If you’ve recently been looking into cosmetic dentistry to change your smile, you’re likely to have seen the word veneers pop up again and again. So what are they? Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are made from moulds and photos of your teeth, so they fit perfectly. They are attached over the top of your teeth and are used to improve your teeth’s appearance. They have become a popular choice to cover chipped, uneven, or worn-down teeth. Dentists typically offer veneers in pure porcelain or composite options.
Composite veneers are cheaper and only need one visit to apply. They are more prone to chipping and staining however and typically last 5-7 years. Porcelain veneers on the other hand are more expensive due to the material but tend to be the more popular choice due to a range of benefits. The porcelain reflects light in the same way as normal teeth, so they look more natural than composite veneers. They are also very stain-resistant meaning you can indulge in the coffee and tea without risking them losing their brightness. They’re more durable too which means they can last 10-15 years if they’re looked after well.
To keep your veneers in good shape, make sure you have a good oral hygiene routine brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist regularly. You should try not to chew on hard things such as pens and ice cubes to prevent damage. If you grind your teeth in your sleep or play sports make sure to use a mouthguard so your veneers aren’t damaged. Other than these small changes, you wouldn’t know you were wearing them and can just enjoy your refreshed smile.
The Benefits of Veneers
Cosmetic dentistry has become a popular branch of dentistry that incorporates many treatments. Of these procedures, veneers are one of the most popular. They are minimally invasive as with modern advancements the existing teeth need little preparation. This means they’re a first choice for many to cover cracked or wonky teeth. For heavily discoloured teeth, teeth whitening is unlikely to work so porcelain veneers can bring back a brightness to a smile in these cases. We’ve found that once these cosmetic issues are fixed, patients tend to have an increase in confidence. A smile is the first thing most people notice about each other so having one you’re proud of can be a huge boost.
How the Process of Changing Your Smile with Veneers Works?
First of all, your dentist will make sure you’re a good match for veneers. They work for most people with healthy gums and teeth, but if you have decay or severe misalignment that would make it difficult for the veneers to attach to these will probably need to be fixed before you move forward with veneers. In this first appointment, you can ask any questions and be honest about what you’d like to get out of the experience. You’ll then work with your dentist to decide the shape, colour, and look of your veneers before they take photos and moulds.
After removing a small amount of enamel to fit the veneers, if necessary, final impressions or 3D scans are taken and sent to the lab chosen to make your veneers to ensure a perfect fit. Once they’re made, you’ll come back in for fitting. They will be temporarily placed at first to make sure you’re happy. When you are satisfied with how they look, your teeth will be cleaned and polished then the veneers will be fixed with dental glue that’s hardened by a light. This appointment can take a while but it’s worth it when you see your new smile in the mirror for the first time.
Contact us here to get started with porcelain veneers.