What Are Dental Veneers and How Do They Work?
Dental veneers are custom-made thin shells that bond to the front of teeth. They provide an aesthetic solution to improve the look of chips, gaps, stains or poorly shaped teeth. Veneers alter tooth appearance while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.
Veneer Construction
Veneers consist of either porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers are stronger and mimic the light reflectivity of real teeth better. However composite veneers cost less. Veneers are specially fabricated for each patient using impressions of their actual teeth for accurate fitting.
Tooth Preparation
The teeth first get lightly buffed to create space for the veneer shells which need to be 0.3 to 0.7mm thick. A dental drill removes only about 0.5mm of enamel from the front and sides of the teeth requiring veneers.
Taking Impressions
After preparation, dental impressions get taken using a putty that hardens to capture an exact model of the teeth with veneers. These models allow creating properly contoured veneers.
Custom Veneer Fabrication
A dental technician uses the impressions to fabricate custom veneers from porcelain or composite resin based on your dentists specifications regarding shape and color to match surrounding teeth.
Bonding Appointment
At a follow up appointment, the dentist tries on the veneers to assess fit and color match before permanently bonding with a special adhesive. Adjustments get made until you have the desired aesthetic results.Benefits of Dental Veneers
There are several advantages to choosing how veneers work to improve tooth appearance and function:
Mask Imperfections
Veneers create uniform tooth color and shape to cover chips, gaps, stains, and worn enamel.
Whiter Smile
Stained or discolored teeth appear dramatically brighter with dental veneers.
Correct Position
Veneers can reshape uneven teeth and close annoying gaps.
Quick Process
It takes just 2-3 dental visits to complete veneers from start to finish.
Preserve Tooth Structure
Veneers allow altering color and shape while removing very little natural tooth matter.
Potential Drawbacks of Veneers
However, there are a few disadvantages to weigh up as well before choosing veneers:
Higher Cost
The price per veneer runs $925 to $2,500 so a full set gets expensive. Check your dental insurance coverage.
Temporary Sensitivity
Some sensitivity may occur after buffing teeth in preparation for veneers but dissipates.
Damage Risk
Dental veneers can chip or peel off due to trauma or improper care resulting in cracks and decay.
Replacement
Although durable, veneers last 5-10 years before needing replacement especially if you grind teeth.
Ideal Candidates for Veneers
You may benefit from veneers if wishing to:
- Hide cracked, worn down, or fractured teeth
- Close annoying gaps between front teeth
- Correct mildly crooked teeth without braces
- Resolve uneven sized or shaped teeth
- Get a brighter, whiter smile
Discuss your options with your dentist to decide if veneers suit your needs, budget, and lifestyle expectations.
Caring for Dental Veneers
Properly caring for veneers helps them last many years looking pristine. Tips include:
- Gentle daily tooth brushing and flossing
- Avoiding very hard, crunchy or chewy foods
- Wearing a nightguard if you grind teeth
- Seeing your hygienist regularly for cleanings
- Getting small chips in veneers fixed promptly
With proper oral care, dental veneers offer an easy cosmetic solution to enhance your smile for the long term.
Consulting a Cosmetic Dentist About Veneers
Schedule an initial consultation if considering how veneers work to improve the aesthetics of your smile. An experienced cosmetic dentist will discuss all your options to develop a customized treatment plan meeting functional and budgetary needs.
FAQs
Do veneers ruin your teeth?
No, veneers preserve most natural tooth structure since they require removing only 0.5mm of enamel. Properly cared for dental veneers do not damage teeth further or promote decay. But neglecting oral hygiene may still cause problems later.
Can veneers be done in one day?
While possible to complete in a single long appointment, most dentists fabricate veneers offsite at a dental lab which takes a few days. This allows carefully evaluating fit, shape and shade matching before precise bonding during a second appointment for best results.
Do teeth hurt after veneer procedure?
Patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity for a few days up to a week or two following veneer placement as the teeth adjust. Proper oral care helps sensitivity dissipate quickly. Significant or worsening discomfort warrants contacting your dentist.
How do I know if I'm suitable for veneers?
An initial dental exam helps determine if you make an appropriate candidate for veneers based on factors like your oral health, extent of cosmetic flaws needing correction, teeth alignment, gum and jaw relationships plus budget. Discuss options with your dentist.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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