While veneers are an extremely popular cosmetic dental treatment to transform smiles, boost confidence, and enhance one’s overall appearance, many people do not know what the treatment entails, what to look out for, or where to start.
What Should I Be Aware Of?
Veneers are thin shells that are custom-made to fit over the front of your teeth with porcelain material. Even though they will provide a dramatic improvement to your smile, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand the process involved. Here are some key points to consider:
Consultation and Planning
Before you can get veneers you will have to go through a consultation and treatment planning to find out what is right for you. Impressions or imaging may be taken of your teeth so they can create a mock-up of your new smile.
Customization
Many people think veneers create a negative dramatic change to someone’s smile and can make it look flashy. When done well this is not the case, as porcelain veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely. The color, shape, and size of the veneers are tailored to match your natural teeth and enhance your overall facial aesthetics making your smile seamless, not clunky.
Shaping
Part of preparing your smile is shaping your teeth to ensure a good fit. Here is what to expect:
- Tooth Preparation: During this process, a minimal part of your tooth is removed from the front surface of your teeth. Only the necessary amount of tooth will be removed to make sure that they bond properly to your teeth. Since this step is irreversible, you need to be fully committed before this process.
- Temporary Veneers: If you want to escape the need for shaping, you can receive temporary veneers, this will give you a preview of the final look so you can make an educated decision while protecting your teeth in the meantime.
Veneers are customized to fit you. Our dentists are here to help you achieve your desired aesthetic, so give us a call if you have any questions about how veneers can change your smile.
Permanency
Due to the shaping, porcelain veneers are a long-term investment in your smile. Here are some considerations regarding their permanence:
- Durability: Not only are they designed to be long lasting, but the porcelain material allows for strength and durability, planning to last between 10 to 15 years or even longer.
- Maintenance: Similar to other treatments, you will need to maintain proper dental hygiene such as regular brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, avoiding staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, and limit habits such as biting on hard objects, grinding your teeth, or sustaining trauma to your mouth.
Requiring only the same maintenance as you need for your natural teeth, veneers are a low-impact way to create the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Do Veneers Have Any Limitations?
Porcelain veneers do offer many benefits, but there are some limitations to be aware of, such as:
Not a Solution for Major Dental Issues
They are primarily a cosmetic solution and are not recommended for individuals with severe dental issues such as large cavities, significant tooth decay, or gum disease. You will need to address these or other issues with your dentist before considering veneers.
Potential Sensitivity
In the first few weeks following the placement of veneers, some patients experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This sensitivity and the timeline are something to be aware of and consider.
Whitening Before Veneers
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant so you will need to whiten your teeth beforehand if you would like a certain shade of brightness. This will help ensure a more uniform color match between your natural teeth and the veneers.
The Next Step Is Scheduling an Appointment
Call our dental office today to schedule a consultation with our dentist to find out if porcelain veneers are right for you and to get started on a treatment plan.