necessarily strengthen or repair your teeth. Dental crowns can improve the appearance of your teeth, but their main purpose is to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury.

Are there different types of veneers?

Yes. There are a few different types of veneers, including composite veneers, porcelain veneers, no-prep veneers, and removable veneers.

Composite veneers

Composite veneers can conceal mild cosmetic issues. Your dentist uses a tooth-colored composite resin which is the same material used when you have dental bonding.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers can address several aesthetic imperfections. These restorations are custom-made to fit your dental anatomy. Before placement, your dentist will remove some enamel from your natural teeth. This roughens your teeth surfaces and helps better adhere your new dental veneers, so they stay in place.

No-prep veneers

Prepless veneers are a less invasive option. Like traditional porcelain veneers, prepless veneers are custom-made for your smile. However, they require no drilling or grinding down of your teeth like the traditional veneers.

Prepless veneers aren’t right for everyone nor is everyone a candidate. Ask Dr. Stonisch if you’re a candidate.

Removable veneers

Removable veneers — also called pop-on veneers or snap-on veneers cover your natural teeth to hide imperfections. Like retainers, you can take removable veneers out anytime. Removable veneers can enhance your smile — but they can make it difficult to eat, and they could have a negative impact on your speech.

There isn’t a lot of research available on removable veneers because they’ve only been around for a few years.

What happens before dental veneer placement?

During your initial appointment, Dr. Stonisch will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you’re a good candidate for veneers. If you are, she’ll prepare your teeth depending on the type of veneers you will be getting. Next, impressions will be taken of your teeth. A dental lab technician will use these impressions to make your custom veneers.

It can take a few weeks for the dental lab to complete your veneers. Once the technician finishes your veneers, the lab will ship them to the Faircourt Dental Smile Studio.

What happens during veneer placement?

During a second office visit, Dr. Stonisch will check the shape, color, and fit of your veneers, then permanently bond them into place using dental cement. Finally, she’ll check your bite and make any necessary adjustments.

There’s no downtime following veneer placement. People who receive dental veneers can return to normal activities on the same day. You can also eat or drink immediately after your appointment, as long as the numbing has worn off.

Do dental veneers require special care?

Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly are all you need to do to keep your veneers in good working condition. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Avoid whitening products, as they can scratch your veneers.

To make your veneers last, you should also avoid biting directly into hard or crunchy foods like apples, carrots, and tough, chewy meats.

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but it’s still a good idea to avoid dark-colored foods and beverages, such as berries, red wine, coffee, and tea. These darker foods and drinks can stain your veneers over time.

RISKS / BENEFITS

What are the advantages of dental veneers?

Dental veneers offer several benefits. For example:

  • Veneers can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile
  • They blend in with your natural teeth for lifelike results
  • Veneers resist staining better than your natural tooth enamel
  • Dental veneers don’t require any additional maintenance
  • They have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years with proper care

What are the disadvantages of veneers?

Veneers also come with certain disadvantages. For example:

  • You can lose some of your natural enamel
  • Many types of veneers aren’t reversible
  • Your teeth may become more sensitive to heat and cold
  • It’s possible for a veneer to fall off or become dislodged
  • Dental veneers are cosmetic, so they’re not covered by most insurance

Do veneers damage your teeth?

No. Veneers don’t actively damage your teeth. However, it’s still possible for the natural tooth structure underneath to decay. Therefore, it’s important to brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings.

Are veneers permanent?

Most types of dental veneers are permanent, meaning they aren’t reversible. Although prepless veneers can be reversible.

On average, dental veneers last between 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK

How can I keep my veneers in good condition?

Here are some recommendations for keeping your veneers looking and feeling great:

  • Brush at least twice a day with a nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Floss between your teeth once daily
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash twice a day
  • Never use your teeth as tools such as opening packages or tearing off clothing tags
  • Visit your dentist for routine exams and cleanings

WHEN TO CALL DR. STONISCH

When should I see my healthcare provider?

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, dental veneers may be a solution. Talk to Dr. Stonisch about your cosmetic concerns and find out if veneers could work for you.

If you already have veneers and something doesn’t feel quite right, call the office as soon as possible.

Veneers are an excellent way to enhance your smile and boost your confidence.  They may be the perfect solution for you. Before you choose treatment, weigh the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. Talk to Dr. Stonisch about your specific cosmetic goals and find out if dental veneers are a good option for you.

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