Veneers
Veneers have been getting a lot more press lately. These custom-made sheets bond to the front of teeth to improve color, shape, and alignment, creating a more beautiful smile.
About Veneers
Veneers have been getting a lot more press lately. These custom-made sheets bond to the front of teeth to improve color, shape, and alignment, creating a more beautiful smile.
Types of Veneers
There are two main types of veneers:
- Porcelain veneers: These veneers are custom-made in a lab using high-grade ceramic. Porcelain veneers are strong, durable, stain-resistant, and closely match the appearance of natural teeth.
- Composite veneers: These veneers are made from a tooth-colored plastic material that a dentist bonds to the teeth. They're typically less durable and more prone to staining than porcelain veneers, but also more affordable.
Both types of veneers address concerns like stains, chips, and uneven teeth, providing a natural-looking result.
About Veneer Procedures
During the procedure, a dentist prepares the teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. Doing so helps the veneers fit properly. The dentist takes an impression of the teeth and applies composite veneers or sends the impression to a lab to make porcelain veneers.
Post-procedure, a patient should maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting on ice and other hard objects, and limit their consumption of beverages (like wine and coffee) and foods (like berries and soy sauce) that can cause stains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for veneers?
Proper care is essential to help your veneers last and look good as long as possible. First, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day (for two minutes each time) with a soft-bristle toothbrush and floss once a day. While flossing, be careful to slide the floss gently between your teeth to avoid loosening the veneers.
Try to avoid biting into hard foods like candy and nuts because they can chip your veneers. Also, don't open things with your teeth or chew on things like pens. Avoid foods and beverages that increase the risk of staining your veneers.
How long do veneers last?
You can expect your dental veneers to last around 10 years, depending on how well you care for them and additional factors. Eventually, veneer replacement will be necessary to maintain the visual appeal of your new smile.
Although more expensive, porcelain veneers are generally stronger and more resistant to chips, cracks, and staining.
Are veneers better than crowns?
Veneers and crowns are both options for improving your smile. Regarding the veneers vs. crowns debate, consider whether you want to address minor flaws or more significant tooth damage.
Generally, dental veneers are best for stains, chips, gaps, or misalignments in otherwise healthy teeth. Dental crowns are best for addressing issues like cracked teeth, significant decay, root canals, and large fillings. Crowns, in short, are more durable and comprehensive. Since crowns cover the entire top of the tooth, dentists must remove more enamel to install crowns than with veneers.
When should veneers be replaced?
With proper care, cosmetic veneers can last a long time, but not for eternity. Ask your dentist how long you can expect your veneers to last, and plan to replace them when that time comes.
In the meantime, look out for signs that you might need to replace your veneers early, such as:
- Darkening, discoloration or staining
- Cracks and chips
- Roughness around the edges
- Space between your gums and veneers
- Gaps or misalignment
- Discomfort or looseness of your veneers
- Other visible damage to your veneers
If you notice any of these signs, a restorative or cosmetic dentist can check your veneers and help you decide what to do next.
