Popularly known as porcelain veneers, dental veneers are shell-like tooth structures specially designed to cover the front surface of the teeth to enhance your appearance. They work towards improving the shape, color, and size of the teeth. They have a special bond that enables you to stick them on your teeth.

Types of Dental Veneers

Currently, there are available in different types. Some are manufactured from resin composite materials, while others are from porcelain. Dental experts report that porcelain types work better compared to resin ones. Generally, dental veneers fix a wide range of dental issues. Some of these problems include:

Teeth discoloration:

More often than not, teeth get discolored due to excessive fluoride, unhealthy foods, and root canal treatment. Fortunately, veneers can help you fix this problem.

Broken or crooked teeth:

As mentioned earlier, veneers can help you fix the shape of your teeth. Consequently, they can restore a broken tooth.

How long does the veneer procedure take?

If you plan to get dental veneers, you need to go to the dentist at least thrice in a row. Usually, the first appointment is for consultation. Here, your dentist will advise you on the best types to use. Then, the next two consultations are for veneer applications.

Diagnosis and treatment planning

Upon your first consultation, your dentist will listen to all your requirements. Then, they will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth to determine whether veneers are your best option. Afterward, they will recommend the correct type and customize them according to the shape and size of your teeth. From there, they will proceed with the application.

Dental veneer application

The preparation process

When preparing your teeth for veneers, dentists will trim the enamel to reshape the teeth. Your dentist will often numb the area to ease the pain. After reshaping your teeth, your dentist will customize them that fit your teeth. Dental laboratories are responsible for manufacturing veneers, and this process usually takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks. However, your dentist may suggest using temporary ones in the process.

Application process

Once the veneers are ready, you will need to go back to the dentist for application. First, the dentist will place them on your teeth to see whether they fit. At this point, they will trim any excess part of the veneer. The main reason for doing this is to ensure you get the right veneer match for your teeth. Also, your dentists can change the color of the veneer using a particular cement shade.

Before placing the veneers on your teeth, your dentist will clean and polish your tooth. They will also etch your teeth to create a rough surface that will strengthen the bond between the tooth and veneer. After etching the teeth, the dentist applies a special cement bond on the surface. Then, they will carefully stick the veneer on top of your teeth. Next, the dentist uses a special light to make the bond harden quickly. Excess cement then gets removed from the teeth. At this point, the dentist will also make any adjustments to the veneer. When the application process is over, you will need to go for a follow-up dental visit after several weeks.

Advantages of dental veneers

• One of the main advantages of dental veneers is that it has a natural tooth appearance. With veneers, very few people will notice you have an oral device. Therefore, they improve your self-esteem and confidence.
• Typically, gums are very accommodative to porcelain. As a result, porcelain types are totally safe for your oral health. They won’t cause any irritation or discomfort to your teeth.
• Porcelain types are highly resistant to rust. Subsequently, they offer high durability. Porcelain ones are unlikely to experience discoloration.
• Dental veneers make your teeth appear whiter. Consequently, they make your smile more beautiful and improve your confidence.
• Unlike crowns, dental veneers do not need a lot of shaping. Your dentist will only trim and cut them when necessary. Also, they are much more robust compared to crowns.

How long do dental veneers last?

On average, they last for approximately seven to 15 years. After this time, you would need to replace them. Nevertheless, note that their durability depends on how you maintain them. If you take good care of your veneers, they are likely to last longer.

Dental Veneer Aftercare

Contrary to popular belief, dental veneers do not need any special aftercare. All you have to do is observe good oral hygiene practices. When you have them, ensure you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Use the right cleaning products and eat healthily. Also, avoid stain-causing foods like caffeine.

Are veneers worth the purchase?

At the end of the day, veneers are worth the purchase. Dental veneers help in fixing a wide range of dental issues. However, always consult your dentist on the best treatment option for your dental problem.