Dental veneers are a cosmetic dentistry procedure that allows patients to correct imperfect smiles. Veneers can correct issues including stained teeth, uneven teeth, fractured or chipped teeth, misshapen teeth, and fill small gaps between teeth. Dental veneers may be placed on a single tooth or all teeth. Dental veneers typically last at least 10 years and may last much longer with excellent oral care. Here’s everything you need to know about dental veneers.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers use a thin shell made of either porcelain or composite. The shells are custom-made to fit your specific tooth or teeth. They cover the entire front (visible) part of your tooth and wrap slightly around the edges to create a natural look. Veneers are responsible for many of the megawatt smiles you see on your favorite celebrities.
Before your dental veneers can be permanently attached to your teeth, your dentist will remove a very thin layer of your dental enamel. This is done to make room for the shell that will be bonded to the tooth. This also means that getting veneers is a permanent decision. Once you have them, you’ll always need them.
Porcelain veneers are more durable than composite veneers. They are the most common material used in veneers, but they are also more expensive than composite veneers. However, porcelain veneers are mostly stain-resistant, so your bright beautiful smile will last. Composite veneers are more prone to staining, but they offer a noticeable smile upgrade that will last for 5+years, with proper care, including regular dental cleanings and oral exams.
How to Care for Dental Veneers
Dental veneers require the same oral care as natural teeth. You’ll need to brush at least twice a day, and floss daily. You should see your dentist for preventative screenings and cleanings at least twice a year.
Specific care should be given to the foods you eat. With veneers, you should avoid eating hard candies, nuts, and especially sticky foods such as taffy or caramel. Likewise, any dangerous habits need to be nixed. You’ll need to avoid chewing on pens, biting your fingernails, and chewing on ice. If you grind your teeth at night, see your dentist for a nightguard. You should also wear a mouthguard while engaging in sports or other potentially high-contact activities.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Veneers?
Patients with minor to moderate imperfections are typically good candidates for veneers. However, patients with seriously damaged teeth may need to consider alternatives, such as dental crowns. Likewise, because veneers affix to your existing teeth, they cannot replace missing teeth. Patients also need to be free from gum disease to be eligible for veneers.
Veneers are a very effective cosmetic solution for people wishing to correct:
- Stained teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Fractured teeth
- Small teeth
- Worn-down teeth
- Irregularly shaped teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Slightly crooked teeth
If you’re not an ideal candidate for dental veneers, talk with your dentist about other cosmetic dentistry options that may be more appropriate. There are a variety of solutions that may be available to correct imperfections and boost your self-confidence.
Schedule a Cosmetic Dentistry Appointment in Concord
Veneers are just one of many cosmetic dental treatments offered by Dr. Laurie Rosato in Concord. Dr. Rosato also provides teeth whitening, dental bonding, microabrasion, and dental crowns. To talk with Dr. Rosato about improving your smile, contact us today at 603-228-9276 or request an appointment online.