Dental Veneers

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, dental veneers make a great choice. Veneers are thin shells that are attached to the front part of the teeth to correct issues like:

Worn or chipped teeth
Misshapen or crooked teeth
Large gaps between teeth or uneven spaces
Stained teeth that cannot be professionally whitened

There are two types of material available for dental veneers: composite and porcelain. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. The type that works best for you and your individual needs can be determined during your dental veneers consultation.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are individually crafted to fit onto teeth. Some of the benefits of porcelain include:

Durable and long-lasting
Has a very natural appearance
Highly resistant to becoming stained
Less tooth structure required to be removed than with a dental crown

If you’re going to receive dental veneers, your dentist will normally need to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to make room for them. They will create a mold of your teeth, and determine the best veneer shade for your teeth and smile.

The mold of your teeth is sent to a dental laboratory that will be custom-making your porcelain veneers, which could take a few days. In the meantime, your dentist will provide you with temporary ones.

At your next appointment, your dentist will actually place your porcelain veneers onto your teeth, carefully checking the fit and shape. If any adjustments are needed, they will make them at this time.

Finally, they will clean your teeth and bond your new porcelain veneers to your teeth.

Composite Veneers

Composite dental veneers are created using a putty-like material that is also used to create tooth-colored fillings. Some of the benefits of composite veneers include:

Less expensive than porcelain
Normally requires fewer dental visits
Less tooth enamel is required to be removed
Easily repaired when damaged, although they are not as strong as porcelain

Getting composite veneers is a bit more simple than with porcelain, normally taking only one dental visit. After preparing your teeth, your dentist will artfully sculpt the composite material onto your treated teeth. They will use a special light to “cure,” or harden the material. Finally, they will carefully smooth and polish your veneers so that they look just like natural teeth.

Dental Veneers: Best Candidates

Before receiving dental veneers, your teeth and gums must be in a healthy condition. If any treatments are needed, they must be performed prior to receiving veneers.

Although most people qualify for dental veneers, those that grind their teeth may not find veneers to be a good choice because veneers are quite thin and may break or chip.

Learn More About Customized Dental Veneers

Whether dental veneers make a good treatment choice for you and your unique needs can be determined at your initial consultation. Please reach out to us today to request more information or to schedule a consultation. New patients are always welcome!